Additional Grants and Funding Opportunities
Categories include:
- Accessibility
- Arts, Culture & Heritage
- Climate Change & Sustainability
- Community Development
- Economic Development
- Emergency Services & Safety
- Employment
- Entrepreneurs/ Entrepreneurship
- Housing
- Infrastructure
- Other
- Recreation & Health
- Seniors
- Transportation
Accessibility Funding
Housing Repair and Accessibility Program
Department: Organization: Provincial Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Description:
The Housing Repair and Accessibility Program may fund up to $18,000 of eligible repair costs. For larger repair projects an additional $20,000 may be available as a repayable loan. The applicant or other sources need to fund the remaining balance of the costs.
The funding provides $10,000 as a grant and $8,000 as a forgivable loan. To have the loan forgiven, you must meet the loan conditions.
Eligible repairs
Eligible emergency repairs are repairs or issues in 1 or more of the 4 critical situation categories that represent a hazard to a property or occupants and may result in the occupants having to leave the home.
Eligible health and safety repairs are repairs or issues in 1 or more of the 4 critical situation categories that are less urgent but still require attention.
Critical situation categories include:
- structural
- electrical
- plumbing
- heating
Eligible costs
Eligible costs include:
- material
- labour
- legal fees
- related taxes
Costs are not eligible if you complete the work before you’re approved for the fundind
Eligibility
You can apply for funding if:
- repairs are an emergency or required to maintain the safe occupancy of your home
- you own and have lived in your home where the repairs will be applied for at least 1 year
- your home is at least 5 years old
- you have an annual pre-tax (gross) household income that’s not more than the income limits in the Housing Repair Guide
- you don’t have the financial ability to pay for the repairs on your own based on your pre-tax (gross) household income and investments (households with more than $25,000 in investment assets are not eligible)
- you haven’t received previous housing repair grants in the last 5 years, unless the repairs are eligible emergency repairs
- you haven’t received previous housing repair loans in the last 15 years, unless the repairs are eligible emergency repairs
- your property taxes are paid up to date or you have a payment plan in place with the local government for at least 3 months
- your property value is no more than $360,000 in Halifax Regional Municipality and the County of East Hants or $280,000 in other regions of Nova Scotia
Eligible properties include:
- single-family detached house
- townhouse (semi-detached) or row house
- condominium property (interiors only, not common spaces)
- manufactured (mobile) home where ownership of the unit is verified
You also need to meet any additional eligibility criteria (like repair eligibility) outlined in the Housing Repair Guide.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact:
Toll-free: 1-844-424-5110
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/accessible-housing-program
Arts, Culture & Heritage
Legacy Fund – Building Communities through Arts and Heritage
Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage
Description: The Legacy Fund – Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program provides funding for community-initiated capital projects. Recipients may receive up to 50% of eligible project expenses up to a maximum of $500,000. Funding supports community-initiated capital projects that:
- commemorate a significant local historical event or pay tribute to a significant local historical personality;
- mark a 100th anniversary or greater, in increments of 25 years (e.g., 125th, 150th);
- involve the restoration, renovation, or transformation of existing buildings or exterior spaces with local community significance that are intended for community use;
- Encourage arts and heritage activities in the local community that are intended for and accessible to the general public.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Community engagement: volunteer participation, inclusive planning, accessibility, and visibility of the project.
- Arts/heritage prominence: how the project integrates arts or heritage to raise local profile.
- Partnerships and support: strength of community or municipal backing and shared responsibility.
- Accessibility and sustainability of the completed space/project.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Projects must be submitted before the anniversary date of the event or personality to be commemorated.
Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/building-communities/legacy-fund.html
Exhibition Circulation Fund – Museums Assistance Program
Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage
Description:
The Museums Assistance Program (MAP) supports heritage institutions and workers in the preservation and presentation of heritage collections through several components, each with its own eligibility criteria. The Exhibition Circulation Fund component assists museums with costs related to hosting travelling exhibitions originating from another Canadian non-profit organization, an Indigenous organization, or from a federal heritage institution, and borrowing artifacts for exhibition purposes from federal institutions.
Important Notice:
Due to higher-than-normal volume of applications, funds for the Exhibition Circulation Fund are limited. Applicants are strongly encouraged to speak to the regional program advisor prior to submitting an application.
