Durham Non-Profit Network

Funded by: Ontario Trillium Foundation

Table of Contents

Project Summary
Key Project Advisors
Acknowledgements
We’re On Our Way
Download Reports

Webinars and Workshops
Shared Software and Technology Information
Durham Non-Profit Recovery Network Working Group

Funding Opportunities
Recovery and Transition Planning Resources

Project Summary

From 2020 to 2021, Community Development Council Durham (CDCD) coordinated the Durham Non-Profit COVID-19 Recovery Project to better understand what resources and supports were needed to help non-profit organizations in the Durham region navigate the immediate and long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, Durham non-profits came together to provide recommendations on the supports needed to facilitate the sector’s recovery during and post-pandemic. The Durham Non-Profit Recovery Network (DNRN) aims to support Durham non-profits in their recovery and resiliency-building. This project was funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

Land Recognition

Community Development Council Durham (CDCD) is located on the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee, and Mississauga (Anishinaabe), on land ceded in the Williams Treaty of 1923 by the governments of Canada and Ontario and by seven First Nations of the Chippewa of Lake Simcoe (Beausoleil, Georgina Island, and Rama) and of the Mississauga of the north shore of Lake Ontario (Scugog Island, Alderville, Curve Lake, and Hiawatha). In Durham, we live and work on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. As settlers, we are grateful for the opportunity to meet here, and we thank all the generations of people who have been stewards of this sacred land.

Learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Report, and how we can all use its principles in building a more equitable and just society.

Project Funded By
Ontario Trillium Foundation

CDCD logo

Project Lead
Community Development Council Durham

Acknowledgements

Thank you

  • Nathan Gardner, Former Team Lead, Community Development, CDCD
  • Neemarie Alam, Former Lead Social Researcher, CDCD
Logo - Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation
Logo - Durham Children and Youth Planning Network
Logo - Durham Community Foundation
Logo - United Way Durham Region

Organizations that participated as Key Informants

  • AIDS Committee of Durham Region
  • Boys and Girls Club of Durham
  • Feed the Need Durham
  • Oshawa Seniors Community Centre
  • Salvation Army
  • Scientists in School
  • Their Opportunity
  • Whitby Chamber of Commerce
  • Women’s Multicultural Resource & Counselling Centre

Stakeholders who participated as Orientation Informants

  • Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade
  • Community Development Council Durham
  • Durham Community Foundation
  • Municipality of Clarington
  • Region of Durham
  • Town of Ajax

Focus Group Participants

  • 1855 Whitby-Technology Accelerator
  • A Gift of Art
  • Bowmanville Older Adults Association
  • Community Care Durham
  • Community Justice Alternatives of Durham Region
  • Durham Association for Family Resources and Support
  • Durham Children’s Aid Foundation
  • Gate 3:16 Outreach Centre
  • John Howard Society of Durham Region
  • Precious Minds Support Services

We extend our thanks to our funders, governments, and community leaders for their continued guidance, efforts, and insights. Without their collective efforts, the non-profit sector would not have been able to respond to community demands and needs. Their support, and willingness to provide and partner is deeply appreciated.

We extend a special thank you to the Region of Durham, and our Key Project Advisors, Durham Community Foundation and United Way Durham Region, for supporting this project, and for all the important work they have done and continue to do to support the sector.

We also extend a special thank you to Ontario Trillium Foundation for funding this report, and believing in a project like ours.

Finally, we wish to acknowledge all the non-profits in Durham Region for continuing to do an incredible job against all odds. We know that this past year has been difficult for so many, and that you likely struggled to bring your best selves to the communities you have served.

Thank you for your creativity, strength, and continued existence.

You are needed and necessary. We see your hard work, and we hope you see yourself reflected in this report.

