How much funding can be received?

The Family Innovations Test Grant supports grassroots groups led by parents, guardians, or caregivers to develop and test new ideas, explore different approaches, or research important issues, aiming to improve the well-being and social and economic stability of families. Eligible activities include piloting new projects, researching specific topics, and strategizing around issues affecting parents, guardians, and caregivers. The program prioritizes initiatives led by and for Indigenous and Black communities and covers a spectrum of eligible expenses to facilitate project implementation.

grant_single_labels|terms_and_conditions

This grant provides financial support for innovative projects targeting the wellbeing of parents, guardians, and caregivers in Ontario. Funding is structured to ensure impactful community-led initiatives can be effectively piloted, researched, or strategized.

Maximum funding of $100,000 per year for projects lasting between 1 and 3 years.
A 15% administrative support cost is required for Organizational Mentors.
Capacity building costs between $2,000 to $4,000 per year are required.
Funding covers staffing, project expenses, transportation, honorariums, support services, project supplies, equipment, food, communications, and expert fees.
Grants do not cover taxes eligible for rebates, capital infrastructural costs, contingency costs, ongoing operational costs unrelated to the project, personal professional services, and certain other ineligible costs.

grant_single_labels|projects

Family Innovations Test Grant supports community-led initiatives designed to enhance the wellbeing of parents, guardians, and caregivers. The grant encourages activities that pilot new ideas, research critical issues, and strategize around challenges faced by these groups.

Pilot new project ideas to support access to resources for parents, guardians, and caregivers, enabling them to better navigate social systems.
Adapt and test existing successful projects from other regions to meet local needs of parents, guardians, and caregivers.
Establish a learning circle for parents, guardians, and caregivers focused on navigating experiences like supporting children with disabilities or improving mental health.
Create cultural spaces that celebrate and share knowledge and traditions of parents, guardians, and caregivers.
Conduct research to explore new concepts or understand specific community issues affecting parents, guardians, and caregivers.
Develop participatory research projects to address experiences faced by families.
Use strategic discussions to understand issues and develop collective responses while connecting parents, guardians, and caregivers.

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's profile and their community engagement.

The applicant must be a grassroots group not registered as a charity or as an incorporated not-for-profit organization.
For an organization incorporated as a not-for-profit, it must not have share capital and must have independently managed revenues of $50,000 or less in either of the last two years.
The work of the group must be community-led and community-inspired, with core group members sharing identities and lived experiences with the parents, guardians, and caregivers who will benefit from the project.
If the group is from a First Nation, no more than 50% of its members can be part of the band office or band council.
The group must be led by parents, guardians, and caregivers.
Parents, guardians, and caregivers must form more than 50% of the core group, which must have at least three members.
More than 50% of core group members must have an ‘arm's length’ relationship, meaning they are not closely related or in a position of conflict of interest.
The group must be based in Ontario and the work must benefit parents, guardians, and caregivers in Ontario.
The group must exist independently of larger organizations like charities, municipalities, universities, schools, or hospitals.
The group must agree to work with an Organizational Mentor and have the autonomy to choose their mentor.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

The Family Innovations Test Grant is specifically tailored for grassroots groups led by parents, guardians, or caregivers who share lived experiences with those they aim to support. Eligible applicants include groups that are not registered as charities or larger entities, such as municipalities or religious institutions. These groups must:- Be unincorporated or incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation without share capital in Canadian jurisdictions.- Have independently managed revenues of $50,000 or less in the previous two years.- Ensure that over 50% of their core group members are parents, guardians, and caregivers.- Reflect the communities they serve, particularly focusing on Indigenous and Black families who face systemic barriers.- Operate independently from larger organizations and must not exceed 50% membership from band offices if from a First Nation.Applicants should be ready to enter a collaborative agreement with an Organizational Mentor and meet "led by and for" principle by ensuring leadership comes directly from those sharing identities and challenges with beneficiaries. The projects must aim to test new ideas or conduct research to address systemic issues impacting parents and caregivers in Ontario.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

This grant excludes certain organizations and entities primarily based on their organizational status or affiliation with larger entities. The restrictions are in place to ensure that funding is directed toward community-led grassroots initiatives.