Program Objectives:
- Assist museums with the costs of hosting travelling exhibitions from Canadian sources
- Support borrowing of artifacts from federal institutions for exhibition purposes
- Facilitate access to heritage across Canada
- Promote the circulation of Canadian travelling exhibitions
Eligible Project Types:
1. Hosting a travelling exhibition: Host a travelling exhibition originating from another Canadian non-profit organization, Indigenous organization, or federal heritage institution (on condition that the same expenses were not reimbursed to the lending institution by MAP as part of the exhibition development/circulation project).
Note: Travelling art exhibitions must meet MAP's heritage-related objectives. Only retrospective exhibitions or those presenting a historical perspective are eligible. For contemporary art exhibitions, organizations may seek support from the Canada Council for the Arts programs.
2. Borrowing artifact(s): Borrow artifact(s) from federal institution for exhibition purposes.
Key Requirements:
-
The program is highly competitive; requests for funding typically exceed available resources
-
Submitting an application does not guarantee funding
-
No yearly limit to the number of projects for which an organization may apply
-
Applications accepted on a continuous basis
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Submit the application about 4 months prior to the project start date
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When possible, apply for funding within the federal fiscal year (April 1 to March 31) of the project
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Expenses incurred before application submission cannot be funded
Eligible expenses for hosting a travelling exhibition:
- Rental fees
- Pro-rated salaries and wages
- Transportation, packing, crating, installing/dismantling exhibition, temporary storage (when necessary)
- Additional security costs
- Additional insurance
- Equipment rental, incremental administration costs, promotion and communication expenses
- Translation of public material in both official languages and other applicable languages
- Creation of education materials, media kits and marketing materials in conjunction with a travelling exhibition
Eligible expenses for borrowing artifact(s):
- Rental fees
- Pro-rated salaries and wages
- Packing, transportation, installation and dismantling
- Special security costs
- Additional insurance
- Marketing
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round
Contact:
Na-mi-quai-ni-mak Community Support Fund
Department: National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
Description: Small grants to support community-based healing and remembrance. The act of remembering will shape generations to come.
Funds are available to support Indigenous communities, Survivor Organizations, registered non-profits, and others with small grants for memorial activities. Communities and Residential School Survivors know what activities best support healing, memorials and remembrance in their communities. The program will support communities in pursuing the activities they feel are best.
Some possible activities could include, but are not limited to:
- Community-led healing gatherings
- Ceremonial activities (memorial feasts, give-aways, etc.)
- Memorial or commemorative markers (healing gardens, murals, carvings, plaques, etc.)
- Maintenance of burial sites (fencing, cutting back overgrowth, etc.).
Contact:
Toll Free: 1-855-415-4534
Ph: 1-204-914-4757
Fax: 1-204-474-7533
Deadline: Open Application Process
Website:https://nctr.ca/memorial/na-mi-quai-ni-mak/na-mi-quai-ni-mak-community-support-fund/
Musication, Musical showcases (exclusively dedicated to French-speaking communities outside Quebec)
Department: Musication
Description: The main objective of this program is to stimulate the programming of Francophone artists from official language minority communities in the context of major events and tours in order to promote the development of their professional careers. It also aims to promote access for Canadian Francophone communities to musical performances in their language.
This first component aims to support artists from the Canadian Francophonie, from Francophone minority communities, selected by an event to present an official showcase, paid or not, in front of professionals. Exceptionally, an association or organization from Francophone communities could take advantage of this program to present a minimum of 3 artists from Francophone minority communities in the context of a major event The same applies to an English-language event held in a province other than Quebec that wishes to present a minimum of 3 artists from Francophone minority communities in the context of its event.
Contact:
514 861- 8444
1 800 861 5561
Deadline: Open Application Process
Website:https://musicaction.ca/programmes/vitrines-musicales-2/volet-1-vitrine-nationale/
Canada Arts Presentation Fund
Department: Government of Canada
Description: The Canada Arts Presentation Fund (CAPF) – Development stream provides financial assistance to support the emergence of arts presenters and presenter-support organizations for underserved communities or artistic practices.
Recognizing the uniqueness and value of Indigenous cultural expression and the richness that cultural diversity brings to the quality of life, we have expanded the eligibility criteria for this component to include unincorporated organizations, as well as ad hoc groups from racialized and Indigenous communities.
Applicants must be:
- not-for-profit organizations, incorporated under the Canada Corporations Act or the Canada Not-For-Profit Corporations Act (or under corresponding provincial or territorial legislation);
- unincorporated organizations, as well as ad hoc groups from ethnocultural and Indigenous communities;
- provincial, territorial or municipal institutions (including agencies and public educational institutions that promote or organize presentation activities for the public); and
- Indigenous peoples’ institutions and Status or Non-Status Indians, Inuit and Métis organizations.
