Closed
Trails Connecting Communities Program
Matching funding for Simcoe trail projects
Last Update: April 29, 2026
Funding available
$ 100,000
Timeline
- Open Date : January 19, 2026
- Closing date : February 20, 2026
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
The Trails Connecting Communities Program supports trail and active transportation projects in the County of Simcoe. It offers matching funding for eligible municipal projects, including new trails, safety improvements, accessibility upgrades, and planning studies.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Increase social or community impact
- Implement environmental initiatives
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 100,000 $
- Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
- Open Date : January 19, 2026
- Closing date : February 20, 2026
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Public administration
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Development of new trail connections and trail infrastructure
- Trail rehabilitation, realignment, and major safety improvements
- Accessibility upgrades for recreational trails
- Trail planning, feasibility, and strategic mobility studies
- Wayfinding and trail signage projects
Documents Needed
- Completed application form
- Project benefit letter
- Project location map
- Trail specifications outline
- Cost estimate, timelines, and drawings if applicable
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Local municipalities within the County of Simcoe
- Trail organizations partnering with local municipalities
- Projects involving collaboration between multiple municipalities
Who is not eligible
- Applicants who have not completed a previously approved County project
- Organizations applying without a local municipality as the primary applicant
Eligible expenses
- Construction materials and trail infrastructure
- Signage, trail furniture, ramps, shelters, and surfacing materials
- Contracted labour, equipment, and consultant fees
- Technical or feasibility studies and safety equipment
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Municipal employee wages and mileage
- Municipal equipment costs
- Regular resurfacing and maintenance
- Property taxes, insurance, legal, and administration costs
- Food-related expenses and HST
Eligible geographic areas
- Local municipalities within the County of Simcoe, Ontario
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed during the intake period and may be considered based on budget availability and compliance with program criteria.
- Late applications may be considered only if funds remain.
- Successful applicants are notified in writing of the County’s funding commitment.
- Progress updates are required during the project.
- Final completion documents must be submitted to confirm eligibility and funding.
Additional information
- Wayfinding or signage projects must also apply for the Tourism, Culture, & Sport Enhancement Fund.
- Applicants may need permits before construction begins.
- Successful applicants receive written confirmation of funding commitment.
- Project signage must acknowledge the County of Simcoe as a partner.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Trails Connecting Communities Program Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Trails Connecting Communities Program. 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 Trails Connecting Communities Program?
The Trails Connecting Communities Program supports trail and active transportation projects in the County of Simcoe. It offers matching funding for eligible municipal projects, including new trails, safety improvements, accessibility upgrades, and planning studies.
How much funding can be received?
Trails Connecting Communities Program Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $100,000 per project.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for this grant program was February 20, 2026.
Who is eligible for the Trails Connecting Communities Program program?
To be eligible for the Trails Connecting Communities Program program, you must:
Local municipality as primary applicant.
Municipal financial commitment required.
Project must meet trail and accessibility criteria.
What expenses are eligible under Trails Connecting Communities Program?
Development of new trail connections and trail infrastructure
Trail rehabilitation, realignment, and major safety improvements
Accessibility upgrades for recreational trails
Trail planning, feasibility, and strategic mobility studies
Wayfinding and trail signage projects
Who can I contact for more information about the Trails Connecting Communities Program?
You can contact County of Simcoe (EDO) by email at julie.nolan@simcoe.ca or by phone at 705-726-9300 Ext. 1540.
Where is the Trails Connecting Communities Program available?
The Trails Connecting Communities Program program is available the province of Ontario.