The Ontario government is investing nearly $30 million this year through the Ontario Trillium Foundation to help more than 300 non-profit organizations, First Nations communities and small municipalities improve facilities and community spaces across the province.
The funding will support innovative programs that promote active lifestyles, support arts, culture and heritage, and expand opportunities for children and youth across the province.
“Our government is investing in the facilities that bring people together every day, from arenas and community centres to arts, culture and recreation spaces,” said Zee Hamid, minister of tourism, culture and gaming. “Today’s investment will support local jobs, strengthen community organizations and ensure families have safe, accessible places to gather, stay active and enjoy local events together.”
OTF Capital grants provide investments of up to $200,000 for projects that improve community infrastructure, including equipment purchases, new construction, renovations, retrofits and repairs to existing facilities.
Projects being funded through this year’s program include accessibility upgrades at a recreation facility in Milton, construction of an accessible greenhouse and garden in Burlington to help people with developmental disabilities build skills and independence, and improvements to a Francophone community hub in Huronia, including accessible entrances and modern digital signage. Funding will also support a new energy-efficient HVAC system at a recreation centre in Oakville, as well as more accessible entrances, kitchen facilities, washrooms and new smart board technology at a community resource centre in Sudbury.
OTF has also launched a new funding program to strengthen the capacity of the non-profit sector. The new Sector grant stream will support projects that help non-profit organizations respond to changing community needs and access alternative funding opportunities. Eligible organizations can apply for grants ranging from $50,000 to $300,000 per year for one, two or three years, with applications open until Oct. 14.
“Communities directly benefit when local spaces are accessible, safe, and equipped to help non-profits deliver programs and services people need,” said Bob Chant, board chair of the Ontario Trillium Foundation. “With support from OTF’s Capital grant stream and the Government of Ontario, this investment will fund capital improvements that benefit thousands of Ontarians.”
Since 2018, Ontario has invested more than $887 million in more than 8,000 projects through OTF’s funding programs, creating more than 12,000 full-time jobs and generating more than $1.3 billion in economic benefits for communities across the province.
