Grants for Community-Led Innovation and Early-Stage Projects in Ontario (Canada)
GrantID: 74093
Grant Funding Amount Low: $10,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $100,000
Summary
This grant is available across Ontario and offers flexible funding to help community-focused nonprofits, Indigenous groups, small municipalities, and collaboratives build their future. The awards range from $10,000 to $100,000, and projects can span 6 to 12 months. Intended to strengthen organizational capacity, the funds support initiatives such as strategic planning, piloting new programs, adapting technology, and enhancing staff or volunteer skills. Organizations can use the grant to invest in digital upgrades—like new software, hardware, or cloud solutions—aligning with priorities to foster innovation and resilience.
Applicants must be not-for-profit entities operating in one of four sectors: sports and recreation, arts and culture, environment, or human and social services. They should have show sound financial health, and demonstrate organizational readiness. Eligible groups include charities, incorporated nonprofits, First Nations, small municipalities (population under 20,000), library boards, Métis and Inuit organizations, and religious charities offering non‑religious community services. Larger municipalities and for-profit organizations are not eligible.
The grant cycle opens in summer, with a deadline in August. The goal is to enable organizations to test ideas, improve operations, and deliver more impactful community programs.
Previously, this organization has invested around $16 million across approximately 245 seed grants, aiding groups in areas like community connections, youth development, arts engagement, active living, environmental restoration, and economic stability.
In short, this opportunity is perfect for smaller Ontario nonprofits, Indigenous communities, or municipal agencies aiming to lay the groundwork for future programs—whether through planning, capacity building, technology upgrades, or pilot initiatives—with funding designed to spark innovation and lasting community impact.
If you are located in Ontario and working in the area of Social Justice, this funding opportunity may be a good fit. For more relevant grant options that support your work and priorities, visit The Grant Portal and use the Search Grant tool to find opportunities.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
