The Funding Opportunities Update is prepared by the Commissioner's Office within the Region of Durham's Social Services Department. We recognize that a strong and well-resourced non-profit and charitable sector plays a vital role in meeting the needs of Durham's diverse communities. As part of this commitment, we share information about grant programs and funding opportunities that may be of interest to our community partners.

Please feel free to share this newsletter with your networks and contacts.

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If you would like to receive the Funding Opportunities Update or be removed from our mailing list, please contact us at funding@durham.ca.

Funding Resources

Visit our Funding Resources page for grant-writing tools, application resources, and information about funding opportunities that may become available between newsletter editions.

Important Tip!

Register your organization online at the Transfer Payment Ontario website. This site provides information about available grants, how to apply for grants and how to check the status of your application.

Do you struggle to find local data to support your grant applications?

Links to local data: You will find links to local Durham data on our Funding Resources page: Funding Resources - Region of Durham

Durham’s Vital Data Dashboard is an interactive platform where users can explore the indicators and data used as part of Durham’s Vital Signs and Durham Community Foundation's 2023 report, Together we Thrive.

Grant Connect: Durham Community Foundation is pleased to provide charities and non-profit organizations based in the Region of Durham and Northumberland County with the community license to Imagine Canada’s Grant Connect, a fundraising platform that connects organizations with funders who share their cause.

Community Data Program: The Community Data Program provides access to socio-economic data for small area geographies to help communities to measure and track local well-being. Neighbourhood level data is available including:

• Population and demographics
• Income, employment, and labour force data
• Housing and affordability indicators
• Health and well-being measures
• Equity-related indicators

Durham non-profit organizations with a local mandate can join the Durham Region consortium to gain access to the Community Data Program. Joining a consortium costs an annual $150 membership fee and provides access to an unlimited number of individual users. To register your organization with the Durham Region consortium, please visit: Create Member Organization | The Community Data Program

Find free webinars and other resources through the following sites:

• Invest Durham
• Imagine Canada
• Charity Village
• Community Foundations of Canada
• Ontario Nonprofit Network
• Ontario Trillium Foundation

Deadline: October 31, 2026

S'Cool Life Fund has funded over 1,200 projects over the years. We support DREAMS - Drama, Recreation, Extra-Curricular, Arts, Music, or Sports. Schools that have been successful in receiving a grant have amazed us with their applications for projects reaching the most children with the most interesting things. S'Cool does not look to fund core academic subjects, but instead those areas that fall outside of the core curriculum but are no less important for a child's development.  

What We Fund

Ideally, projects that leave a tangible legacy behind, can be used year-to-year and that reach the greatest number of students

Projects should be aligned with DREAMS- Drama, Recreation, Extra-Curricular, Arts, Music or Sports

What We Don't Fund

• Salaries and honorariums; instructor’s fees
• Playground
• School renovations / enhancements
• School trips, summer camps, one-day special events
• Transportation
• Short-term programs, courses, workshops.



Learn more...

Deadline: November 2, 2026

The Museums Assistance Program (MAP) supports heritage institutions and workers in the preservation and presentation of heritage collections. The program fosters the preservation of Indigenous culture and facilitates access to heritage collections for all Canadians. It also promotes professional knowledge, skills and practices related to key museum functions.

Indigenous Heritage

The Indigenous Heritage component supports the preservation, presentation and management of Indigenous cultural heritage in Canada. It also promotes public awareness and understanding of the diverse cultures of Indigenous Peoples.

Access to Heritage

The Access to Heritage component promotes access to heritage across different geographic regions of Canada. Eligible projects are related to travelling exhibitions, to assist heritage organizations in reaching new audiences.

Collections Management

• The Collections Management component aims to improve professional knowledge, skills and practices to strengthen professional standards related to key museum functions for collections management in Canada. It also supports the development and delivery of resources or services that will benefit multiple museums.

Learn more...

Deadline: November 4, 2026

OTF grants support the work of eligible non-profit organizations to help them deliver direct community-based programs and services in Ontario. Grow grants range from $100,000 to $600,000 over 2 or 3 years. Grants support established programs and services that have a proven track record of success and meet community need. Applicants can apply for funding to expand, improve or adapt an existing program or service.



The grant application period is from October 7, 2026 to November 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. ET.

Learn more...

Upcoming Meeting: November 10, 2026

Deadline to apply to present at upcoming meeting: November 4, 2026

Following in the footsteps of the Baagwating Community Association (BCA) which dissolved in 2016, the MSIFN Maada'ookii Committee continues to help organizations, communities, and individuals with charitable giving. In keeping with the spirit of the Committee's culture, Maada'ookii was chosen as it translates from Ojibwe to mean, 'they distribute gifts, distribute something, shares something with others'.

