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Canada Fund for Local Initiatives
Support for small, locally led development projects
Last Update: May 22, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
Quebec, Canada
Overview
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives supports small, high-impact projects in developing countries. It funds locally led initiatives aligned with thematic priorities such as governance, peace and security, gender equality, climate action, and human dignity.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Develop strategic partnerships
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Quebec
Legal structures
- Non-profit
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Environment
Target groups
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- 100% donations / grants
Scope
- Local
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Small-scale, high-impact local development projects
- Projects addressing governance, peace, gender equality, climate, or human dignity priorities
- Projects in response to natural disasters or humanitarian emergencies
Documents Needed
- Completed application form
- Project budget document
- Proof of legal status
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Local NGOs, community groups, and non-profits
- Local academic institutions
- International NGOs
- Intergovernmental, multilateral, and regional organizations
- Canadian NGOs and non-profits
Eligible expenses
- Project-related administrative and overhead costs
- Project staff salaries and related operating costs
- Travel, transport, and vehicle rental costs
- Training, communications, and outreach expenses
- Equipment, internet, and other project-related service costs
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Purchase of vehicles
- Nuclear technologies and facilities
- Military or paramilitary assistance
- Gifts and luxury goods
- Core or recurrent organizational costs
Eligible geographic areas
- Over 120 ODA-eligible countries
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed by a selection committee.
- Only proposals using the designated form and required budget document are considered.
- Only successful applicants are contacted.
- Approved projects are kept on file by the embassy or high commission.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives?
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives supports small, high-impact projects in developing countries. It funds locally led initiatives aligned with thematic priorities such as governance, peace and security, gender equality, climate action, and human dignity.
Who is eligible for the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives program?
To be eligible for the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives program, you must:
Locally led project
Aligned with program priorities
Eligible recipient type
What expenses are eligible under Canada Fund for Local Initiatives?
Small-scale, high-impact local development projects
Projects addressing governance, peace, gender equality, climate, or human dignity priorities
Projects in response to natural disasters or humanitarian emergencies
Who can I contact for more information about the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives?
You can contact Global Affairs Canada (GAC).
Where is the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives available?
The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives program is available the province of Quebec.
Is the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives?
Canada Fund for Local Initiatives is funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC)