Ontario Investing $17.5 Million in Innovative Community Programs and Services

The Ontario government is investing more than $17.5 million this year through the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to support 257 non-profit organizations, First Nations and small municipalities across the province that deliver innovative programs to promote active lifestyles, protect arts, culture and heritage, and expand opportunities for children and youth across the province. This funding delivers on the government’s plan to protect Ontario by making strategic investments to strengthen local services and build stronger, more resilient communities.

“Whether it’s supporting academic achievement, promoting the arts or improving local programs, OTF Seed grants empower non-profit organizations to deliver bold new ideas that build stronger communities across Ontario,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Now more than ever, it is important to invest in initiatives that protect local services and strengthen the well-being of families across Ontario while helping organizations ensure they can continue making a meaningful impact where it’s needed most, today and for years to come.”

Every year, OTF’s Seed grants help organizations improve the delivery of community-based programs and services that Ontario families rely on, with investments of up to $100,000 to support programs and services.

Some of this year’s recipients include:

• A youth employment initiative designed to strengthen the financial stability of economically vulnerable youth through entrepreneurship, job readiness, mentorship and wellness training.
• An arts and culture project focused on expanding inclusive programming that boosts community engagement and operational sustainability at a regional arts centre.
• A youth development program that provides supports to young people to help strengthen their social, emotional and leadership skills.
• A skills and employment pilot for young adults with developmental disabilities secure employment experience.

“At OTF, we believe that a healthy and vibrant Ontario begins with community-driven ideas,” said Katharine Bambrick, CEO of the Ontario Trillium Foundation. “These investments give organizations and communities the tools to innovate, strengthen local connections, and engage Ontarians of all ages. We’re proud to support the creativity and commitment of this year’s Seed grant recipients as they work to build lasting, positive change across the province.”

Through OTF’s various granting programs, Ontario has invested more than $809 million in over 7,600 projects since 2018. These investments have created more than 10,600 full-time jobs and generated over $1.3 billion in economic benefits for communities across the province. For more information and a list of recipients, visit the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s website.

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