In an attempt to streamline all requests from individuals, authorized representatives, organizations, and sponsorship of organized sports, we have created three application forms available in a fillable format for your convenience:

• Medical Assistance
• Organizations Assistance
• Sponsorships

Each form consists of a checklist and guidelines of what the MSIFN Maada'ookii Committee would like to review when considering a request for assistance. Due to the high volume in applications received, only completed applications will be presented to the Committee.

Please note that if your request is approved by the MSIFN Maada'ookii Committee, those funds must be used within three (3) months of the approval date for the purpose intended or returned to the Committee for redistribution.

The MSIFN Maada'ookii Committee plans to meet once a month to review requests. The Meeting Schedule will be updated as needed, but may be subject to change without notice. Please send in requests at least 3 working days prior to the next scheduled meeting for inclusion, or it may not be presented until the next month's meeting.

Learn more...

Coming Soon: Applications open the first week of November

The City will fund: Activities, programs or initiatives that serve the residents of Pickering or provide an economic benefit to the City, or that create a positive image of the City.

First Time Applicants: For new applicants, the maximum grant amount that an eligible organization can receive is $3,000.

Who is Eligible



• Local Community Groups and Organizations
• That are Not for Profit
• That serves, in whole or in part, the residents of the City of Pickering
• At least 80% of the organization’s members reside in Pickering
• Regionally based organizations, if their services directly benefit Pickering residents
• Religious organizations, if their event or program is open to the public and conducted in public or commercial spaces

Learn more...

Deadline: November 6, 2026

The Great Lakes Local Action Fund provides project-based funding to enable community-based actions that increase climate change resiliency and protect or improve water quality in the Great Lakes ecosystem. Funding is available for projects taking place between January 1, 2027, and December 31, 2027.

The objectives of the fund are:

• Nature-based outcomes:
• Restore and protect wetlands, shorelines and habitat to strengthen resilience and support water quality and ecosystem function.
• Community innovation:
• Support scalable local solutions to basin challenges.
• Economic resilience:
• Support jobs and sustainable local economics as a co-benefit of the on-the-ground Great Lakes action, including through project delivery, partnerships and local capacity building.

Eligibility

• To be eligible for funding, the applicant must be a legal incorporated entity, such as:
• community-based incorporated organizations
• conservation organizations (such as non-governmental, not-for-profit, charitable corporations whose work focuses on environmental protection, conservation and restoration or both)
• Indigenous communities
• conservation authorities and their foundations
• municipal governments
• academic institutions including schools as represented by their school boards, universities and community colleges
• industry and non-profit associations or organizations

2026 call for applications

We are investing $1.8 million in the fourth round of funding for the Great Lakes Local Action Fund. Applications are now open to projects:

• of up to $100,000
• occurring between January 1, 2027, and December 31, 2027

The deadline to apply is 2 p.m. on November 6, 2026.

Apply online with Transfer Payment Ontario.

Learn more...

Deadline: November 15, 2026

One-time or multi-year donations and sponsorships that support grassroot initiatives in one of our host communities.

Grants generally range from $2k up to $10k.

Grants are open year-round and applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Application windows (annual): Requests will be reviewed and evaluated at the end of each application window.



• January 1 to March 31
• April 1 to June 30
• July 1 to September 30
• October 1 to November 15 (Applications close November 15)

Learn more...

Deadline: November 16, 2026

The First Nations Languages Funding Model — Indigenous Languages Component aims to facilitate the transition towards multi-year proposal-based and ongoing programmatic funding.

The objectives of the First Nations Languages Funding Model — Indigenous Languages Component are to:

• support the efforts of First Nations communities and First Nations-led organizations to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen their First Nations languages; and,
• create new First Nations language speakers, increase fluency, immersion opportunities, use of First Nations languages, and the documentation of all First Nations languages

The Indigenous Languages Component also contributes to the broader objectives of the Indigenous Languages Program with respect to First Nations languages.

Learn more...

Quarter Four Deadline: November 20, 2026

At Trillium Mutual we are proud of our strong legacy of community support over many years. We are committed to the sustainability of rural Ontario and we realize we have an opportunity to support programs that will foster the success of this responsibility. Trillium ROOTS Community Fund focus areas include:

Agriculture: Agriculture applications must benefit sustainability and development of the agriculture industry in Ontario

Mental Wellness: Mental Wellness applications must be one-time rural / agricultural projects or programs without government funding.

Healthcare: Healthcare applications must be capital in nature

Emergency Response: Applications must be capital in nature

Environmental/Sustainability: Applications must be capital in nature

Requests for funding are reviewed quarterly. We appreciate as much lead time as possible. The greater the advance notice we are given, the better decisions we can make regarding your application.

Learn more...

Deadline: December 2, 2026

The Species Conservation Program was created to encourage people and organizations to get involved in conserving species at risk and their habitats through stewardship activities. The program is part of Ontario’s track record of strong environmental stewardship, preserving the rich biodiversity of our province for future generations.

The program objectives include:

• preserving and rehabilitating habitat and enhancing other areas so that they can become habitat
• supporting public education and outreach programs relating to conservation
• supporting other activities to assist in the protection and conservation of species such as: direct threat mitigation, field-based surveys and monitoring, research and local and Indigenous knowledge collection

The fund is open to individuals and groups across Ontario, including:

• Academic institutions
• Conservation authorities
• Corporations
• Indigenous communities and organizations
• Individuals
• Municipal and local governments
• Non-government organizations

Applicants for land securement projects that involve the purchasing of land are further limited to the following types of entities:



• Conservation organizations (for example, non-governmental, not-for-profit, charitable corporations whose work focuses on environmental protection, conservation and restoration or both) that have acquired a property for conservation purposes in the past 5 years
• Indigenous communities
• Municipal governments

Learn more...

Deadline: December 3, 2026

Canada Summer Jobs helps strengthen your organization and empower the next generation. If approved, your organization can gain valuable wage subsidies that make it easier to hire motivated youth. You'll have the opportunity to enhance your team with fresh talent, reduce staffing costs, and create meaningful opportunities that help young people build skills and careers. It's a smart investment that grows your organization while supporting your community.

Funding amount:

Not-for-profit employers can receive funding for up to 100% of the provincial or territorial minimum wage and public and private sector employers are eligible to receive funding for up to 50%

Who can apply:

Employers from not-for-profit organizations and the public sector, as well as private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees across Canada

What this program offers:

Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) provides wage subsidies to support employers to create quality summer work experiences for youth aged 15 to 30

Youth employment period:CSJ-funded jobs must take place between April 19, 2027, and August 28, 2027

Learn more...

Coming Soon: Expressions of Interest open November 3, 2026 to December 15, 2026

MLSE Foundation’s grant funds are dedicated to supporting Ontario-based organizations who are using sport and recreation to build a more equitable tomorrow. The Community Action Grant enables us to grant up to $50,000 to organizations that are creating positive outcomes for youth.

Primary Focus

• Black youth
• First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth
• Women & Girl – identified youth (in the case of gender specific programming)

Emerging Focus



• Newcomer youth
• 2LGBTQ+ identifying youth
• Youth facing low-income barriers

Learn more...

Coming Soon: Housing stream opens December 1, 2026

The Catherine Donnelly Foundation operates with a two stage application review process:

1. Letter of Inquiry (pre-proposal inquiry) and an
2. Invited Applicant (full application process)

If you are successful with the Letter of Inquiry submission you will be invited to submit a full application through our on-line application portal.

The Catherine Donnelly Foundation Board currently reviews grant application requests twice yearly, in February and August, to determine successful applications based on the recommendations of its committees.

Housing



We seek projects that mobilize, engage and advocate for effective housing solutions through research, policy development, independent communication initiatives, capacity building and advocacy within the sector. 

Learn more...

Deadline: December 15, 2026

Founded by TD Bank Group in 1990, the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation (TD FEF) is a national charity that funds environmental projects across Canada. The Foundation supports a wide range of environmental initiatives, with a primary focus on environmental education and green space programs.



Eligible projects include schoolyard greening, park revitalization, community gardens, park programming and citizen science initiatives. For a full list, please see the Common Questions.

Learn more...

Deadline: December 17, 2026

The Seniors Community Grant Program helps local not-for-profit community groups and organizations deliver projects, supports and resources that help older adults (aged 55+):

• live independently
• live with safety and security
• stay connected to their community
• avoid isolation
• achieve greater financial security and social connections

Programming can be delivered either:

• remotely
• virtually
• in-person

Grants range from $1,000 to up to $25,000.

Since 2018, the Seniors Community Grant Program has supported over 2,450 projects in communities across Ontario.

Veterans Program Stream

Building on the government’s priority to improve the quality of life for Ontario’s veterans, the 2027–2028 Seniors Community Grant Program includes a program stream focused on funding projects that will positively impact senior veterans.

Applicants may be:

• incorporated not-for-profit organizations, municipalities and Indigenous governing bodies that can apply for up to $25,000
• individuals representing local, unincorporated seniors’ groups that can apply for a maximum of $10,000

Projects must involve older adults and meet at least one of the ministry’s key priorities outlined in the program guidelines.

Approved projects are anticipated to start by Summer 2027 and must be completed by March 31, 2028.

Learn more...

