Deadline: August 25, 2025
The Ontario Community Changemakers Program 2025-2026 is now open for applications, providing an exciting opportunity for Ontario-based individuals with bold, creative ideas to transform their communities. Backed by 8 80 Cities and the Balsam Foundation, this initiative offers both seed funding and a structured leadership development experience. If you are passionate about public space activation, civic engagement, or social inclusion, this is the programme to bring your vision to life.
About the Ontario Community Changemakers Program 2025-2026
The Ontario Community Changemakers Program 2025-2026 is a micro-grant and leadership development programme aimed at supporting changemakers across Ontario. It empowers 30 selected individuals with funding, mentorship, and skills-building to lead impactful, community-driven projects. This marks the fourth edition of the programme, expanding its reach and inclusivity.
What Participants Receive
Selected changemakers benefit from:
- 💵 CAD $5,000 in seed funding to implement a one-year community project.
- 🤝 Access to a Studio experience—an immersive leadership and networking opportunity.
- 🧭 Virtual coaching and support throughout the project cycle.
Programme Timeline and Key Dates
The Ontario Community Changemakers Program 2025–2026 runs over a full year, starting with an intensive studio training and continuing with project implementation and mentorship support.
Key Dates:
- 📅 Application Deadline: 5:00 PM EDT, August 25, 2025
- 💻 Virtual Orientation: Thursday, October 16, 2025
- 🏙️ In-Person Studio in Toronto: Friday–Saturday, October 24–25, 2025
All costs related to travel, accommodation, and meals during the in-person sessions are fully covered.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Ontario Community Changemakers Program 2025–2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be at least 19 years old at the time of application.
- Reside within the Province of Ontario (or in Ontario’s First Nations territories).
- Submit a project idea that aligns with at least one of the programme’s key focus areas:
- Public space activation
- Civic engagement
- Social inclusion
- Be able to attend all three days of the Studio programme in October.
- The programme encourages applications from individuals with lived experiences from underrepresented communities—including Indigenous, Black, racialised, and 2SLGBTQI+ identities.
Programme Focus Areas
Your proposed initiative must contribute to one or more of the following:
- Activating Public Spaces: Projects that creatively reimagine parks, streets, plazas, or any shared spaces to make them more inclusive and vibrant.
- Civic Engagement: Ideas that promote community participation, advocacy, and local governance.
- Social Inclusion: Projects that build equity, visibility, and opportunities for marginalised or excluded groups.
Application Process
Ready to make change in your community? Here’s how to take the next step:
📘 Read more about the programme here
Ensure your application is submitted before 5:00 PM EDT on August 25, 2025. Late applications will not be considered.
Final Thoughts
The Ontario Community Changemakers Program is a powerful platform for grassroots transformation. Whether you’re activating a forgotten corner of your city or uniting your neighbours around shared issues, this programme equips you with the tools, mentorship, and financial support to make a lasting impact.
For expert help with drafting, refining, or reviewing your proposal, contact grantsdatabase.org.
