Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Transform International Canada (TIC)

Transform International (Canada) is a non-profit charitable organization that supports community-led development in some of the world’s poorest regions. Rather than implementing projects alone, TIC collaborates closely with established in-country partners who understand local realities and are committed to long-term change. The organization raises funds from individual donors, foundations, Rotary Clubs and other supporters in Canada and abroad, then channels this financing, along with technical expertise, to locally designed programs.

TIC focuses on practical interventions that improve daily life: safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), food security, renewable energy, business and vocational training, and education. Current initiatives include basic business skills training for micro-entrepreneurs in Burundi through THARS, the STREAMS program to sustain WASH systems in Malawian healthcare facilities, extensive educational and community development support through Rwanda Rising, infrastructure upgrades to health centres such as the Jalawe Maternity Centre, youth trades training in Rwanda, menstrual hygiene programs in Malawi, and community-based support with OHET in rural Bihar, India.

TIC’s role combines funding, technical guidance and capacity building. It selects programs that meet its objectives, helps partners plan and develop them, and “provides technical expertise and sources funding.” Annual program goals are stated in Canadian dollars, such as targeted budgets for business training cohorts, WASH system strengthening, scholarships and boarding school places, or facility repairs and equipment. Donors can give to the general fund or earmark contributions for specific programs, with TIC aggregating and managing these resources to sustain projects over multiple years.

The organization also supports seed funding for micro-businesses and small infrastructure investments that unlock local capacity, for example efficient cookstoves, latrines, water collection systems and community training centres. Funding is typically delivered through trusted partner organizations which then implement activities, monitor progress and report back on outcomes.

Transform International (Canada) serves vulnerable populations including women and girls, young entrepreneurs, rural families, students from low-income households, and communities lacking safe water and basic services. Programs are designed to be demand-driven, with project ownership resting with local partners and communities. By combining financial support with skills development and evidence-based practices, TIC aims to help families move out of extreme poverty, improve health and education outcomes, and build resilient, self-sustaining communities.

The organization was formed in 2016 by experienced development practitioners and obtained Canadian charitable status in 2019. Its mission, vision and values emphasize collaboration, learning, long-term engagement, and inclusive partnerships with governments, NGOs, businesses, schools and universities. TIC highlights accountability and financial responsibility, issuing tax receipts for eligible donations and publishing stories and progress updates from funded projects to maintain transparency with supporters.