Contact:
Telephone:
819-997-0055
1-866-811-0055 (toll-free)
Deadline: Ongoing basis
Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/arts-presentation-fund/development.html
Local Festivals – Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage
Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage
Description: The program provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists, local artisans, local heritage performers or specialists; and local First Nations, Inuit, and Métis cultural carriers. This includes the celebration of LGBTQ2+ communities and Indigenous cultural celebrations. Applicants may request up to 100 percent of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $200,000.
Deadline:
October 15 – for festivals starting between July 1 and August 31 of the next calendar year.
January 31 – for festivals starting between September 1 and December 31 of the same calendar year.
April 30 – for festivals starting between January 1 and June 30 of the next calendar year.
Website: Local Festivals – Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage
Community Anniversaries
Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage
Description: The program provides funding to local groups for non-recurring local events, with or without a minor capital project. Funding is available for non-recurring events that mark the 100th anniversary or greater, in increments of 25 years (e.g., 125th, 150th); of a significant local historical event or personality. Applicants may request up to 100% of eligible expenses to a maximum of $200,000. See the website for specific requirements of events.
Deadline:
May 31 for events that will occur during the next calendar year.
If the deadline falls on a non-business day or a holiday, it will be extended to the next business day.
Important : Your funding application must be submitted before 11:59 p.m. (ET).
Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/building-communities/anniversaries.html
Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program
Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage
Description: The program provides funding to community-based events that: A) promote intercultural or interfaith understanding. P) Promote discussions on multiculturalism, diversity, racism and religious discrimination. C) celebrate a community’s history and culture, such as heritage months recognized by Parliament. A new priority in the program for 2024 will include celebrations and events that recognize the history, culture, accomplishments, contributions and future of Black Canadians and their communities. Municipalities with a population of up to 10,000 are eligible to apply. You can watch a video here for tips on your application.
*The department has consolidated its two programs, the Community Support, Multiculturalism, and Anti-Racism Initiatives Program and the Anti-Racism Action Program, under a single program.*
Deadline: For the events stream, there is no fixed deadline to submit a funding application; they are accepted continuously. However, to ensure timely assessment, it is advised that your application be submitted 18 weeks before the proposed event start date.
Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/services/funding/multiculturalism-anti-racism.html
Canada Cultural Spaces Fund
Department - Organization: Federal Department of Canadian Heritage
Description: The objectives of the fund are to contribute to improved physical conditions for professional arts and heritage-related collaboration, creation, presentation, preservation, and exhibition; and to increase and improve access for Canadians to arts and culture. The CCSF achieves these objectives by supporting the construction and/or renovation of arts and/or heritage facilities, including creative hubs; and the acquisition of specialized equipment and the development of feasibility studies for the construction or renovation of arts and/or heritage facilities, including creative hubs.
Deadline: Continuous intake
- Contact
Website: Application Guidelines – Canada Cultural Spaces Fund
Legacy Fund
Department - Organization: Department of Canadian Heritage
Description: The program provides funding for community-initiated capital projects that restore, renovate, or transform an existing building or exterior space intended for community use. Recipients may receive up to 50% of eligible project expenses up to a maximum of $500,000.
Example(s): Such as a statue, community hall, monument, garden or work of art.
Deadline: Continuous intake. Projects must be submitted before the anniversary date of the event or personality to be commemorated.
Website: Legacy Fund
McLean Foundation Grant
Department - Organization: The McLean Foundation
Description: They endeavour to maintain a flexible policy, with particular emphasis on projects showing promise of general social benefit but which may initially lack broad public appeal, normally in the areas of social welfare, education, environmental conservation and the arts.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: https://www.grantinterface.ca/Home/Logon?urlkey=mcleanfdn
Tourism Growth Program in Atlantic Canada
Department - Organization: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - ACOA
Description: The Tourism Growth Program (TGP) aims to help Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, small and medium-sized businesses, and non-profit organizations to develop local tourism products and experiences that position Canada as an all-seasons destination of choice for domestic and international travellers.
Eligible applicants include:
- incorporated small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the tourism industry
- Indigenous-owned businesses (including Indigenous sole proprietorships) or Indigenous tourism organizations
- non-profit organizations (NPOs), including tourism associations and organizations, and post-secondary institutions
- governments (municipal/provincial/territorial and related entities)
Eligible activities:
Eligible projects should provide added value to existing activities in the tourism industry and focus on business and economic growth. Priority may be given to projects that:
- Increase tourism benefits for communities by driving visitation from urban centres to rural areas
- Support the Indigenous tourism industry
- Support economic, environmental, and cultural sustainability
- Support active outdoor experiences
- Extend the tourism season (projects that promote and/or develop products, services, or experiences, with an aim to increase tourism activity outside the traditional high season or to extend their services year-round)
- Complement supports provided through provincial/territorial programs
Other activities could be eligible. For further information, please contact us directly.