Deadline: December 22, 2026

The Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) is a $500 million program. Funding is available through two program streams for projects that:

• repair or upgrade existing sport and recreation facilities (Stream 1)
• build new and transformative sport and recreation facilities (Stream 2)

The CSRIF is a cost-shared program to:

• foster healthier and more active lifestyle for families
• make sport more accessible
• support local jobs
• help more communities across the province host local, national and international sporting events and competitions

Eligible applicants include:

• Municipalities
• Local services boards
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Indigenous communities and organizations
• For-profit organizations (Stream 2 only)



Learn more...

Deadline: January 8, 2027

We fund community-led, not-for-profit initiatives that help people access jobs, stable housing, and support to start or grow a small business. These three focus areas reflect our belief that opportunity is the foundation of financial strength.

We support initiatives that create measurable outcomes for the people and communities they serve. Examples of initiatives that may align with our focus areas include:

Jobs & workforce development

Initiatives that help people start new jobs, build skills, find meaningful work, and prepare for a changing world of work, such as:

• Job-specific skills training and certifications.
• Job readiness and workforce preparation programs.
• Resume writing and interview preparation.
• Financial education and budgeting programs.
• Technology and digital skills development.
• Skilled trades training and apprenticeships.

Housing affordability

Initiatives that help people access and maintain stable housing, such as:

• Affordable housing for rental and ownership.
• Supportive housing and wraparound services.
• Transitional housing.
• Financial education and budgeting programs.
• Housing preservation.
• Eviction and foreclosure prevention.

Entrepreneurship and small business support

Initiatives that help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses, such as:

• Business planning and strategy development.
• Financial education and business fundamentals.
• Technical assistance and access-to-capital supports.
• Marketing and business communications training.
• Professional networking and mentorship opportunities.
• Technology adoption and digital business tools.



We have four deadlines per year: January 8, 2027, April 9, 2027, July 9, 2027, October 8, 2027

Learn more...

Coming Soon: For events starting between August 1, 2027 to November 30, 2027 - The application intake period will take place from January 13, 2027, at 8 am (ET) to February 24, 2027, at 4 pm (ET)

The Events component of the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) provides funding to community-based events that:

• promote intercultural or interfaith understanding
• promote discussions on multiculturalism, diversity, racism and religious discrimination
• celebrate a community’s history and culture such as heritage months recognized by Parliament

Expected results are that participants and communities will gain knowledge, develop strategies and take action to:

• increase awareness of Canada’s cultural diversity
• increase awareness of issues affecting full participation in society and the economy, related to culture, ethnicity and/or religion
• increase capacity within communities to address racism and discrimination.  

To be eligible for funding, your event must contribute to the Program’s objectives as well as the component’s objectives and expected results. Your proposed event must also:

• establish concrete opportunities for positive interaction among cultural, religious or ethnocultural communities
• demonstrate involvement of more than one single cultural, religious or ethnocultural community or target a single cultural community and provide opportunities to engage with and foster pride in the community’s history, culture and/or identity, such as heritage months recognized by Parliament
• help foster intercultural or interfaith understanding
• be open to and intended for the general public



Learn more...

Apply Now: Applications open until funds are exhausted

The Indigenous Peoples Resilience Fund (IPRF) is a fund that is built upon the resiliency of, and guided by Indigenous Peoples to support Indigenous communities and organizations through the current public health crisis.

Wildfire Relief Bundle

First Nations communities across Canada are facing devastating wildfires that are forcing families from their homes, threatening traditional territories, and disrupting connections to land, culture and community.

In response, the Indigenous Peoples Resilience Fund is providing emergency funding to First Nations affected by wildfires and Indigenous-led organizations already offering frontline support to evacuated First Nation members. You can apply for up to $30,000.

IPRF has $1 million available for wildfire relief. We know this is only a small part of what communities need. Please ask for what you need most urgently so that we can support as many of our relatives as possible during this difficult time.

All funding must go directly toward immediate community relief and support. Funding cannot be used for administration.  

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. A member of the IPRF team may contact you by phone if we need more information. 

Learn more...

No posted deadline

As a legacy of hosting the Durham Region 2023 Ontario Parasport Games, the Region of Durham has partnered with Durham Community Foundation to establish two funds to support parasport activities, programs, equipment and events offered within the Region of Durham.

Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing

We value the strong and meaningful partnerships that we continue to build with Indigenous communities across Ontario and strengthen these relationships through ongoing collaboration.

To support this work, we offer a year-round grant open to all Indigenous communities and organizations supporting initiatives that strengthen cultural, social, environmental and economic well-being.

Eligible community-driven projects and programs may receive up to $25,000 in funding. Smaller-scale funding is also available for local events, gatherings and cultural celebrations.   

Examples of eligible projects

• Cultural, ecological and heritage preservation
• Community safety and emergency preparedness
• Education, training and capacity building



Learn more...