We’re On Our Way

Supporting Durham’s Non-Profit Sector through (and post) the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Durham COVID-19 Non-Profit Response project includes a sector survey, reporting, and action plans to help agencies and charities plan for the future. In April 2020, Community Development Council Durham (CDCD) conducted a survey to better understand what resources and supports were needed to support non-profit organizations in the Durham Region, with the intent of mapping the immediate and long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following CDCD’s initial report on the impacts of COVID-19 on the non-profit sector, an advisory group of five key stakeholders was drawn together to support the second phase of the project. The project team hosted 2 focus groups with 12 non-profit stakeholders, 10 key informants, and 6 orientation informants

This report hopes to continue the narrative that Durham’s non-profit sector is complex, interwoven, and important as recovery strategies and drafted and implemented.

Key Point 1

  • COVID-19 highlighted existing infrastructural challenges in Durham Region’s non-profit sector.

Key Point 2

  • Durham’s non-profit sector collaborates often for project delivery and to address issues specific to a particular sub-sector but there is little to no collaboration for sector-wide convening and planning.
    Barriers to sector-wide collaboration include competitive funding structures and limited resources.

Key Point Three

  • Governments and private investors must intentionally find new ways to ensure non-profit engagement and participation with a multitude of voices.

Webinars and Workshops

Now What? Getting Ready for the New Roaring 20s
Presented by Nicole Nakoneshny, Partner at KCI.

The Case for Organizational Health and Resilience
Presented by Bruce MacDonald, President and CEO at Imagine Canada.

  • Focused on helping organizations make the case for operating and strategies on how to discuss this topic with both stakeholders and donors.
  • Download Presentation here.

COVID-Recovery Task Force
Presented by Neemarie Allam and Hermia Corbette at CDCD.

  • Focused on the survey and work being done by the team.

We Are Here for You!
Presented by Audrey Andrews, Strategic Partnerships @ Region of Durham

  • A check-in on what the Funders Table and the Region of Durham are doing to support the charitable and nonprofit sector during COVID and beyond.

Supporting Pandemic Mental Health Impacts for Leaders: Tips, Strategies and Collaborative Problem-Solving

This 3-part series provided psycho-education information focused on identifying and managing the stressors and mental health challenges faced by leadership in the current pandemic and also involved opportunities to debrief experiences, build on collective strengths and identify helpful coping mechanisms.

Identifying Mental Health Impacts for Leaders During Pandemic

  • Pressures faced by leaders during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The mental health impacts for leaders: How stress, burnout and compassion fatigue can present for leaders in the current climate and the role isolation can play.
  • Identifying and responding to stress and distress: A continuum approach to warning signs.
  • Support and debriefing: follow-up on topics discussed.
  • Relevant Resources.

The Benefits of Self-Reflection and Self-Care for Leaders

  • The benefits of self-reflection practices for leaders.
  • Balancing self-care while facing leadership pressures.
  • Micro self-care habits: Finding the time when time is scarce.
  • Support and debriefing: follow-up on topics discussed and how to enact strategies.
  • Relevant Resources.

Self-Compassion for Leaders and Strategies for Fostering Resiliency

  • Implementing self-compassion practices: How can this help?
  • Strategies for fostering personal and organizational resiliency.
  • Strategies for supporting mental well-being and resiliency with your teams.
  • Support and debriefing: Follow-up on topics discussed and how to enact strategies.
  • Relevant Resources.

Workshop PDF – Self Compassion and Strategies for Resilience

Shared Software and Technology Information

Software for Sharing – Durham Region NFPs
A list of links to software and technology that can be shared with all Durham Region non-profits. For more information, please contact Padmini Robers at proberts@cdcd.org or at 905.686.2661 ext 135.

Please review the following Terms and Conditions before contacting/using the shared software and technology.

Adobe Creative Cloud
Adobe Creative Cloud gives users access to a collection of software developed by Adobe for graphic design, video editing, web development, photography, and cloud services.

