Strengthening Ontario Communities Through OTF Grow Grants
Administered by: Ontario trillium Foundation (an agency of the Government of Ontario) Funding envelope: $100,000 - $600,000 total per project(up to $200,000 per year for 2-3 years)
Typical project size: Multi-year community-based projects focused on expanding, improving, or adapting existing programs or services
Typical federal contribution: Up to 100% of eligible project costs (no cost-share requirement indicated)
Program overview
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) continues to support community development through its Grow Grant Stream, providing funding that helps non-profit organizations expand, improve, or adapt programs that make a measurable difference across the province.
This opportunity is focused on helping organizations deliver stronger, more impactful community-based initiatives in areas such as sports and recreation, arts and culture, the environment, and social services.
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, First Nations, and municipalities serving populations under 20,000. Collaboratives and faith-based organizations that deliver community programs are also welcome to apply, provided their activities are open to the broader public and not tied to religious instruction.
Applicants must demonstrate a clear community benefit, operational capacity, and alignment with OTF’s eligibility policies. Programs must be based within one of OTF’s 16 catchment areas in Ontario.
Funding Overview
Through the Grow Grant Stream, organizations can receive between $100,000 and $200,000 or $600,000, spread over a period of two to three years. The goal is to strengthen existing programs that contribute to community wellbeing and long-term sustainability.
Funding can support:
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Salaries and staffing costs directly tied to the project
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Supplies, travel, workshops, and other non-personnel expenses
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Administrative and overhead costs up to 15% of the project budget
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Capital costs up to 20% of the total project budget, including renovations, repairs, or new equipment
Applicants are encouraged to present realistic budgets with itemized quotes or estimates for all goods and services valued over $5,000.
OTF Funding Priorities
Projects must align with one of OTF’s funding priorities:
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Encouraging active lifestyles
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Building stronger community connections
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Enriching lives through arts, culture, and heritage
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Supporting youth development and leadership
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Advancing environmental conservation and restoration
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Helping people in need strengthen their financial stability
Each proposal should clearly define how the project contributes to one of these goals and demonstrate measurable community outcomes.
Eligible Project Goals
Applicants can select from three main objectives when defining their project:
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Expand an existing program or service
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Improve the quality or reach of a current program
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Adapt a program to better respond to community needs
The chosen objective should clearly show how the project adds value to the community and aligns with the selected funding priority.
Costs That Are Not Covered
Certain expenses cannot be included in an OTF Grow Grant application. These include taxes that are eligible for rebates, contingency or reserve funds, capital fundraising campaigns, and any costs incurred before the official approval of the grant.
Projects must be fully funded before OTF releases its portion of the grant. If other required funds are not secured within one year of signing the grant agreement, the award may be withdrawn.
Building a Stronger Ontario Together
The OTF Grow Grant offers an opportunity for non-profit organizations to strengthen their impact and expand their reach. Whether improving local recreation programs, restoring community spaces, or supporting youth and families, this funding can help organizations deliver long-lasting benefits across Ontario.
How GrantMatch Can Help
At GrantMatch, our team works closely with organizations to secure funding opportunities like the OTF Grow Grant. We provide expert guidance throughout the process — from determining eligibility and preparing documentation to building a compelling application that aligns with OTF’s priorities.
Contact GrantMatch today to discuss your project and take the next step toward securing funding for your community initiative.
and we’ll run a targeted eligibility review and next-steps plan.
