The City of Toronto is accepting applications for its capacity-building grants for Indigenous-led grassroots groups and collectives. Groups can apply for one grant each of up to $20,000, with a total of $450,000 available funding in 2023.
First established in 2022 by the City’s Indigenous Affairs Office (IAO), the grants support multiple actions in the City’s Reconciliation Action Plan, which include improving relationships with Indigenous organizations, addressing racism, and providing sustainable fiscal supports for reconciliation. These capacity-building grants may be used by Indigenous-led grassroots groups and collectives to create new projects, enhance existing programs, or improve their operations. Projects must be completed within one year of receiving funds.
To be eligible, grassroots groups and collectives must be Indigenous-led, with a majority of the group self-identifying as First Nations, Inuit, or Métis. Programs and activities must operate on a not-for-profit basis and take place in Toronto. Grassroots groups or collectives must have two or more community members working together under a group name, either for a single project or on an ongoing basis. Groups that have previously received this capacity-building grant are not eligible to apply again in 2023, unless their previously funded project is complete and their final report has been submitted to the IAO.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis starting today until Thursday, September 21. Applications will be assessed and grant recipients will be selected throughout the application period, on a quarterly basis, with deadlines on Tuesday, March 21, Wednesday, June 21, and September 21. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as funding may be allocated before the final September 21 deadline.
The City is committed to supporting groups that may require assistance in completing their application. Applicants are encouraged to discuss their applications with the IAO in advance of submitting their application, as well as allowing time for City staff to provide feedback, where desired. Staff will be available to support applicants throughout the process and can be contacted at Indigenous@toronto.ca.
More information including full eligibility criteria and supports available to applicants, as well as the application form, are available here .
More information about the City’s Reconciliation Action Plan is available on toronto.ca.
Quotes:
“These capacity building grants are one way in which the City of Toronto is increasing access to support and funding for Indigenous grassroots groups and collectives, as well as continuing to fulfill the actions outlined in its Reconciliation Action Plan. I hope many groups will consider applying and I look forward to watching the funded projects go on to make a real difference in their communities.”
– Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie (Scarborough-Rouge Park)
“I look forward to continuing the success of the City’s capacity-building grants to help First Nations, Inuit and Métis grassroots groups and collectives, especially those who might not previously have had access or experienced barriers to funding, deliver much-needed programming and activities.”
– Selina Young, Director, Indigenous Affairs Office
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Media contact: Media Relations, media@toronto.ca