Grant and Funding Programs Offered by MCIC (MCIC)

The Manitoba Council for International Cooperation (MCIC) is a provincial coalition of organizations engaged in international development, global citizenship education and public engagement. In addition to its convening and educational roles, MCIC administers government funds from the Province of Manitoba and the Government of Canada that are earmarked for international development initiatives. Through multiple grant streams, it channels resources to member agencies and Manitoba-based community organizations working with partners in the Global South.

MCIC’s portfolio of funding for international projects is structured to reach both member organizations and non-member community groups. For members, the Development Fund supports long-term development projects that improve diverse aspects of individual and community life in the Global South. Grants are allocated based in part on funds raised in Manitoba, with published ranges per project and a clear matching requirement, and all proposals are reviewed by MCIC’s Overseas Project Committee and Board of Directors.

The Theme Fund encourages member agencies to respond to specific, time-bound global issues. Every two years, MCIC selects a focus theme and runs a competitive call for proposals. This fund offers a defined total envelope and maximum grant size per project, does not require matching contributions, and is governed by detailed funding guides and standard application templates.

Recognizing the need for timely response to crises, MCIC also manages a Relief and Rehabilitation Fund. This stream finances projects that address urgent humanitarian needs following natural or human-made disasters, bridging the gap between emergency response and longer-term development. It operates on a rolling basis without fixed annual deadlines, within MCIC’s fiscal year, and typically supports projects within a stated funding range.

For non-member organizations, the Community Solidarity Fund provides small grants to Manitoba not-for-profit, community-based groups undertaking development projects overseas. This program sets eligibility around charitable status or formal sponsorship, caps on maximum grant sizes, and specific rules for repeat applicants. First-time applicants can access base funding without a match, while returning applicants may leverage limited matching funds to increase their grant.

Across its funds, MCIC requires that applicants align with its guiding principles for international cooperation and that projects advance empowerment, self-determination, gender equality and sustainability. Each program has published eligibility criteria, matching ratios where applicable, funding ceilings and timelines. Applicants use standardized application forms and budget templates provided on the website, ensuring comparable and transparent assessment.

Successful grantees must report on the use of funds through narrative and financial reporting templates. This common reporting framework applies to development, theme, relief and community solidarity projects, supporting accountability to public funders and to communities served abroad.

Beyond direct project grants, MCIC supports public engagement and recognition initiatives that complement its funding role. It coordinates International Development Week activities in Manitoba, hosts events highlighting funded projects and manages the annual Development Impact Award, which celebrates outstanding initiatives supported through its programs. News stories on the site showcase examples such as gender-transformative climate and health projects in Sri Lanka, illustrating how MCIC-administered funds translate into measurable outcomes like reduced carbon emissions, improved nutrition and increased leadership roles for women and girls.

MCIC also participates in national networks such as the Inter-Council Network and benefits from federal programs like ENGAGE and Canada LIFTs, which bolster its capacity to involve Manitobans as global citizens. Through its mix of grants, education, awards and partnerships, the organization plays a central role in channeling public resources to locally driven international cooperation efforts.