Seniors Community Grant Program

Who is eligible?

Eligible applicants must:1. Represent seniors’ groups and/or offer programs or services that directly benefit older adults living in Ontario.2. Be registered in Transfer Payment Ontario.3. Be either: - A not-for-profit organization incorporated pursuant to the laws of Ontario or Canada. - An individual that represents an unincorporated community organization or group that contributes to the well-being of local older adults.Not-for-profit organizations that have been incorporated and in operation since at least April 1, 2024, can apply for up to $25,000. Examples of eligible organizations include:- Municipalities or regional governments.- Local Services Boards.- District Social Services Administration Boards.- Indigenous groups (e.g., band councils, tribal councils, self-governing entities, health access centres, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities or organizations).- Not-for-profit licensed retirement homes.- Public libraries.- Ontario branches of the Royal Canadian Legion.Individuals representing local unincorporated community groups can apply for up to $10,000. The individual must be responsible to the Province for the project’s implementation, financial management, and reporting.

Who is not eligible

This grant excludes certain entities from applying based on their status and main purpose. These restrictions ensure that the funding is allocated to organizations that align with the grant's mission to support seniors in Ontario.

• Agencies, boards, or commissions of the federal or provincial governments.
• Broader public service organizations such as universities, school boards, and hospitals.
• Organizations that primarily fundraise to provide funding to other organizations.
• For-profit organizations.
• Private schools.
• Organizations whose purpose is related to political activity (lobbying), as defined by the Canada Revenue Agency.
• Organizations or individuals currently in default of a provincial government grant.

Eligible expenses

Eligible expenses for the Seniors Community Grant include a variety of costs directly related to the implementation and safety of the project.

• Material costs for workshops, seminars, training, or instructional classes.
• Costs for infection control measures and alternative program delivery formats.
• Admission costs to cultural or learning events.
• Recognition of generic holiday celebrations.
• Space and equipment rental.
• Marketing and advertising, such as website or promotional materials development.
• Personal protective equipment, including masks, gloves, and sanitizer.
• Honorarium for non-employee services.
• Fees for fitness instructors, workshop facilitators, educators, or trainers.
• Portable asset purchases directly related to the project or health and safety of participants.
• Purchase of technology and software for program delivery.
• Human resources costs, including wages allocated to the project.
• Transportation and travel expenses for employees or volunteers in Ontario.
• Catering, meals, and refreshments according to the provincial Travel, Meal and Hospitality Expenses Directive.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is targeted specifically for entities operating within the province of Ontario, Canada. It aims to benefit older adults through services provided by Ontario-based service providers.

• Organizations located in the province of Ontario.
• Entities that provide services within Ontario and directly benefit Ontario's older adults.

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• Applications must be submitted electronically through the Transfer Payment Ontario system, and organizations must be registered in this system to apply.
• Applicants are encouraged to contact a Regional Development Advisor (RDA) early to discuss their application and ensure completeness.
• The program will prioritize applications that focus on engaging underserved and equity-seeking populations.
• The funding program does not support capital expenses or operational activities.
• All complete applications will be screened for eligibility before being scored; ineligible and incomplete applications will not advance.
• Successful applicants will be notified of their approval and grant amount by Summer 2025.
• Acknowledgement of provincial funding is required in any communications related to the project.
• Insurance requirements include listing the "His Majesty the King in Right of Ontario" as an additional insured party.
• Letters of support and partnership letters play a crucial role in demonstrating project viability and support.
• Applicants must measure performance indicators and report using surveys during the project.