  • Adobe Creative Cloud Includes
    • Acrobat DC: for accessing, editing, reviewing, and signing PDFs.
    • Illustrator: for creating art and illustrations.
    • InDesign: for designing and publishing layouts for both digital and print.
    • Photoshop: for compositing, creating, and editing art, graphics, and images.
    • Premiere Pro: for industry-standard, professional video editing.

GoToMeeting / GoToWebinar
GoToMeeting is a professional online meeting software that makes it easy to connect with people any way you want. Some features include: Business Messaging collaboration. Less note taking with transcriptions. Instant and scheduled meetings. Customized team settings.

  • GoToMeeting includes
    • secure online/virtual meeting
    • desktop sharing
    • video conferencing
    • connect with clients, colleagues, and community members via the internet in real-time
  • GoToWebinar includes
    • online/virtual conference platform
    •  flexible webinar interactions
    • insightful analytics.

Grant Connect
Search thousands of grant opportunities. Save countless research hours. Find funding, grow your impact.

  • Grant Connect Includes
    • fundraising platform that consists of more than 11,300 foundations/organizations
    • search for funding prospects
    • review funding applications and eligibility requirements
    • funders’ giving history
    • access up-to-date contact information on North American grant makers

Tableau
Tableau is a visual analytics platform transforming the way we use data to solve problems — empowering people and organizations to make the most of their data.

  • Tableau Includes
    • interactive data visualization
    • explore and manage data
    • discover and share data insights in creative and innovative ways

Zoom
Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing service you can use to virtually meet with others – either by video or audio-only or both, all while conducting live chats.

  • Zoom Includes
    • secure online/virtual video platform
    • chatting, meeting and phone calls
    • online events and webinars
    • connect with clients, colleagues, and community members via the internet in real-time

Durham Non-Profit Recovery Network Working Group

  • More information and Terms of Reference coming soon…

Funding Opportunities

Links to funding opportunities available to organizations in Durham.
More opportunities coming soon…

Funding Resources Region of Durham

Community organizations are working hard to respond to the needs of the community and funding initiatives to help support this work are in place.

www.durham.ca

Deadline: October 31, 2024 *Now accepting applications for the 2024 – 2025 school year for music programs only

Since launching in 2005, the S’Cool Life Fund has provided grants for over 1,200 D.R.E.A.M.S. (Drama, Recreation, Extra-Curricular, Arts, Music, or Sports) projects across the country worth over $3 MILLION helping to make school life more enjoyable for thousands of public elementary school kids (JK-8).

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…

Expression of Interest Deadline: October 31, 2024

The Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF)’s National Anti-Racism Fund (NARF) is once again accepting applications from organizations across Canada who are organizing anti-racism projects in 2024-2025.

Since its launch in 2022, the National Anti-Racism Fund has awarded nearly $8 million to over 400 organizations across Canada. In this upcoming round of funding, we will provide $2 million in grant funding towards anti-racism projects in Canada.

The Fund supports projects that aim to reduce systemic racism in Canada, promote and increase the availability and accessibility of community-informed, evidence-based research and data, inform public policy and create cross-cultural dialogue, awareness and collaboration on race and religion in this country. We welcome creative approaches to tackling racism. Past NARF projects have ranged from art initiatives to support programs, courses, campaigns and more.

Applicants seeking funding for projects that will take place between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026, must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by 11:59 pm (EST) on October 31, 2024. Successful EOI applicants will be contacted by late November 2024 and will be invited to submit full applications. Applicants will have 5-6 weeks to submit their full application between late November 2024 and early January 2025.

Learn more…

Deadline(s): October 31, 2024 and February 28, 2025

The Local Food Infrastructure Fund (LFIF) supports projects that strengthen community food security and increase the availability and accessibility of local, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food through food production-focused activities for equity-deserving groups, particularly Indigenous and Black communities.

Program objectives

The LFIF aims to support locally-driven projects that will help improve community food security through the purchase and installation of infrastructure/equipment that will increase access to local, nutritious and culturally appropriate food.