Deadline: Apply Now

Starter Company Plus Program is for existing business owners operating between 1 to 3 years (market ready/ready to sell), to expand (hiring employees, contractors or getting a location) or buying a business in Durham Region.

The Program provides:

• The program has 3 mandatory training days over 2 weeks (9:00am – 3:00pm) covering Business Concept, Organization, Operations and Customer Relations
• The chance to receive up to $5,000 in seed funding to kick off a new business or expand your current business
• The experience of running a successful business that may help you obtain more traditional financing such as a bank loan if you so require in the future

This program is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.



Learn more...

Notice: MCDF Community Fund applications are closed for 2026 due to the election year

**Silent Auction applications will still be considered

The next intake for the Community Fund and Lead Grants will open in 2027. Please check back for updates.

The Mayor's Community Development Fund (MCDF) offers funding to local initiatives in our community through Lead Grants up to $25,000 and community grants up to $5,000.

The funding is raised through two events, The Mayor's Gala and the Mayor and Council's Golf Tournament. Up to 50% of the proceeds raised by the fundraisers will be awarded to a Lead cause or charity. The balance will be awarded in smaller community grants.

MCDF Lead Grants are causes or organizations identified as the primary beneficiary of the Mayor and Council’s Golf Tournament and Mayor’s Fundraiser through grant funding of up to 50% of the funds raised to support a major community initiative (capital or program) benefiting the community. Lead Grant applications are reviewed once a year, with an application due date of March 31.

MCDF Community Grants are up to $5,000 and are accepted on a continuous basis and reviewed monthly. Please note that for 2026, Community Grant applications were accepted in January, February, and March only, with the final due date of March 31, 2026.

If you apply, you can also request one of the following silent auction item packages:

• Whitby/Brooklin Retailer Gift Basket ($150 value)
• Whitby Recreation Gift Certificate ($250 value)

Learn more...

Deadline: Open by invitation. If you wish to discuss a proposal idea, please contact our team.

One-time or multi-year donations and sponsorships that provide province-wide benefit in Ontario and support the areas and people where we operate. 

Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing

The Honda Foundation supports registered non-profit charities that strive to make the lives of Canadians better with a focus on Education, Environment, Mobility, Traffic Safety and Community. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.



Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing

We're looking to support community projects that contribute to the vitality of our communities by getting our community leaders involved. That's why we invest in organizations working in the areas that matter most to you:

• Academic success and training
• Employment and labour force
• Entrepreneurship and business succession
• The environment
• Excellence and innovation hubs
• Health and healthy lifestyles
• Housing and local services
• Humanitarian work and community involvement
• Sports, recreation, art, culture and tourism

Eligibility

The projects submitted must:

• Be socioeconomic in nature and be both impactful and sustainable
• Meet a demonstrated community need
• Be consistent with one of the following focus areas:
• Develop a service offer from an existing or future organization
• Consolidate an organization's service offer through a significant change of scale
• Consolidate the service offer of one or more organizations by adapting the business model (pooling or merger)
• Have a significant and lasting impact on people and communities, in terms of benefits generated and financial sustainability
• Be in line with the principles of sustainable development and Desjardins's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• Have a regional or provincial scope in Quebec or Ontario
• Focus on the best interests of the community, not the project sponsor

Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing - Applications accepted on a rolling basis.



The Ontario Transit Investment Fund (OTIF) provides annual funding of $5 million to deliver local and intercommunity transportation projects in unserved and underserved areas in Ontario, particularly in rural areas.

OTIF provides time-limited, application-based funding for up to 5 years to support the start-up and growth of transit services across the province. Through OTIF, the province is providing eligible communities with the support they need to build safe and reliable transit services.

Eligible applicants are municipalities, non-profit organizations and Indigenous communities.



Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing - Continuous intake until funding is fully allocated



The Skills Development Fund (SDF) Capital Stream offers funding to eligible organizations to:

• build new training centres.
• upgrade existing training centres.
• convert an existing building into a training centre.

The following organizations are eligible to apply to the SDF Capital Stream as a primary applicant:

• employers in Ontario (other than the educational organizations listed as being eligible to apply as partners).
• minister-approved, non-college apprenticeship program training delivery agents.
• non-profit organizations including Indigenous band offices and Indigenous Skills and Employment Training agreement holders.
• professional, industry or employer associations.
• trade unions or union-affiliated organizations.
• municipalities.
• hospitals.
• District Social Services Administration Boards.
• Consolidated Municipal Service Managers.

The following educational organizations are eligible to apply to the SDF Capital Stream as a partner with one or more of the eligible primary applicant organizations:

• district school boards.
• publicly assisted colleges, universities or Indigenous Institutes in Ontario.
• career colleges.
• private universities with consent from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to offer degrees.



Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing



The Museums Assistance Program (MAP) supports heritage institutions and workers in the preservation and presentation of heritage collections. The program fosters the preservation of Indigenous culture and facilitates access to heritage collections for all Canadians. It also promotes professional knowledge, skills and practices related to key museum functions.

Exhibition Circulation Fund - Ongoing

The Exhibition Circulation Fund component assists museums with the costs of hosting travelling exhibitions originating from another Canadian non-profit organization, an Indigenous organization, or from a federal heritage institution, and borrowing artefacts for exhibition purposes from a federal institution.



Learn more...

Deadline: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

Maytree is committed to advancing systemic solutions to poverty and strengthening civic communities. We believe the most enduring way to keep people out of poverty is to reimagine and rebuild our public systems to respect, protect, and fulfill the economic and social rights of every person in Canada.

We welcome proposals from registered charities and community-based, non-profit organizations that have an explicit mandate to reduce poverty and build strong civic communities by advancing economic and social rights in Canada.

Please contact info@maytree.com with any questions.

Learn More...

Ongoing: Organizations must start the application process approx. eight months prior to an event. Next Stage 2 Deadline: September 4, 2026

OCAF provides Ontario cultural organizations with investment to increase cultural tourism, earned revenue, private sector sponsorship, economic growth and job creation. OCAF has three specific aims:

• to increase cultural tourism by providing investments to assist Ontario cultural organizations to promote, market and present one-off or first-time events, or a significant expansion of existing activity, which are designed to attract new tourists and visitors to cultural events;
• increase the earned revenue capacity of the applicant organization; and
• support events that foster economic growth and contribute to job creation.

First time applicants, and those requiring further information or assistance with the application, should contact OCAF staff prior to submitting a stage 1 application. Organization must start the application process approximately eight months prior to an event.

OCAF has a two-stage application process which ensures that organizations do not dedicate significant time, effort and resources to an ineligible project.

First time applicants, and those requiring further information or assistance with the application, should contact OCAF staff prior to submitting a Stage 1 application There is no deadline for Stage 1 applications, but organizations must start the application process approximately eight months prior to an event.

Stage 2 applications should be assessed by the OCAF Board approximately three to six months prior to an event. Please contact Thomas Vaughan at tvaughan@ocaf.ca to discuss the eligibility of your event

Learn More...

Open Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round

FCC Community Funding is one way we help enhance communities where our employees and customers work and live. Eligible applicants can apply for up to $10,000 in FCC Community Funding annually and applications are accepted year-round. Funding is primarily directed to rural community projects; however, applications for urban projects will also be considered, with a focus on Regina, where FCC's head office is located. Partial funding may also be offered.

Eligible for Funding: Initiatives or capital purchases focused on:

• Food security: organizations or programs addressing issues around food insecurity
• Well-being: supporting the physical or mental health of those working in the Canadian food system
• Education and food literacy: education for people about agriculture and food; creating understanding of production practices and careers in the industry
• Public trust in agriculture and food: promoting the Canadian food system
• Community enhancements: making a difference where our employees and customers live and work

Learn More...

Deadline: Ongoing

Our climate strategy is grounded in the understanding that reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is essential to addressing climate change at its source. We prioritize initiatives that can deliver tangible, measurable reductions, and scale these reductions across systems, sectors, and communities.

While mitigation remains the primary focus, we are also interested in efforts to support climate resilience, especially in tandem with mitigation, to build a climate-secure future.

Types of Initiatives:

• Low-Emission & Renewable Technologies
• Nature-Based Solutions
• Green Building & Living
• Community & Climate Resilience
• Climate & Health

Learn More...

Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis

As part of our commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada, the Peter Gilgan Foundation dedicates funds to reducing barriers and uplifting opportunities and wellbeing for Indigenous young people. Informed by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as well as the guidance of community leaders who generously share their wisdom and worldviews, we strive to ensure:

• Our objectives centre Indigenous self-determination.
• Our approach remains rooted in relationship.
• Our leadership emerges with humility.

We strengthen both direct youth services and the wider ecosystem of Indigenous-led organizations across Canada, recognizing that reconciliation requires long-term commitment, listening, and trust-based relationships. Our focus areas reflect this commitment and the interconnected social, cultural, and economic dimensions of youth wellbeing.

• Housing & safe spaces.
• Health & healing.
• Education & knowledge.
• Economic opportunity & building capacity.
• Food security & sovereignty.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis with no fixed deadline, so you can apply any time. Submissions are reviewed every other month, and applicants are typically notified of outcomes within approximately 8 to 12 weeks. If your proposal is unsuccessful, please wait 12 months before reapplying.

