Role of the PEI Alliance for Mental Well-Being in the funding ecosystem
The PEI Alliance for Mental Well-Being is an independent, incorporated non-profit created in 2021 to improve mental well-being outcomes for all people living on Prince Edward Island. Working from the science of brain development and resilience, it invests directly in community organizations through a formal grant program, supports research and knowledge mobilization, and offers training and convening activities that help partners apply evidence in practice.
Its flagship Focusing Action for Positive Change Community Grant Program provides more than $2 million in funding in 2025–26 for time-limited projects with clear objectives, deliverables and outcomes. The Alliance emphasizes upstream, prevention-focused and evidence-based initiatives that strengthen core life skills, support responsive relationships and reduce sources of toxic stress across the lifespan.
Grant streams and target beneficiaries
The Alliance administers two main funding streams for PEI-based non-profit and charitable organizations:
- Community Action Grants – multi-year grants of up to $100,000 per year for 2–3 years to develop or enhance programs, policies or services that improve mental well-being outcomes.
- Community-Based Research (CBR) Grants – project grants of up to $50,000 for up to two years, supporting collaborative research between community organizations and researchers to generate actionable knowledge that informs programs, policy and services.
Eligible lead applicants must be established non-profit or charitable organizations operating in PEI with sound governance and financial practices. Individuals, businesses and public bodies cannot apply on their own but may participate as partners. Funded projects span diverse sectors and populations, from farmers and youth to early childhood educators, non-profit workers, neurodivergent adults and equity‑seeking communities.
Funding focus and non-financial support
The Alliance funds time‑limited projects such as needs assessments, community‑based research, new or expanded programs and services, and policy or systems-change initiatives that aim to improve mental well-being in PEI. Funding cannot be used for core operating or capital costs, though a portion of each grant may cover project-related administration.
Beyond financial support, the Alliance offers applicant guides, workshops, FAQs and one‑on‑one assistance through its Grants Team. It also delivers training—such as the Brain Story PEI Pilot—hosts forums and events, and maintains a research advisory table to align efforts across community, policy and research partners.
Transparency, selection and impact
Grant applications are managed through an online Grants Portal and reviewed by an independent peer review committee, including community members and people with lived experience. Recommendations are approved by the Alliance’s Board of Directors, ensuring fairness and accountability. A public grantee database and annual/impact reports showcase funded organizations, project descriptions and award amounts, while progress and final reporting requirements help build a shared knowledge base about what works to strengthen resilience and mental well-being across Prince Edward Island.