Priority will be given to projects that predominantly serve equity-deserving groups, particularly those that are led by or focus on Indigenous and Black communities.

The program has 2 components:

Small Scale Projects

  • provides grant funding between $25,000 and $100,000
  • supports projects that aim to address local food security priorities through the purchase and installation of one or a few pieces of infrastructure/equipment
  • projects must include a production element
  • application intake period: October 1, 2024 to October 31, 2024
  • total funding of $23.5 million over 3 years starting in 2024-25

Large Scale Projects

provides non-repayable contribution funding between $150,000 and $500,000

  • supports projects with multiple infrastructure/equipment needs and partnerships to address community food security in a more comprehensive manner
  • projects must include a production element and partnerships (minimum 2) to enhance community food security
  • application intake period: January 13, 2025 to February 28, 2025
  • total funding of $19.2 million over 2 years starting in 2025-26

Learn more…

Deadline(s): November 1, 2024 and 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.

The MAP provides funding to Canadian museums and related institutions through several components, and each has its own eligibility criteria.

Access to Heritage – Deadline: November 1, 2024

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 – Deadline: November 1, 2024

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.

Indigenous Heritage – Deadline: November 1, 2024

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.

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: November 6, 2024

Take a successful project to a new level. Grow grants provide a higher level of funding over 2-3 years to help proven community projects increase their impact.

Learn more…

Deadline: November 14, 2024

The Indigenous Community Capital Grants Program (ICCGP) funds the feasibility study, detailed design, renovation and construction, of Indigenous community infrastructure on-and off-reserve. The (ICCGP) supports infrastructure projects that contribute to economic development, create jobs and provide social benefit to the community or organization.

ICCGP funding supports First Nations, Métis communities and Indigenous organizations by:

  • assisting with infrastructure projects across Ontario
  • supporting the realization of cultural, social, and economic development objectives
  • improving the quality of life for Indigenous people and closing the socio-economic gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Ontario

The following Indigenous communities and organizations in Ontario are eligible to apply for ICCGP funding:

  • First Nations communities
  • Métis communities
  • indigenous organizations

Learn more…

Deadline: November 14, 2024

The Economic Diversification Grant (EDG) supports strategic economic planning to assist Indigenous communities in Ontario to expand their economic base and explore opportunities for job creation. Projects are approved through a competitive process.

You may apply to the Economic Diversification Grant if you are a:

  • Political Territorial Organization (PTO) in Ontario
  • Tribal Council in Ontario
  • First Nations community in Ontario
  • Métis community in Ontario
  • regional or provincial organization representing First Nation, Métis, Inuit, or urban Indigenous peoples, or an Indigenous service provider

Learn more…

Deadline: November 14, 2024

The Regional Partnership Grant (RPG) improves access for Indigenous people to the skills training required to gain sustainable employment and support Indigenous business development and economic growth in Ontario. Projects are approved through a competitive process.

You may apply to the Regional Partnership Grant if you are a:

  • Political Territorial Organization (PTO) in Ontario
  • Tribal Council in Ontario
  • First Nations community in Ontario
  • Métis community in Ontario
  • indigenous business in Ontario
  • indigenous organization recognized by the Province of Ontario

AND you are applying in partnership with one or more of the following:

  • Political Territorial Organization (PTO) in Ontario
  • Tribal Council in Ontario
  • First Nations community in Ontario
  • Métis community in Ontario
  • indigenous business in Ontario
  • indigenous organization recognized by the Province of Ontario
  • non-Indigenous business and/or organization

Learn more…

Upcoming Meeting: November 28, 2024. Pre-meeting application deadline: November 22, 2024

Following in the footsteps of the Baagwating Community Association (BCA) which dissolved in 2016, the MSIFN Donation Committee has continued to help organizations, communities, and individuals with charitable giving.