Example(s): Does not fund capital projects. Previous grantees can be viewed on their website.
Deadline: Continuous intake
1-888-576-4444.
Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/atlantic-canada-opportunities/services/tourism-growth-program.html
Climate Change & Sustainability
Feasibility Study: Green Buildings Pathway
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The program funds detailed feasibility studies for community buildings that map out a step-by-step plan (called a "Green Buildings Pathway") to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% within 10 years and meet energy efficiency targets within 20 years. Studies help municipalities plan retrofit projects while considering building use, budget cycles and equipment replacement schedules.
Key Study Requirements:
- Plan to reduce GHG emissions by at least 50% within 10 years
- Meet climate zone-specific energy efficiency targets within 20 years
- Follow fossil fuel phase-out rules based on location (complete phase-out in warmer zones; backup heating allowed only in extreme cold for northern zones)
- Identify opportunities to reduce water use and ensure fixtures meet efficient flow standards
- Consider climate resilience and future weather impacts
- Include community engagement and analyze local benefits
Building Types Covered:
- Athletic facilities (arenas, pools, gyms)
- Recreation and community centres
- Cultural facilities (libraries, arts centres)
- Municipal buildings, when part of a portfolio that includes community buildings
Deadlines: Applications are accepted year-round
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/study-ghg-reduction-pathway-feasibility
Plan: Net-Zero Transformation
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The program provides grant funding for municipalities to develop high-quality, innovative planning documents that establish a roadmap toward net-zero emissions. These plans must demonstrate innovation, have significant long-term greenhouse gas reduction potential and use integrated planning approaches that translate into actionable outcomes.
To be eligible, proposed plans must demonstrate a high level of innovation in scope or partnerships, use collaborative processes that integrate multiple disciplines and include operationalization strategies that identify implementation requirements such as projected capital needs and alternative engineering standards.
Key Program Requirements:
Innovation: Projects must target significant performance improvements through new knowledge, policy, practice, business models, or advanced technology applications, or represent substantive changes to current operating conditions.
Significant GHG Reduction Potential: Plans must have the potential to generate or enable substantial emissions reductions either directly through project implementation or indirectly by creating enabling conditions like net-zero design guidelines.
Equity Considerations: While not mandatory, preference is given to projects that integrate anti-racism, equity, inclusion and reconciliation principles, apply inclusive community engagement, implement social procurement and generate significant socio-economic benefits.
Multi-solving Approach: Higher evaluation scores are awarded to projects demonstrating excellence in areas such as water conservation, sustainable materials management, biodiversity and meaningful stakeholder engagement.
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/plan-net-zero-transformation
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round.
Study: Net-Zero Transformation
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The program funds feasibility studies that thoroughly assess innovative approaches and solutions with significant GHG reduction potential. These studies determine the practicality and viability of potential solutions, assess impacts and benefits, mitigate risks, identify implementation requirements and recommend specific courses of action.
Studies should equip municipalities with the information needed to undertake pilot projects or implement capital projects in GMF's Net-Zero Transformation suite. Projects must demonstrate innovation through new technologies, business models, or transformative applications of existing solutions.
Study components must include:
- Assessment of GHG impacts of the solution or approach being studied
- Equity assessment examining impacts on equity-deserving groups and mitigation strategies
- Climate risk assessment (required for studies of new infrastructure assets over $2 million)
Eligible study activities:
- Target market or user assessment and technical requirements evaluation
- Financial analysis (cost estimates, revenue projections, ROI, funding options)
- Legal and regulatory context examination
- Organizational capacity evaluation and environmental/social impact assessment
- Detailed project planning and stakeholder engagement
Innovation requirement: Must target significant performance improvement over best practice through development/application of new knowledge, policy, practice, business model, or advanced technology; OR new/emerging application of existing technology representing substantive change.
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/study-net-zero-transformation
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round.
Pilot: Net-Zero Transformation
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The Pilot: Net-Zero Transformation program funds municipalities to test innovative GHG reduction solutions through small-scale, preliminary trials. These pilots are limited in scope, duration and resource commitment, designed to assess how well proposed concepts work in practice and identify potential challenges before full-scale implementation.
