Community grants

If you are looking to fund a community project, there are many options for doing this. You might consider local business sponsorship or another type of fundraising initiative, or you might consider applying for a grant to start your project. 

There are many organizations that offer grants, but for some of them you need to be a registered charity to apply. If, however, you have an idea that you think would greatly benefit your community, it might be worthwhile to approach a local community agency whose work or focus fits the suggested activity and which can apply for the funding, and see if they would be willing to apply and work with you on the project. 

City of Ottawa

City of Ottawa grants are for improving the lives of Ottawa residents, and the conservation of the environment and heritage buildings. There are many types and categories of funding available – the best way to learn about them is to search the website and find out where your project fits.

http://www.city.ottawa.on.ca/residents/funding/index_en.html 

Parks and Recreation

The community partnership major and minor capital program grants fund projects to enhance the city’s recreation services. For example, if you want to put a playground in the park on your street, this is where to go to apply for funding.

http://www.city.ottawa.on.ca/residents/parks_recreation/funding_opps_en.html 

United Way Centraide Ottawa

The United Way offers Youth Action grants for young people to turn their ideas into action. Grants of up to $2500 are awarded to groups of 13-19 year olds for hands-on projects they feel will make our community a better place to live.

http://www.youthactionjeunesse.ca/index.php 

The Community Foundation of Ottawa

Grants are available to not-for-profit organizations in all sectors, but you need to be recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency as a registered charity.

http://www.communityfoundationottawa.ca/site/site_en/grant/index.htm 

Trillium Foundation

Grants are available to not-for-profit organizations across Ontario. The foundation’s mandate is to build healthy and vibrant communities by strengthening the voluntary sector through investments in community-based initiatives. Funding is provided to arts and culture, the environment, human and social services and sports and recreation sectors.

http://www.trilliumfoundation.org/cms/en/html/news_grants/ng-grant_archive.aspx?menuid=41