The MSIFN Maada’ookii Committee aims to resume the generous work of their predecessors. In an attempt to streamline all requiest from individuals, authorized representatives, organizations, and sponsorship of organized sports, we have created four applications forms. Each form consists of a checklist and guidelines of what the MSIFN Maada’ookii Committee would like to review when considering a request for assisance.

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. Please choose the appropriate form, based on the following categories, for your request:

  • Financial Hardship: form for individuals with a need derived from harsh and unforeseen circumstances.
  • Medical: Form for authorized representatives, i.e. Occupational Therapists, Social/Case Workers, Support Personnel, etc.,
  • Organizations: Form for representatives of charitable organizations/events, not-for-profits, businesses, etc.,
  • Sponsorships: Forms for sports teams or individual participants in organized sports.

The MSIFN Maada’ookii Committee plans to meet once a month to review requests. Please send in requests at least three working days prior to the next scheduled meeting for inclusion.

Learn more…

Quarter Four Deadline: November 22, 2024

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 single-time projects/programs, with a focus on rural and/or agriculture, that do not receive 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: Apply now to be added to a wait list

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…

Coming soon: Applications to open in the fall

This program will accept applications in the following categories:

  1. Arts, Culture, Heritage and Environmental – Events
  2. Arts, Culture, Heritage and Environmental – Development Projects and Special Initiatives
  3. Strong Inclusive Communities
  4. Fundraising and Oshawa Significant Events

Learn more…

Coming soon: Applications open November 5, 2024. Deadline: March 12, 2025

YOF provides grants and capacity-building to grassroots groups and collaboratives to improve the wellbeing of youth and families with a focus on Indigenous and Black communities.

With a System Innovations grant, collaboratives can help create meaningful, innovative change by delivering projects that benefit youth, while prioritizing Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, Inuit) and Black youth.

This grant supports collaboratives as they:

  • Examine and understand how youth access and experience the services within a system
  • Engage a group of partners within the system to work together toward a shared strategic vision
  • Explore potential models and best practices
  • Invest in capacity building to shift outdated behaviours
  • Design and/or implement strategies for system change

We support two types of system change projects:

Groundwork: Laying the groundwork needed to strengthen a system of services or opportunities for young people benefitting from the work

Implementation: Implementing strategies to strengthen a system of services or opportunities for young people benefitting from the work

Learn more…

Coming soon: Applications opened last year on November 21, 2023

Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) provides wage subsidies to employers from not-for-profit organizations, the public sector, and private sector organizations with 50 or fewer full-time employees, to create quality summer work experiences for young people aged 15 to 30 years.

Learn more…

Coming soon: Expressions of Interest opened last year on November 24, 2023

Our grant funds are dedicated to supporting Ontario-based organizations who are using sport and recreation to build a more equitable tomorrow. Community Action Grants enable us to grant up to $50,000 to organizations that are creating positive outcomes for youth in physical health, mental health, academic achievement, and work readiness.

MLSE Foundation prioritizes the following demographics:

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

Learn more…

Coming soon: Check site in early December for next letter of inquiry deadline

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)

All applicants are encouraged to review our Application Guidelines prior to submitting a Letter of Inquiry.

A Review Committee will evaluate Letters of Inquiry for their adherence with CDF objectives and criteria. 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.

Please note that the grant application process takes approximately eight weeks from the invited application deadline until board review and approval for all areas of focus: Civic Engagement for Social Change Initiatives, Environment Initiatives, Housing Initiatives

Civic Engagement for Social Change Initiatives: The Catherine Donnelly Foundation takes a proactive approach to Civic Engagement for Social Change, viewing it as an important tool to address the most pressing social, environmental, cultural and community development problems and concerns today. We are committed to supporting projects that promote active citizenship, democracy, personal and social transformation by fostering the development of critical consciousness and skills required to promote a more just, equitable and sustainable society in Canada.

