The Capital Grant is a funding program from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) designed to improve community spaces. It helps organizations update buildings, enhance public areas, and purchase equipment to create healthier, more connected communities in Ontario.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Deliver programs in one of these sectors: sports and recreation, arts and culture, environment, or human and social services.
- Operate in one of OTF’s 16 catchment areas in Ontario.
- Show financial and organizational capacity to manage funds and complete the project.
Eligible applicants include:
- Non-profits with at least one year of registration.
- Indigenous communities such as First Nations or Métis Chartered Councils.
- Municipalities with populations of 20,000 or less.
- Religious organizations offering non-religious community services.
Ineligible applicants include municipalities with populations over 20,000 and those not meeting OTF’s criteria.
When is the grant deadline?
Applications are open from February 5, 2025, to March 5, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. ET.
What does the Capital Grant fund?
The grant funds projects that improve infrastructure through:
- Updating buildings or community spaces.
- Purchasing fixed or non-fixed equipment.
- Enhancing outdoor spaces or structures.
Projects should align with these objectives:
- Maintain or expand access to programs or services.
- Extend the life of a facility.
- Improve space accessibility.
Funding range: $10,000 to $200,000, with up to 20% allowed for developmental costs like engineering plans.
What does the application process involve?
1. Gather information and documents: Organization details (registration numbers, board members, financials), project plans, budgets, and proof of ownership or lease agreements.
2. Prepare your application: Select project objectives and activities, provide detailed plans, and upload all required documents.
3. Submit through OTF’s Granting Portal: Complete the eligibility questionnaire and submit it before the deadline.
What are the application questions?
Key questions include:
- What is your organization’s mission and structure?
- How will your project benefit the community?
- What is your project timeline?
- What is your budget breakdown, and are costs reasonable?
You must explain how your project fits OTF’s priorities.
How is the grant application assessed?
Applications are scored on:
- Community benefit (30%): How well the project addresses needs and provides measurable outcomes.
- Project feasibility (30%): Clear plans and readiness to implement.
- Budget clarity (30%): Reasonable and well-documented costs.
- Support for underserved populations (10%): Helping vulnerable groups.
Experienced staff and volunteers review applications, with final decisions made by OTF’s Board.
What to expect after applying?
- Decision timeline: Notifications arrive 4–5 months after the deadline.
- Orientation: Successful applicants meet with an OTF Program Manager to review grant requirements.
- Funding: Once contracts are signed, funds are transferred electronically.
- Reporting: A final report is required to document the project’s success.
By following these steps, organizations can secure funding to make lasting community improvements.
Got any questions?
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Note: MoveMobility does not provide this funding and cannot assist with applications. This information is shared to raise awareness and support accessibility efforts across Manitoba.
