The City of Brantford, in partnership with the Brant Community Foundation, is inviting non-profit organizations and registered charities to apply for funding through the 2025 City Grants Program. Applications are now open, offering local organizations the opportunity to secure financial support for projects aimed at strengthening community wellbeing and addressing key social priorities.
Since its launch in 2001, the City Grants Program has provided critical funding to grassroots initiatives that contribute to the vitality of Brantford. The program is funded through the city’s revenue-sharing agreement with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) for hosting Elements Casino Brantford, with the Brant Community Foundation overseeing the application and distribution process.
For 2025, the program will focus on supporting projects that align with the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan, a framework that identifies key areas of need across the community. Eligible projects must address at least one of the following priorities: affordable housing, children and youth, diversity and inclusion, intimate partner and gender-based violence, older adults, safe and vibrant neighbourhoods, and substance use.
In addition to addressing these priorities, successful projects are expected to contribute to local arts, culture, heritage, recreation, the natural environment, or health and human services. Past recipients have included community art programs, youth outreach initiatives, and public events aimed at fostering inclusion and celebrating cultural diversity.
Three grant streams are available this year. The Operational Stream offers up to $10,000 to enhance or expand existing programs. The Capital/Start-Up Stream provides up to $15,000 to support the launch of new initiatives. The Event Stream, which funds new or recurring community events, offers grants of up to $5,000.
To support potential applicants, the Brant Community Foundation will host a virtual information session on Wednesday, March 5 at 10 a.m. The session will walk organizations through eligibility requirements, application guidelines, and tips for submitting strong proposals. A recording of the session will also be made available at brantcommunityfoundation.ca/grants. Those interested in attending can register at https://bit.ly/applicationinfosession.
Applications must be submitted by Friday, April 25, 2025, at 4 p.m. Organizations with questions are encouraged to contact the Brant Community Foundation at info@brantcf.ca. Full application guidelines, forms, and additional information are available at brantcommunityfoundation.ca.
As local non-profits continue to navigate growing community needs, the City Grants Program remains an important source of funding to help organizations build capacity and deliver projects that directly benefit residents.
