As we continue working to create opportunities and break barriers for Black youth across Canada, funding opportunities can play a transformative role in unlocking potential and driving meaningful impact. Whether you’re a nonprofit organization, youth leader, or advocate, there are several grants available to support initiatives focused on youth development, education, employment, and crime prevention.
Here’s a breakdown of key grants and funding programs designed to empower youth, with a focus on racialized and underserved communities.
1. Canada Summer Jobs Program
Deadline: Typically early in the year (check the website for exact dates)
Purpose: This federal program provides wage subsidies to employers to create quality summer work experiences for youth aged 15–30. It’s an excellent way to foster early career development while addressing labor shortages.
Who Can Apply? Nonprofits, public sector employers, and small businesses with fewer than 50 employees.
2. Change Leaders Micro-grant Program
Deadline: Rolling applications (subject to funding availability)
Purpose: This micro-grant supports youth-led initiatives that drive positive change in their communities. It focuses on empowering youth with the resources to take on impactful projects that address local issues.
Who Can Apply? Youth aged 13–24 in Canada, seeking to launch community improvement projects.
3. Racialized Youth Innovation (RAYI) Micro-grants
Deadline: Varies – check the website for updates.
Purpose: This micro-grant helps racialized youth lead creative, community-driven initiatives addressing social issues. It’s designed to spark innovation and drive actionable change at the local level.
4. Promise1000 Youth Fund
Purpose: Aimed at supporting organizations serving underrepresented youth, the Promise1000 Youth Fund provides financial backing for programs that address systemic barriers and create lasting community impact.
5. Empowering Leadership in Youth Through Community Action (ELYCA)
Purpose: This grant promotes leadership in youth by funding projects that focus on community involvement and positive change. It encourages young people to design and lead initiatives that impact their communities.
6. National Crime Prevention Strategy (NCPS)
Purpose: This strategy offers funding for crime prevention programs targeting vulnerable youth, particularly those at risk of gang involvement or violence. Eligible projects must be evidence-based and community-led, focusing on racialized youth and Indigenous populations.
Highlights:
- Addresses bullying, violence, and systemic issues.
- Encourages readiness and resilience in underserved communities.
Final Thoughts
Empowering Black youth starts with creating equitable access to resources. These grants provide a foundation for young leaders and their communities to grow, innovate, and thrive. We encourage you to explore these opportunities, share them with your networks, and apply for funding that aligns with your goals.
If you’d like assistance with grant writing or program development, Join our Black Builder Network where we provide resources and opportunities for Black-led, Black focused and Black Serving, organizations, non-profits, entrepreneurs and more. Together, let’s drive impact and build a brighter future for our youth.
Stay connected for updates on more funding opportunities and youth programs!
About the Black Builders Network
The Black Builders Network is a Black Business and Nonprofit Resource Hub, your go-to destination for accessing a wide range of resources designed to support and empower black entrepreneurs, non-profits, and businesses. Sign up for free today!
About FBC
The Federation of Black Canadians is a national organization dedicated to advancing the social, economic, and cultural well-being of Black communities across Canada. Through advocacy, education, and community initiatives, FBC strives to create equitable opportunities for all.