Registered charities.
Religious entities established for the observation of religious beliefs, including churches, temples, mosques, and synagogues.
Municipalities.
Groups or projects based at existing organizations (not-for-profit or for-profit).
Groups specifically designed to serve through committees or clubs of institutions, such as municipalities, universities, schools, and hospitals.
For-profit organizations or businesses.
Individuals.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

The Family Innovations Test Grant seeks to drive meaningful change by supporting grassroots projects led by parents, guardians, or caregivers. These projects aim at testing new ideas, exploring issues, and strategizing collective approaches to enhance the wellbeing of families.

Pilot innovative project ideas to positively impact parents, guardians, and caregivers.
Conduct research on specific topics or issues pertinent to family well-being.
Organize collaborative discussions among parents, guardians, and caregivers to explore new strategies on common issues.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

This grant is available to groups based in specific geographical areas as determined by the funding body. The eligible location is prioritized to ensure the focus on regional community benefits.

Groups based in Ontario.

grant_single_labels|criteria

The Family Innovations Test Grant evaluates projects based on specific selection criteria that measure the strength of leadership and strategy to ensure impactful outcomes for community-led initiatives.

Strong Grassroots Leadership: Assessment weight: 40% - The group must demonstrate the right mix of knowledge, skills, and experience to deliver the project successfully and have strong connections to the issues and communities they intend to serve.
Setting the Context (Issue & Idea): Assessment weight: 60% - The idea or research must be clearly described, addressing systemic barriers faced by YOF parents, guardians, or caregivers, and should be culturally anchored to meet their needs and experiences effectively.
Potential for Impact (Idea & Impact): - YOF parents, guardians, and caregivers must be the clear and direct beneficiaries of the project, with the anticipated changes aligning with the chosen YOF Priority Outcome.

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Expression of Interest
Create an OTF account if you are a new user, or sign in to the Granting Portal if you already have an account.
Complete the Expression of Interest form once the application portal opens.
Submit the Expression of Interest by the specified deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Step 2: Review and Assessment of Expression of Interest
The submitted EOI is reviewed for eligibility and readiness to do the proposed work.
The assessment includes checking the potential impact and the understanding of beneficiaries’ needs and experiences.
The online presence of applicants is reviewed to ensure they deliver eligible and relevant activities.
Receive notification of the status of your Expression of Interest approximately 6 weeks after the deadline.
Step 3: Connection with Organizational Mentor
Initiate early contact with potential Organizational Mentors to confirm eligibility.
Collaborate with an Organizational Mentor to draft the grant application if your EOI is shortlisted.
Step 4: Submit the Grant Application
Participate in a mandatory webinar about the grant application process and next steps.
Work with the Organizational Mentor to finalize the Collaborative Agreement and the grant application.
Upload the signed Organizational Mentor-Grassroots Group Collaborative Agreement with your grant application.
Submit the complete grant application by the deadline.
Step 5: Recommendation and Selection
The Grant Review Committee provides recommendations which are approved by the OTF’s Board of Directors.
Step 6: Notification
Receive notification of your grant application status approximately 8 weeks after the application deadline.
Step 7: Confirmation and Orientation
Participate in a mandatory orientation session and trainings if the grant is awarded.
The Organizational Mentor receives the OTF Grant Contract and is responsible for signing it.
Step 8: After Approval
Engage in reporting and monitoring activities to track project progress and complete annual and final reports.
Utilize capacity building opportunities to connect and network with other grantees.
Assist in evaluation activities to measure project success towards the chosen Priority Outcome.
Upon approval of the Final Report by OTF, receive the final payment for the project.
Be aware of the possibility of a Grantee Compliance Audit during or after the grant period.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

Groups are required to work with an Organizational Mentor, who provides administrative support, project mentoring, and financial accountability.
A collaborative agreement must be signed between the group and the Organizational Mentor and submitted with the grant application.
Successful groups are required to participate in a mandatory orientation session and trainings after grant approval.
Regular monitoring, tracking of activities, spending, and completion of annual and final reports is required for grantees.
Grantees can engage in capacity building opportunities to connect and network with other grantees during the project.
Grants are subject to potential compliance audits within the grant’s life or after closure.

Apply to this program

Summary: Family Innovations Test Grant

The Family Innovations Test Grant supports grassroots initiatives led by parents, guardians, and caregivers in Ontario aiming to enhance their community's well-being. This grant focuses on testing new ideas, researching issues, or strategizing around challenges to positively impact families facing systemic barriers, especially among Indigenous and Black communities.