Pilot projects can involve comparing several options, testing new materials or processes within larger projects, or applying novel approaches not yet tested in Canada or specific market segments. Projects must lead to quantifiable GHG reductions and demonstrate innovation through new technologies, business models, or transformative applications of existing solutions.
Key application requirements:
- Explain why the solution needs testing before full-scale implementation
- Clearly identify hypotheses or assumptions being tested
- Outline data collection and analysis methods to assess pilot success
- Define decision criteria for proceeding to full-scale implementation
- Articulate what full-scale implementation would look like
- Explain how lessons learned will be applied and shared with others
Innovation criteria: Must demonstrate development/application of new knowledge, policy, practice, business model, or advanced technology; OR new/emerging application of existing technology representing substantive change to current operations.
Additional requirements: Climate resilience compliance, equity considerations and strong replication potential preferred.
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/pilot-net-zero-transformation
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round.
Capital Project: Net-Zero Transformation
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The Capital project: Net-Zero Transformation program provides combined loan and grant funding to support municipalities in constructing innovative infrastructure that has significant potential to contribute to net-zero goals. Projects must demonstrate breakthrough innovation through new technologies, business models, or transformative applications of existing solutions.
This program targets capital projects that are physical assets following generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Projects must show significant greenhouse gas reduction potential either directly through implementation or indirectly by creating enabling conditions for broader emissions reductions.
Key requirements:
- Projects must be innovative, targeting significant performance improvements over best practice
- Must have completed an assessment of GHG reduction potential using verifiable evaluation processes
- Must meet climate resilience requirements (outside 100-year floodplain or with protective measures)
- Projects with new infrastructure over $2 million require a climate risk assessment
- Strong replication potential and clear performance benefits are preferred
Innovation criteria: Projects must demonstrate development/application of new knowledge, policy, practice, business model, or advanced technology; OR new/emerging application of existing technology in a manner representing substantive change to current operations.
Required supporting documents:
- Completed feasibility study (or equivalent)
- Environmental Assessment Executive Summary
- Climate-resilience documentation
- Audited financial statements (non-municipal applicants)
- Evidence of municipal support (e.g., council resolution)
Equity considerations: Preference given to projects integrating anti-racism, equity, inclusion and reconciliation principles, inclusive engagement practices and social procurement.
Contact:
Website:https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/capital-project-net-zero-transformation
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round.
Business Case: Organic Waste-to-Energy
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The program funds municipalities to assess the viability of generating energy from organic waste materials and landfill gas. Business cases help determine whether waste-to-energy systems make practical and economic sense for a specific site or feedstock, while exploring business models and partnerships.
Projects can assess energy generation from landfill gas upgrading, anaerobic digestion of local organic waste, or energy recovery from composting, wastewater, or landfills. The program aims to help municipalities move toward net greenhouse gas reductions while potentially creating additional revenue streams from digestate and fertilizers.
Eligible activities include:
- Evaluation of local organic waste feedstocks and waste-to-energy systems
- Financial analysis and market assessment for energy products
- Site viability evaluation and partnership opportunity assessment
- Environmental, social and economic impact assessment
- Lifecycle assessment of proposed feedstocks (required)
- Stakeholder engagement and regulatory context examination
Key requirements:
- Project must generate energy from landfill gas, anaerobic digestion, or energy recovery systems
- Must result in net GHG emissions reduction compared to the current baseline
- Must create net energy benefit relative to the current baseline
- The business case should prepare the municipality for a potential feasibility study
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/business-case-organic-waste-energy
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round.
Capital Project: Community Energy Systems
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The program provides combined loan and grant funding to support municipalities in constructing low-carbon community energy systems. Projects must deploy systems that mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, create social benefits and integrate into municipal asset management plans.
This funding is specifically for capital projects that build on completed feasibility studies and demonstrate strong community support. The program targets 100% renewable community energy systems with solid financial returns and measurable environmental impact.
Key Program Requirements:
Minimum Project Scale: At least two buildings are required for district energy projects; renewable electricity systems must power multiple systems and buildings.
GHG Reduction Target: Thermal energy projects must reduce emissions by at least 40% compared to current performance, achievable within three years of implementation.
Feasibility Study: Must build on a completed GMF-funded feasibility study or equivalent that assessed technical, financial, environmental, social and economic impacts.
Community Support: Required records of local government council approval and initiation of the impact assessment process, where applicable.
Biomass Restrictions: For grid-connected communities, biomass combustion must be integrated into broader low-carbon district energy systems. Harvested wood is not eligible as fuel source; forest thinning for fire risk mitigation is eligible. Combined heat and power systems with biomass cannot be submitted under this program.
