The City of London has invited local not-for-profit organizations and groups to apply for the 2024 Innovation, Capital, and Grassroots grants through the City of London Community Grants Program.

According to the Manager of Community Development for the City of London, Janice Walter, these grants serve as a vital mechanism for bolstering the efforts of local organizations in expanding their programs, services, or facilities that benefit the residents of London.

“These grants empower new and emerging groups to initiate projects or initiatives that contribute to the city’s betterment,” Walter said.

Innovation grants are for projects that involve community partnerships, improving service delivery, and generating new ideas. On the other hand, capital grants are for projects that require the purchase of physical assets such as land, buildings, and other associated costs to expand program/service space. Grassroots grants are for unincorporated grassroots groups or newly incorporated organizations that need help to establish the capacity and conditions for practical sustainability.

A substantial funding pool of $396,000 is for Innovation and Capital projects, with an additional $100,000 designated for the inaugural Grassroots Grant Program this year.

“A minimum of 25 per cent of the $396,000 and 25 per cent of the $100,000 must be to projects supporting anti-racism, anti-oppression, diversity, equity, and inclusion,” Walter said.

Walter explained that these grants align with the City Council’s Strategic Plan.

The Strategic Plan, devised at the beginning of each year, outlines critical focus areas for the City’s growth and development over the next four years. These encompass reconciliation, equality, accessibility, inclusion, economic growth, cultural prosperity, and gender diversity.

In 2023, the City of London received 60 applications (38 Innovation and 22 Capital) for the Innovation and Capital Grants program, funding 11 Innovation projects and two Capital projects. Walter shared insights into notable projects from past years.

“We funded a project two years ago with WeBridge Community Services. The project [Voices of Wisdom and Voices of Hope] was educational workshops for black seniors and young people. So, they had $31,000 or 12 months, and they provided projects, activities and programs for older and young Black people to come together,” Walter said.

Additionally, funding was allocated to projects like establishing a processing facility for urban farming, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and community resilience.

 “Applicants for Innovation and Capital grants must be registered not-for-profit organizations,” Walter said. “Grassroots grant applicants can be new, unincorporated groups that have been operational over the past year.”

Grassroots groups are encouraged to collaborate with registered not-for-profit organizations to host their applications, facilitating access to funding and resources.

Walter emphasized the rigorous review process.

“The grant application process entails a thorough review by a community panel comprising individuals with expertise in the strategic focus areas outlined in the City Council’s Strategic Plan,” Walter said. “These panel members meticulously assess each application based on predefined criteria to ensure alignment with the City’s overarching goals and priorities.”

Walter encouraged all eligible organizations to seize this opportunity to secure funding and support for their initiatives. Interested organizations can visit the City of London Community Grants Program webpage for detailed information and to initiate the application process. The deadline to apply is May 27 at 4:30 p.m.