Understanding the Family Innovations Test Grant: A Pathway for Empowerment and Resilience

The Family Innovations Test Grant represents a significant opportunity for grassroots groups across Ontario to implement innovative and community-driven projects that support families in diverse ways. This grant, under the Youth Opportunities Fund (YOF), is designed to empower parents, guardians, and caregivers, recognizing their critical role in fostering resilient communities and shaping the positive futures of young people. As a vital component of the broader Family Innovations Stream, this grant aims to address systemic barriers, promote economic stability, and enhance social well-being among families, especially within Indigenous and Black communities who face unique challenges and oppression.

Purpose and Objectives

The Family Innovations Test Grant serves multiple purposes, all revolving around the goal of empowering families to build stronger, healthier communities. At its core, this grant encourages grassroots groups to explore new ideas, increase understanding through research, and strategize collectively to tackle specific issues affecting parents, guardians, and caregivers. By doing so, it seeks to create culturally relevant solutions that resonate with the community's unique experiences and aspirations.

Key Areas of Focus

1. **Trying New Ideas**: The grant emphasizes piloting innovative projects with the potential to significantly enhance the well-being of parents, guardians, and caregivers. This could involve starting new initiatives such as resource hubs or learning circles that focus on supporting specific challenges, like caring for children with disabilities or mental health concerns. 2. **Conducting Research**: Another vital aspect of the grant is to support research endeavors that delve into specific topics or issues relevant to the community. Such research can lead to a deeper understanding of local challenges and opportunities, potentially influencing policy changes or spurring community action. 3. **Community Strategizing**: The grant also facilitates discussions among parents, guardians, and caregivers to collectively explore and create strategies to address community-specific issues. This collaborative approach strengthens bonds within the community and fosters a sense of agency and empowerment.

Eligibility and Prioritization

The Family Innovations Test Grant specifically targets grassroots groups that are parent, guardian, or caregiver-led, and whose members reflect the identities and experiences of the communities they aim to serve. A particular emphasis is placed on supporting Indigenous and Black families, acknowledging the systemic barriers these communities face. To qualify, groups must demonstrate a keen understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities within their community and align their projects with YOF's Priority Outcomes.

Priority Outcomes

To maximize impact, the grant requires applicants to align their projects with one of the specified Family Innovations Priority Outcomes. These outcomes focus on significant changes such as: - Supporting economic stability for families by helping them navigate existing resources. - Enabling families to effectively engage with and influence systems affecting their well-being. - Fostering community and cultural connections to help families heal from trauma and strengthen relationships.

Who Benefits?

The primary beneficiaries of this grant are parents, guardians, and caregivers across Ontario, especially those within Indigenous and Black communities. However, it also acknowledges other intersecting identities and experiences, including racialized, newcomer, and 2SLGBTQIA+ families. The grant aims to uplift these communities by addressing their unique challenges and fostering environments where they can thrive.

Funding Details

Grants are awarded for a minimum of one year, up to a maximum of three years, with funding up to $100,000 per year. Eligible expenses include staffing, transportation, support services, project supplies, and more. This comprehensive funding ensures that grassroots groups can effectively develop and implement their projects with the support they need.

Application Process

The application process for the Family Innovations Test Grant is thorough and involves several steps, ensuring only the most suitable projects are selected. It begins with the submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI), which is assessed based on criteria such as group eligibility, leadership, and the project's potential impact. Shortlisted applicants are then invited to submit a detailed grant application, which includes collaborating with an Organizational Mentor who provides additional support and accountability.

The Role of Organizational Mentors

Organizational Mentors play a crucial role in the success of grant recipients. They assist in administrative tasks, offer project mentoring, and ensure financial accountability. This partnership helps grassroots groups navigate the complexities of grant management and enhances their capacity to achieve meaningful outcomes.

Impact and Reporting

Grantees are expected to measure their progress against their chosen Priority Outcome and report their findings to demonstrate the impact of their initiatives. This process not only ensures accountability but also facilitates knowledge sharing and capacity building among grantees, fostering a collaborative environment where learning and development are prioritized.

Conclusion

The Family Innovations Test Grant is a powerful tool for grassroots groups aiming to make a tangible difference in their communities. By focusing on the unique needs and strengths of families, this grant fosters resilience, promotes cultural connections, and addresses systemic barriers. As a result, it paves the way for healthier, more vibrant communities where families can thrive and contribute to the broader societal well-being.