Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Education Foundation of Ottawa (EFO)

The Education Foundation of Ottawa (EFO) is a registered charitable foundation dedicated to reducing barriers to learning for students in the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB). Working closely with schools, staff, families and community partners, the Foundation channels donated funds into targeted financial support for children and youth who might otherwise be excluded from essential learning opportunities.

Its mandate is city-wide, serving OCDSB elementary and secondary schools across Ottawa. The Foundation focuses on levelling the playing field so that every student, regardless of family income or personal circumstances, can participate fully in school life and pursue their educational goals.

The Foundation administers a broad portfolio of financial supports. A major component is its structured Awards and Bursaries offering, where EFO administers named awards, bursaries and at least one grant on behalf of families, donors and partner organizations. These supports cover areas such as post-secondary access, STEM fields, the arts, music, dance, science and mathematics, Indigenous students’ needs, and international study experiences.

Examples detailed on the site include memorial awards for graduating students, bursaries for RAISE schools, music awards, a study abroad bursary, and the Marjorie Loughrey Artists in the Schools Grant, which provides up to a specified amount for arts activities in OCDSB elementary schools. Each award or grant listing typically includes the focus area, typical amount, eligibility criteria, who can apply, how to apply, and deadlines, demonstrating a formalized grant-making role.

Beyond awards and bursaries, the Foundation runs several ongoing support funds under the “What We Do” section. These include programs such as Students in Crisis, Food Security, Active Living and Opportunity, Backpacks for Brighter Futures, and Bridges Over Barriers. Through these programs, the Foundation can respond to requests from schools and staff for emergency assistance, nutrition support, participation in activities, and basic learning supplies.

Requests for assistance are coordinated through OCDSB staff using a dedicated “Request Assistance” channel, ensuring that funds are directed to students identified as having the greatest need. Impact reports published by the Foundation highlight the growing volume of requests and illustrate how donations are converted into concrete financial support for students.

The primary beneficiaries of the Foundation’s funding are OCDSB students and schools, from early years through high school. Many awards target graduating students pursuing post-secondary studies, while others support specific school communities, arts projects, or Indigenous learners and their families. By administering donor-directed endowment earnings, community-funded awards and crisis-response programs, the Foundation plays a central role in enhancing educational equity within the public school system in Ottawa.

With clear program descriptions, transparent award listings and regular impact reporting, the Education Foundation of Ottawa functions as a key local grant-maker, connecting community generosity with the diverse needs of students across the city.