Climate Resilience: New infrastructure assets must be built outside current 100-year floodplains unless protection is demonstrated. Projects over $2 million require Climate Risk Assessments.
Multi-solving Approach: Higher evaluation scores for projects demonstrating excellence in sustainable materials management, biodiversity, socio-economic benefits and meaningful stakeholder engagement
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/capital-project-community-energy-systems
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round
Study: Community Energy Systems
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The program provides grant funding for municipalities to conduct comprehensive feasibility studies that assess the technical, financial, environmental, social and economic impacts of proposed community energy systems. These studies are essential groundwork for future capital projects and help municipalities make informed decisions about renewable energy investments.
Eligible studies include assessments of renewable energy generation (solar, wind, biomass), district energy systems, energy recovery projects and integrated community energy solutions. Studies must demonstrate innovation, significant greenhouse gas reduction potential and strong community engagement approaches.
Key Program Requirements:
Innovation: Projects should strive to demonstrate innovation through new knowledge, policy, practice, business models, or advanced technology applications that represent substantive improvements over current best practices.
Minimum Project Scale: At least two buildings are required for district energy projects; renewable electricity systems should be able to power multiple systems and buildings.
Significant GHG Reduction Potential: Studies must assess projects with potential for substantial long-term greenhouse gas reductions, either directly through energy system implementation or indirectly by creating enabling conditions.
Integrated Planning Approach: Must use collaborative processes that integrate multiple disciplines and stakeholder perspectives to develop comprehensive energy solutions.
Implementation Strategy: Studies must include operationalization strategies identifying implementation requirements, projected capital and operational costs, and alternative approaches.
Community Engagement: Required meaningful consultation with stakeholders and rights holders, with preference for inclusive engagement practices that consider equity-deserving groups.
Climate Resilience: For studies involving new infrastructure, must address climate resilience considerations and flood risk management where applicable.
Multi-solving Benefits: Higher evaluation scores for studies that assess multiple benefits, including sustainable materials management, biodiversity impacts and socio-economic outcomes.
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/study-community-energy-systems
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round
Capital Project: Green Buildings Pathway Retrofit
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The program provides combined loan and grant funding for municipalities to retrofit community buildings that implement one or more phases of a Green Buildings Pathway as defined in a completed feasibility study. Projects must be supported by a Green Buildings Pathway feasibility study and demonstrate community support through council resolutions and appropriate impact assessment processes.
Key Project Requirements:
- Based on the completed Green Buildings Pathway feasibility study
- Must include at least one retrofit phase from the pathway
- Projects sequenced to achieve 50% GHG reductions within 10 years and energy efficiency targets within 20 years
- Follow fossil fuel phase-out rules based on location
- Include community engagement and impact assessment processes
Eligible Buildings:
Projects must include at least one community building owned by a municipality or not-for-profit organization. Community buildings are enclosed public places or workplaces that are:
- Owned by a municipal government or not-for-profit organization
- Primarily used to provide athletic, recreational, cultural and community programs or services to the local community
- Widely accessible to everyone, offering services that enhance health, well-being, skills development and economic development
Building types include:
- Indoor ice rinks, sports arenas, and swimming pools
- Community and recreational centres (community centres, clubhouses, seniors' centres, clubs, recreation centres, gyms, halls, curling rinks)
- Arts and culture facilities (cultural facilities, performing arts facilities, art galleries, auditoriums)
- Libraries
- Multi-purpose buildings that include community functions along with other services or administrative functions
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/capital-project-ghg-reduction-pathway-retrofit
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round
Capital Project: GHG Impact Retrofit
Department – Organization: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The Capital Project: GHG Impact Retrofit provides combined loan and grant funding to help municipalities and municipal partners retrofit community buildings to achieve at least a 30% reduction in GHG emissions from baseline performance. Projects can involve a single community building or a portfolio of buildings.
Eligible projects include retrofits targeting:
- Single community buildings achieving 30% GHG reduction
- Portfolios of multiple community buildings within the same municipality
- Portfolios including at least one community building, plus other non-community municipal buildings
- Similar community buildings across multiple municipalities (subject to GMF review)
Eligible Community Buildings: Community buildings are enclosed public places or workplaces owned by municipalities or not-for-profit organizations, primarily used to deliver athletic, recreational, cultural and community programs. Examples include:
- Athletic facilities (indoor rinks, arenas, pools, gyms)
- Recreational facilities (recreation centres, clubhouses)
- Cultural facilities (performing arts centres, galleries, libraries)
- Community centres, seniors centres, halls
Key Project Requirements:
- Must reduce GHG emissions by at least 30% compared to baseline
- Baseline performance may be estimated where retrofits change building size or function
- GMF validates baseline calculations provided in feasibility studies
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/capital-project-ghg-impact-retrofit
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round
Climate-Ready Infrastructure Service
Department: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
Description:
The Climate-Ready Infrastructure Service (CRIS) is a federally supported national program that provides no-cost expert advisory support to help small communities integrate climate resilience and low-carbon solutions into housing and infrastructure projects.
