$31M awarded to 295 non-profits through the Resilient Communities Fund

A group of teenagers smiling cheerfully outdoors while putting their hands together in a huddle.

Through OTF’s Resilient Communities Fund, community-based organizations that deliver direct programs and services in Ontario can apply for funding to recover and build capacity, resilience and sustainability. Today, OTF is announcing $31M awarded to 295 non-profit organizations through the Resilient Communities Fund from its February 1, 2023, application deadline.

Ontario-based non-profit organizations play a critical role in meeting the needs of their communities. They offer a range of programs and services across multiple sectors that positively impact the lives of Ontarians, from cooking classes and social clubs to housing services and elder care. Their work and support improve the well-being of our communities.

The Resilient Communities Fund supports organizations as they develop and implement plans that address current organizational challenges they are facing to recover and build resilience. Organizations are awarded grants to help them fulfil their mandates and continue offering their critical programs and services. Grants are awarded for a minimum of $10,000 to a maximum of $100,000 per year, for up to 2 years. 

Today, $31 million has been announced for 295 non-profit organizations as they: 

  • Develop new approaches to generate revenue 
  • Start new activities to meet community need
  • Adjust strategies and plans 
  • Plan for future challenges

The Hon. Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, announced the new round of grants today on Twitter. Learn more about this announcement.

Explore the list of Resilient Communities Fund grant recipients.

 

“Through the Resilient Communities Fund, we’re investing in projects to increase the capacity of organizations so they can build resiliency and adapt the way they work with an eye toward long-term sustainability,” said Katharine Bambrick, CEO of the Ontario Trillium Foundation. “This round, we’re pleased to support 295 critical projects that will enhance program delivery and develop innovative solutions to drive positive change for Ontarians.” 


Below, we highlight some of the projects being funded:

Expanding arts programming for youth in Northumberland County 
With a grant of $15,700, Oak Ridge Percussion will expand access to Drumbox, a percussive arts music program delivered in schools in Northumberland County. The grant will enable them to increase their reach to a younger age group, expand on their mission to deliver affordable music programming and increase awareness of their organization.

Building on the success of established programs benefitting the Francophone population of Lambton County
With a grant of $70,000, Réseau-femmes du Sud-Ouest de l’Ontario will evaluate the effectiveness of two established programs to find creative and innovative solutions to ensure their continued success. The organization will analyze the findings and consult with the Francophone community to develop other programs, adapted to the new realities and emerging needs of Lambton County.

Increasing opportunities for physical activity through swimming programs for youth in Simcoe County
With a grant of $59,700, Norfolk Hammerheads Aquatic Club will launch a beginner swim training program for youth. Located in Simcoe, ON, this affordable program will attract new participants interested in trying competitive swimming and increase opportunities for physical activity for youth in this rural community. 

Increasing sustainability for a youth mental health services provider in Muskoka
With a grant of $84,000, MiND-AID will develop and implement long-term plans related to strategic planning and revenue generation to help them become sustainable. They will use grant funds to expand programming and enhance staff knowledge to provide ongoing supports to young people in Muskoka experiencing mental health challenges and other barriers. 


Quick Facts

  • The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Government of Ontario with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities in Ontario.
  • The Resilient Communities Fund has supported 3,048 projects across Ontario with $268 million since it was announced in August 2020. 
  • In 2022/2023, OTF awarded close to $60 million in grants over two rounds of the Resilient Communities Fund and awarded $37.5 million in Capital grants, which it re-established in 2022/2023.
  • Over the last 40 years, OTF has invested more than $2.6 billion into 28,000+ grants to build healthy and vibrant communities. Discover more about OTF’s 40 years of impact.