Learn More...

Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis



We believe that all children, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, deserve opportunities to thrive. The Children, Youth & Families program partners with organizations that break down barriers, open up opportunities, and provide comprehensive, integrated solutions rather than fragmented approaches. By valuing lived experience, supporting community-rooted leadership, and prioritizing measurable impact, the program seeks to advance equity and create lasting change for youth and families.

There are four funding streams:

Children & Youth Mental Health

We support organizations that make mental health care more accessible, timely, and responsive for children and youth. Our focus is on breaking down barriers that prevent young people from getting help, while ensuring services are delivered by licensed professionals in ways that reflect the communities they serve. The outcomes we strive to support include: 

• Improved coping skills and resilience in children and youth. 
• Reduced waiting times for children and youth to access clinical and/or therapeutic services. 
• Increased access to culturally appropriate, community-based care models.

Education & Economic Opportunities

We support organizations that open doors for young people, helping them move from adolescence to independence with confidence and opportunity. Our focus is on approaches that build lasting pathways—supporting students to graduate high school, pursue post-secondary education, and connect with meaningful employment or entrepreneurship. We also support work that provides routes to good jobs and entrepreneurship for mothers and caregivers. The outcomes we strive to support include: 

• Increased high school graduation and access to post-secondary for underrepresented youth.
• Established routes to good jobs and entrepreneurship for youth and for family caregivers. 

Food Security & Systems

Food insecurity is one of the strongest social determinants of health, linked to long-term negative and chronic health outcomes. We aim to increase access to high-quality, culturally relevant food while promoting dignity, choice, and stability. We support approaches that go beyond emergency food relief and instead create sustainable systems that improve health and opportunity for children, youth, and families at the highest risk of food insecurity. The outcomes we strive to support include: 

• Improved school food programs in Ontario and Alberta.
• Expanded access to fresh, culturally appropriate food in underserved neighbourhoods through public markets and urban agriculture.
• Reduced waste of high-quality food through food rescue and redistribution .

GTA communities

We support grassroots organizations in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) that are building stronger, more inclusive communities.

PLEASE NOTE: the 2025/2026 application round of GTA Communities is closed. Please check back in the fall for updated information on the 2026/2027 call for applications.

Grant Types

We offer three types of grants through the Children, Youth & Families program:

• Project grants.
• Capacity-building grants.
• General operating grants.

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Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis

RBC is investing in communities with a collaborative approach. This approach aims to respond to community needs and aligns with RBC’s ambitions to support the transition to a net-zero economy, equip people with skills for a thriving future and drive more equitable opportunities for prosperity.

We aim to support impactful initiatives across Canada, and value community investment partnerships built on trust and shared commitments. Recognizing that communities and/or projects need support for different purposes at different times, our approach to funding considers ideas and actions at four distinct stages:

Seed: Help initiate and develop new ideas or projects, focusing on innovative and experimental approaches.

Scale: Help expand and grow successful projects, increasing their reach and/or impact.

Sustain: Help maintain and support ongoing projects to help ensure long-term success and stability.

Build: Help increase physical accessibility and/or environmental sustainability of community spaces.

Funding priorities

Support the transition to a net-zero economy: To reflect the interconnectedness of climate change and biodiversity loss, we intend to support projects that help:

• Advance climate change mitigation solutions that help reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs), boost energy efficiency and/or promote decarbonization, particularly in the highest emitting sectors and/or

• Advance nature-based solutions that work with nature, given its inherent ability to sequester carbon and contribute to climate adaptation and ecosystem resilience, or

• Increase environmental sustainability of community spaces by funding capital improvements to reduce the carbon footprint or increase energy efficiency of a newly constructed building, or an existing space

Equip people with the skills for a thriving future: To help those within and beyond our workforce develop skills to thrive, we intend to support projects that help:

• Build in-demand skills for the jobs of tomorrow by providing opportunities in sectors including the cultural and creative, to gain the skills and knowledge needed to support career preparedness and progression

• Grow career potential through work experience to enable quicker integration and connection to diverse roles that help better position people for future job opportunities

• Create pathways for people to upgrade industry-specific qualifications to help increase their employability and help reduce the time to transition from one sector or job to another

Drive more inclusive opportunities for prosperity: To drive more inclusive opportunities for prosperity, we intend to support projects that help:

• Create stability by addressing food security, housing stability, and access to health service

• Increase financial wellbeing by helping people build financial confidence and manage their current and future financial situations

• Increase accessibility of community spaces by funding the physical accessibility of a newly constructed building, or retrofit of an existing space

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Deadline: Applications are reviewed throughout the year

ScotiaRISE is our 10-year, $500 million initiative to promote economic resilience among disadvantaged groups. By working together to remove barriers to advancement and increase access to opportunities, we can create a more inclusive and resilient world for everyone - and for every future.