Administered by the Canadian Urban Institute and funded by the Government of Canada’s Housing, Infrastructure and Communities department, CRIS connects local governments and Indigenous communities with climate and infrastructure experts who deliver in-kind professional consulting at no charge.
CRIS offers three types of expert support:
- Climate Adaptation: Provides guidance to ensure construction or retrofit projects are resilient to flooding, sea-level rise, or extreme weather (e.g., designing a seawall or trail to withstand future high tides).
- Climate Mitigation: Offers advice to improve energy efficiency, incorporate renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in new facilities.
- Combined Low-Carbon and Resilience: Supports projects that both cut emissions and enhance resilience, such as a low-carbon community facility designed to serve as a “resilience hub” during wildfires, flooding, or extreme heat.
By delivering expert services instead of direct funding, CRIS helps communities future-proof their infrastructure while reducing emissions and building resilience without adding financial burden to local budgets.
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round
Website: https://climatereadycanada.ca/
Thriving Forests Program
Department - Organization: Clean Foundation
Description: Thriving Forests is a sister program to the federal 2Billion Trees program. This program can help municipalities develop projects and connect them with service suppliers and local seed stock inventory. All projects must be planting incremental trees, meaning above and beyond any current legally-required tree planting activities, and not be part of business-as-usual commercial forestry activities.
Example(s): Examples of successful projects may include (but are not limited to): Reforesting an area after a wildfire, reforesting an urban area that has fallen to disease, afforestation on retired agricultural land, restoration of legacy forest landings or forest roads, urban planting projects, initiatives to improve biodiversity and habitat resilience, reforesting an area where disturbances impact a critical habitat, infill planting or underplanting to increase biodiversity of an area.
Deadline: Open for expression of interest
Website: Thriving Forests Program
Incentives for Medium- and Heavy-Duty Zero-Emission Vehicles
Department - Organization: Transport Canada
Description: The iMHZEV Program offers point-of-sale incentives for Canadian organizations and businesses (this includes municipalities) that buy or lease an eligible MHZEV. The incentive will be applied at the point-of-sale by the dealership or other authorized sellers such as automakers and/or vehicle finishers/distributors, once they have confirmed your eligibility. As part of the eligibility verification, you will need to complete the Organization Consent Form. Once your eligibility is confirmed, you will need to complete the Incentive Received Form, and then, the incentive will appear directly on the bill of sale or lease agreement of the eligible MHZEVs.
You can search for eligible vehicles here.
Deadline: Rebates are provided on a first-come, first-served basis and will remain available until the program budget is exhausted.
Website: https://tc.canada.ca/en/road-transportation/innovative-technologies/zero-emission-vehicles/incentives-medium-heavy-duty-zero-emission-vehicles
Climate Ready Infrastructure Service
Department - Organization: Environment and Climate Change Canada
Description: CRIS is a new capacity-building initiative that connects local governments and communities with top climate experts. This free service (worth $20k+) aims to help municipalities across Canada integrate low-carbon resilience into their infrastructure projects, ensuring that they are better prepared to address the challenges of a changing climate. Experts include engineers, architects, planners, climate scientists, climate equity specialists with RP credentials, LEED accreditation, ISI, Envision certification and more. Complete the online form (Takes 10 minutes).
Eligibility: Local communities with a population of approximately 30,000 or less are eligible, including an Indigenous Governing Body or authority, or unincorporated communities within a regional district.
Examples:
- Climate Adaptation: If your community has plans to construct or retrofit housing or infrastructure, CRIS experts can help bring leading science to ensure that the project is resilient to climate change impacts. For example, if a community plans to replace a seawall or riverside bike/pedestrian path, experts from the roster can help to evaluate the conditions and offer options to reduce the likelihood that the new path is destroyed by future high tides or flooding.
- Climate Mitigation: If your community is building a new community facility, experts from the service can help to ensure it is being designed to be energy efficient, utilize renewable energy sources, or be a low-carbon facility in other ways.
