Black-Mandated Funding Framework

Grant applications closed October 15, 2024 at 3 p.m.

 

The Black-Mandated Funding Framework aims to address funding gaps and historical underinvestment in community organizations and groups that serve Toronto’s Black communities. The model provides an equity-centered approach to addressing anti-Black racism in the City’s community funding processes.  

The Black-mandated Funding Framework is grounded in the following principles:   

  • Enabling an ecosystem of support for Black community groups  
  • Ensuring City accountability and accessibility  
  • Advancing equity and self-determination

A Black-mandated organization meets four key criteria:

Mandate / Mission

Has a mandate that explicitly states they serve Black communities and are grounded in Black/African-centred approaches across services and programs.

Governance

Is led by a majority of staff and board members who self-identify as Black or of African descent.

Population Served

Primarily serves Toronto’s diverse Black communities.

Community Accountability & Trust

Responds to community needs, and develops and maintains relationships with the communities served or other Black-mandated organizations and groups.

An Eligible Community Organization Or Group Is:

  • An incorporated or unincorporated not-for-profit organization and/or charitable organization  
  • Based in the City of Toronto (with an M postal code)
  • Accountable to the community through an elected Board of Directors who are representative of the community served, with a majority living in Toronto 
  • Grassroots groups, through a leadership team of at least three members who direct and lead decision-making and live in Toronto 
  • Able to provide audited financial statements for the most recent fiscal year (for established organizations and groups) 
  • In good standing with the City of Toronto (i.e., up-to-date on all requirements of any City of Toronto funding the organization has received, including reporting)  
  • Compliance with the City of Toronto Grants Policy  

Successful applicants must sign a Declaration of Compliance with Anti-Harassment, and be willing to work with an intermediary organization for financial management, mentorship and supports. More details on eligibility and grant program requirements can be found in the program Guidelines.  

    Applications closed October 15, 2024 at 3p.m.

    Steps to apply:

    1. Review the grant guidelines and eligibility information 
    2. Attend a grant information session and/or virtual drop-in office hours if you have questions about the application process 
    3. Draft your answers in a Word document using the program guidelines sample application questions, so you can cut and paste your answers into TGRIP – the City’s online grants application system   
    4. Register your group on the Toronto Grants, Rebates and Incentives (TGRIP) Portal if you do not have a TGRIP account   
      1. How to Register for a TGRIP Account Guide  
      2. How to Register for a TGRIP Account – Video  
    5. Complete an eligibility self-assessment on TGRIP 
    6. Complete and submit your grant application, including your project budget and work plan, on TGRIP   

              For more detailed information please review the Black-mandated Funding Framework program guidelines and application questions.