The Youth Opportunities Fund awards over $10M to 33 grassroots groups

A group of friends sits together at a bus stop enjoying a fun, casual moment.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) announced an investment of close to $10.8 M into 33 Youth Opportunities Fund grants.

The Youth Opportunities Fund (YOF) invests in projects that support the diverse needs of youth and families facing systemic barriers across Ontario, with a focus on Black and Indigenous communities.

Through YOF, nearly $10.8 million was awarded this year to 33 projects in the Youth Innovations and Family Innovations grant streams. These streams support projects that are led by youth, or parents, guardians and caregivers of children and youth to create solutions for systemic issues faced by their respective peers. 

The grassroots groups that are supported through the YOF program also receive training and skills development to increase their capacity, as well as networking opportunities to help them succeed now and in the future.

This year, grants awarded include:

  • 14 Youth Innovations grants receiving close to $4.8 million
  • 19 Family Innovations grants receiving just over $6 million

Explore the grants awarded list.

 

“By investing in grassroots projects through the Youth Opportunities Fund, we’re empowering community members to lead the change they want to see. These initiatives help youth and families break down systemic barriers, strengthen their economic and social well-being, and build brighter futures. Thank you to the Government of Ontario for supporting the success of young people across the province.” said CEO Katharine Bambrick.

 

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. OTF administers the Youth Opportunities Fund on behalf of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.
  • Since 2013, YOF has approved 474 grassroots groups and community collaboratives with over $152 million in funding.
  • The Youth Innovations Stream provides young people facing systemic barriers with the resources they need to design and deliver inspiring solutions to issues that matter to them.
  • The Family Innovations Stream invests in the work of grassroots groups delivering culturally anchored projects that empower and support parents, guardians and caregivers.