Housing Initiatives: The Foundation will consider applications for projects that address homelessness and the scandalous lack of affordable housing through research, policy development, capacity building and advocacy within the sector. We want to hear from groups engaged in collective efforts to examine and craft solutions for the root causes of Canada’s housing crisis. We particularly want to support innovative and cutting edge projects that give priority to Indigenous Peoples and to newcomer/refugee/immigrant communities.

Environment Initiatives: The Catherine Donnelly Foundation is intent on promoting climate justice and accelerating the transition to a post-carbon world. The Catherine Donnelly Foundation’s Environment Program seeks to build momentum and mobilize public opinion around the just industries, livelihoods, and economy of the future that prioritizes green jobs as part of a low-carbon economy, that supports place-based, resilient, wellbeing economies that protect workers’ rights, eradicate poverty, distribute wealth equitably, and uphold human rights.

Potential applicants are strongly advised to contact the Foundation office prior to submitting a Letter of Inquiry.

Learn more…

Coming soon: Applications will open December 15, 2024

Clarington’s Community Funding Program provides opportunities to Clarington’s not-for-profit and volunteer-based organizations to grow and make a difference in our community. Our three-streamed approach provides options for start-up funding, growth and in-kind contributions.

Start-Up funding provides one-time start-up funding related to the development of a new group or initiative. Apply for this stream if you are starting a new project or initiative that you haven’t tried before. Pilot projects or initiatives where the outcomes are unknown would qualify for this funding. The potential or expected results should achieve a significant impact in the community.

Growth funding is available on an annual basis to organizations and event organizers committed to sustainable expansion or growth. This stream supports projects or initiatives that take an organization or event to the next level. It can be used to increase your reach in the community, increase attendance, or diversify your participants’ demographics. An effort to increase cultural diversity is also a focus of this stream.

In-Kind contributions include space or services that would typically have a fee associated with it at no cost to you or your organization. For eligible applicants interested in using Municipal services and support, this stream would offset that cost.

Learn More…

Coming soon: Winter submission deadline: January 15, 2025

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.

Submission Deadlines: January 15 and July 15

Learn More…

Deadline Stream 2 New Builds/Signature New Builds: application intake is ongoing until all funding has been allocated.

The Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) is a $200 million capital funding program designed to revitalize existing community sport and recreation infrastructure and support the construction of new facilities across the province.

Stream 2: New Builds/Signature New Builds – funding up to $10 million to invest in new, transformative community sport and recreation infrastructure, including assets that do not currently exist in a community or the replacement of existing assets that have reached the end of their lifespan

Eligible applicants include:

  • municipalities
  • local services boards
  • not-for-profit organizations
  • Indigenous communities and organizations
  • for-profit organizations (stream 2 only)

Learn more…

Deadline: No fixed deadline

In recognition of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) will include a new priority in its Events component for 2024: celebrations and events that recognize the history, culture, accomplishments, contributions and future of Black Canadians and their communities.

In addition, $3M has been set aside for another new priority, Building Community Resilience. This call to action seeks to empower communities by facilitating events and initiatives that strengthen connections, foster unity, build resilience, and establish a national network of best practices. The ultimate objective is to inspire and catalyze local grassroots initiatives that build bridges and unite Canadians.

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

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…

No Fixed Deadline

In recognition of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) will include a new priority in its Events component for 2024: celebrations and events that recognize the history, culture, accomplishments, contributions and future of Black Canadians and their communities.

In addition, $3M has been set aside for another new priority, Building Community Resilience. This call to action seeks to empower communities by facilitating events and initiatives that strengthen connections, foster unity, build resilience, and establish a national network of best practices. The ultimate objective is to inspire and catalyze local grassroots initiatives that build bridges and unite Canadians.

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

Learn More…

Ongoing: Organizations must start the application process approx. eight months prior to an event

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.

OCAF has a two-stage application process which ensures that organizations do not dedicate significant time, effort and resources to an ineligible project. Please refer to “Important Dates” for a current list of stage 2 application deadlines.

