Kick off the new year by exploring a range of dynamic funding opportunities tailored to specific community initiatives. Whether you’re working to improve the lives of seniors, engaging in urban-focused art projects, or advocating for justice in Black communities, these grants offer crucial support to bring your vision to life. Each opportunity is designed to empower organizations and individuals dedicated to fostering meaningful change. Here’s a breakdown of key grants and funding programs available.
1. Ontario Seniors Community Grant
Deadline: January 16, 2025
Purpose: This grant program aims to improve the quality of life for seniors in Ontario by enhancing social inclusion, volunteerism, and overall well-being. It supports unincorporated groups and organizations focused on these areas.
Who Can Apply? Unincorporated groups and organizations working to improve seniors’ quality of life.
2. Justice Grant Program – Black Opportunity Fund (in partnership with TD and the Law Foundation of Ontario)
Deadline: January 23, 2025
Purpose: This grant strengthens Black-led, Black-serving organizations across Canada focused on justice-related services and access to justice for Black communities. It supports reintegration programs, prevention and supports, mental health and wellbeing, legal system reform, and more.
Who Can Apply? Black-led, Black-serving, Black-focused organizations that are registered nonprofits or charities in Canada, with existing or proposed justice projects.
3. Alberta Anti-Racism Grant Program
Deadline: January 24, 2025, at 5 PM
Purpose: This program funds initiatives that enhance public education, promote cultural understanding, and develop impactful anti-racism projects, especially for Indigenous and racialized communities.
Who Can Apply? Community organizations addressing racism and discrimination in Alberta.
Learn More & Apply
4. Early Career Canadian Urban Leaders: Artists in Residency
Deadline: January 25, 2025
Purpose: A year-long residency offering a $50,000 CAD stipend for emerging artists to engage with urban issues like civic engagement, climate change, and social justice.
Who Can Apply? Early-career artists focusing on urban themes and community engagement.
Learn More & Apply
5. Youth Opportunities Fund (YOF)
The Youth Opportunities Fund (YOF) continues to support grassroots groups dedicated to the wellbeing of youth and families, with a special focus on Indigenous and Black communities across Ontario. A program of the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), YOF is funded by the Ontario Government’s Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services. The fund offers a two-step application process, beginning with an Expression of Interest.
Deadlines:
Step 1: Expression of Interest Deadline: April 9, 2025, at 5 PM ET.
Step 2: Grant Application Deadline: July 9, 2025, at 5 PM ET. (Includes submission of a collaborative agreement with an Organizational Mentor.)
For questions: Contact the YOF team at 1 800 263-2887 or yof@otf.ca. Learn more
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.