Scotiabank will consider funding for:

• Organizations that are either registered charities or non-profit organizations in their jurisdictions.
• Organizations that operate in countries where Scotiabank does business.
• Organizations with a sustained record of achievement.
• Programs that have measurable impact.

Your application must include:

• A brief description of the organization, including goals and achievements.
• A full description of the project for which you are requesting funding, including budget, expected outcome, benefits to end users, defined metrics and recognition plan.
• Complete list of Board of Directors, Executive Management and Campaign Cabinet if applicable.
• Current financial statements.

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Deadline: CIBC Foundation requests are accepted year-round, but are reviewed annually between March and October.

Built on our longstanding history of supporting our communities, the CIBC Foundation serves our commitment to creating a world without limits to ambition. Focus areas and funding guidelines:

Supporting cancer initiatives

Our ambition: To create a future where no one has to fear a cancer diagnosis.

We invest in:

• Cancer research, treatment, screening and diagnosis.
• Wellness, survivorship and patient support programs.

Championing inclusive communities

Our ambition: To create social and economic opportunities for all.

We invest in:

• Projects increasing access to education and employment outcomes for underserved communities, with a focus on reskilling, upskilling, and addressing the digital divide.
• Healthy active living, education & enrichment, and help for high needs kids supporting children 13 and under.

Investing in financial education

Our ambition: To ensure everyone has the skills, knowledge, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of financial wellbeing.

We invest in:

• Financial education resources and learning opportunities.

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Application Deadline: Ongoing

The Economic Development Initiative (EDI) is part of Canada's Action Plan for Official Languages 2023-2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration, which reaffirms our government's commitment to official languages.

EDI helps address the economic challenges and builds on the strengths of each region to facilitate growth in official language minority communities. Through EDI, FedDev Ontario is helping Francophone communities in southern Ontario grow their economies.

Eligible applicants are incorporated Francophone or bilingual not-for-profit organizations located in southern Ontario that provide programs or services in French to Francophone communities, including:

community and economic development organizations

not-for-profit organizations and associations

post-secondary institutions that offer full-time programs in French

What types of projects are eligible?

Economic Development and Diversification: Projects that respond to the needs of Francophone communities, including implementing region-specific growth strategies. Priority may be given to projects related to women, youth, clean technology, the social economy (early childhood, integration of newcomers, etc.), and tourism.

Business and Economic Development: Projects that respond to the needs and foster the economic growth of industry sectors (e.g., manufacturing, information technology). This includes activities that increase business management capacity, reskill or train workers or adopt digital technologies.

Strategic Community Economic Planning: Projects that enhance the economic base and competitiveness of Francophone communities and small- and medium-sized enterprises.

Projects must focus on incremental activities and must increase the services and/or products of an organization above and beyond the organization's current day-to-day operations or already funded activities.

Ready to find out more? Reach out to edi-ide@feddevontario.gc.ca or call 1-866-593-5505 for more information on eligibility.

How to apply: Contact one of our bilingual officers by email or at 1-866-593-5505 at any time for more information and to receive an application form.

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Find out what funding is currently available from the Government of Ontario, if you’re eligible and what you need to apply.

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All program area grants are accessible through their portal and registration must be complete at least 30 days before you wish to apply.

Canada Council grants are now organized into six programs:

1. Explore and Create;
2. Engage and Sustain;
3. Creating, Knowing and Sharing: The Arts and cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples;
4. Supporting Artistic Practice;
5. Arts Across Canada;
6. Arts Abroad.

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Deadline: Varied

Apply for National Housing Strategy or other CMHC funding to build or renovate affordable housing.

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Find funding opportunities for business and not-for-profit organizations in southern Ontario.

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The Government of Canada offers a wide array of granting opportunities around culture, history and sport. See an alphabetical listing of grants available here.

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See a list of funding programs for jobs, training and social development projects.

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Grant and Contribution Funding Opportunities for programs under the Public Health Agency of Canada.

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Innovation Canada offers an online search tool that allows companies to search for relevant funding. 

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Find information and supports for starting a business in Durham Region.

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The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) provides grants to Ontario-based individual artists and arts professionals, ad hoc groups/collectives and organizations. Grants support a range of arts activities and disciplines.

The OAC offers two types of grant programs:

Project grants – one-time grants for specific projects, available to individual artists, ad hoc groups/collectives and organizations.

Operating grants – ongoing support for Ontario-based, not-for-profit arts organizations and for-profit book and magazine publishers.

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The Funding Portal is a subscription-based national bilingual e-commerce platform and gateway to improve access to government funding. The Portal aggregates thousands of sources of funding within a searchable database.

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