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

Stage 2 applications should be assessed by the OCAF Board approximately six months prior to an event. We are open to relaxing these timelines in light of the challenges presented by the Covid-19 health crisis.

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 organizations can apply for up to $10,000 in FCC Community Funding annually and applications are accepted year-round.

Eligible for funding:

Initiatives, projects 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

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Open Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round

We believe that combating the climate emergency is both an absolute necessity and an enormous opportunity for economic growth. We want to help halt and reverse the effects of climate change, build a green economy, and strengthen community resilience.

Our climate change grants support nature-based solutions, low-emission and renewable technologies, green building and living, and community resilience. Understanding that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are the driver of climate change, we prioritize projects with the potential to enable large-scale emission reductions in Canada.

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Open Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round

Peter Gilgan Foundation has dedicated funds to reducing barriers and uplifting opportunities and wellbeing for Indigenous young people.

We seek to support Indigenous-led organizations that are meeting the holistic needs of Indigenous youth in the areas of:

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

Grant Types

Funding is available as both project grants and general operating grants. Registered charities and qualified donees are welcome to apply for either type of grant depending on what would best suit the needs of the organization. Non-qualified donees are only eligible to apply for project grant funding at this time.

Grants for first-time applicants to this funding stream typically range from $10,000 to $50,000 and are single-year commitments.

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Open Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round

We believe that all children, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, deserve opportunities to thrive. We support efforts that equip children, youth, and families with skills, resources, and opportunities to reach their full potential. We prioritize:

  • Programs supporting equity-deserving youth
  • Efforts to target root causes of problems and not just address the symptoms
  • Comprehensive, integrated solutions rather than fragmented approaches or isolated interventions
  • Leadership representative of the people most directly affected by the problems we seek to solve
  • A commitment and willingness to ongoing evaluation and learning in order to improve and increase impact

Our grants empower organizations that enable economically vulnerable young people and families to overcome barriers to academic success, economic prosperity, and health and wellbeing in the following areas:

  • Education and Economic Opportunities
  • Children and Youth Mental Health
  • Food Security and Systems
  • Indigenous Youth

Grant Types

It’s up to you to determine what type of grant to apply for. The Peter Gilgan Foundation accepts applications for three types of grants:

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

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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: No posted deadline

This option of the National Housing Co-Investment Contribution Fund increases access to housing funding for Black-led organizations. The contribution funding supports Black-led* organizations to build housing benefiting Black households. The Fund prioritizes partnerships between Black-led organizations and other partners like governments, non-profits and other such organizations.

Contribution Funding through the Co-Investment Fund supports organizations that have already partnered and secured funding but require more capital. It can be used to:

  • top-up funding – when you have most of your project funding secured and require top-up funding to close a funding gap
  • leverage other funding sources – get funding confirmation within 30 days of being prioritized that can then be used to secure funding from other sources

Contribution Funding provides:

  • an unsecured contribution that facilitates seamless integration into project financing structures. This can make it easier for you to attract other sources of funding.
  • more certainty on funding amounts* Please refer to the Viability Assessment Spreadsheetfor more details.

* The Co-Investment’s Contribution funding amounts are based on lesser of per unit calculation, project needs or percentage of costs (Non-profits/coops = 40%.)

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Application Deadline: Ongoing

The Mayor’s Community Development Fund (MCDF) is a community development fund offered by the Town of Whitby to support local community groups, events, and initiatives that will benefit the community, including applications for COVID-19 support. The 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’s Golf Tournament. Up to 50% of the proceeds raised by the Mayor’s Golf Tournament and Mayor’s Fundraiser will be awarded to a lead cause or charity. The balance will be awarded in smaller community grants.

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)

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Ontario Non-Profit Network

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Imagine Canada

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Project Funded By
Ontario Trillium Foundation

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Project Lead
Community Development Council Durham