Social innovation grants

Learn how to apply for Social Innovation Grants to fund pilot projects, youth safety programs, and equity initiatives in Wrenford.

What are Social Innovation Grants?

Social Innovation Grants fund local organizations that are testing new ideas to solve tough community problems. You can use this money to run pilot programmes, improve services, or bring people together around shared challenges like food security, youth safety, and social isolation.

Who can apply?

Registered non-profit organizations, community associations, and Indigenous-led groups operating in Wrenford are eligible. You must be able to provide matching funds or in-kind support worth at least 25 per cent of your requested amount.

Grant streams

Choose the stream that matches your project. All applications go through the application portal.

Community Innovation Stream

Supports creative projects that improve food security, mental wellness, or housing stability. We fund up to $15,000 per project. Projects must run for 12 months or less. We encourage partnerships with local health providers or food banks.

Youth & Community Safety Stream

Funds programmes that keep youth safe and connected. This includes mentorship, gang prevention, after-school programming, and early intervention services. We fund up to $25,000 per project. Projects must focus on upstream prevention and positive youth development.

Equity & Inclusion Stream

Supports work that advances reconciliation, fights racism, and makes services more accessible for equity-deserving groups. We fund up to $20,000 per project. Projects must include meaningful community input and align with the City's land acknowledgement and commitment to learning and reconciliation.

How to apply

  1. Check the eligibility checklist.
  2. Write a one-page project summary.
  3. Submit your application and budget through the application portal.
  4. The Social Innovation Review Committee will score your application.
  5. You will hear back within six weeks of the deadline.

Important dates

Application deadline: March 31, 2027, at 4:30 p.m.
Funding decisions: May 15, 2027
Project completion: March 31, 2028

Reporting

If your application is approved, you must submit a final report and financial statement within 45 days of your project ending. We also ask for a short update at the six-month mark.

Need help?

Drop by Room 203 in Wrenford City Hall for a free application clinic on the first Tuesday of every month, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Email [email protected] or call 519-555-0140 with questions. For more information, see Community grants, Community safety grants, or Indigenous community funding.