- Combination Low-Carbon and Climate Resilience: Projects may offer opportunities to both address climate-related risks and to use renewable energy and low-carbon materials. For instance, a low-carbon new community facility may also be located and designed to serve as a ‘resilience hub’ or
Deadline: Currently accepting projects.
Contact: Complete the online form. Questions contact:
Website: https://climatereadycanada.ca/apply-now
Natural Asset Management Roadmap
Department - Organization: Intact Public Entities/ Natural Assets Initiative
Description: Intact Public Entities (IPE) has announced a new partnership with Natural Assets Initiative (NAI) to sponsor the Natural Asset Management Roadmap Program for municipalities (for those insured by Intact). Developed and led by NAI, the program provides direction, support and guidance to local governments as they develop roadmaps to account for natural assets in their asset management strategies. Roadmaps have proven to be a relatively low-effort, high-impact activity requiring no more than a few days of effort for the project lead and a few hours from the other staff participants; yet it provides a strong foundation for participants to get started on Natural Asset Management with confidence that they are on the right track.
Deadline: Open call for EOI
Website: https://www.intactpublicentities.ca/natural-asset-management-roadmap-program
2Billion Trees
Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada
Description: The program provides financial support to organizations to plant trees over 10 years. Please also see the Clean Foundation's sister program, the Thriving Forests Program.
Deadline: Open call for proposals
Website: 2Billion Trees
Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities
Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada
Description: Provides funding for clean energy projects in rural and remote communities. Including biomass heating, district heating, and combined heat and power systems. There is also a stream for research, development, and demonstration projects. A rural community is defined as a community with a population of fewer than 5,000 people and a population density of fewer than 400 persons per square kilometre and not connected to the North American piped natural gas network. A remote community refers to a community not currently connected to the North American electrical grid or the piped natural gas network, and is a permanent or long-term (5 years or more) settlement with at least 10 dwellings.
Example(s): Fort Nelson, BC: This investment will focus on community energy planning, feasibility modelling, design, permitting and resource assessment to support a geothermal electricity generation project under the Emerging Renewable Power Program.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact: https://forms-formulaires.alpha.canada.ca/en/id/clj8xxq1o00bsyq658jldwr5l
Website: Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities
Energy Rebates & Solutions
Department - Organization: Efficiency Nova Scotia
Description: These programs include rebates for a variety of measures to make municipal operations more efficient. Non-electric retrofits, which allow for the installation of heat pumps in municipal buildings. For many smaller municipalities, all of their facilities (except water and wastewater treatment facilities, arenas and indoor pools) will likely qualify for this program. There is also support for engineered studies and models. You can use their online form to explain what you’re looking to achieve.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: Energy Rebates & Solutions
Environmental Damages Fund
Department - Organization: Environment and Climate Change Canada
Description: Supports projects that benefit the natural environment, achieve restoration of damage to the natural environment and wildlife conservation, in a cost-effective way. Priority is given to projects that restore the natural environment and conserve wildlife, followed by environmental quality improvement initiatives, research and development on environmental restoration and improvement, education and awareness on issues affecting the health of the natural environment.
Example(s): Install reef balls in the Halifax Harbour to create and restore marine habitat. These reef balls will complete a network of over 7.5 hectares of reef structures in Halifax Harbour.
Deadline: There is now an open call for applications.
Website: Environmental Damages Fund
Farm Credit Canada Community Fund
Department - Organization: Farm Credit Canada
Description: FCC Community Funding is to help enhance communities. Eligible organizations can apply for up to $10,000 in FCC Community Funding annually and applications are accepted year-round.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: Farm Credit Canada Community Fund
Green Freight Program
Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada
Description: The program will help fleets reduce their fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from on-road freight through fleet energy assessments, fleet retrofits, engine repowers, best-practice implementation and the purchase of low-carbon vehicles. There are two streams; municipal governments are listed as eligible applicants on both streams. Stream 1 of the program provides grant funding up to a maximum of $250,000 per Applicant. Stream 2 contributes up to 50% of total project costs, up to a maximum of $5 million per project.
Example(s): Stream 1 includes Third-Party Fleet Energy Assessments; and/or Truck/Trailer Equipment Retrofits. Stream 2: They can include, but are not limited to, the purchase of fueling equipment and costs associated with site preparation and networking equipment; however, land is not considered an eligible expenditure under this program. The retrofitting or upgrading of existing capital assets is included under this stream.
Deadline: Stream 1 is a continuous intake
Website: Green Freight Program
Max Bell Foundation Grants
Department - Organization: Max Bell Foundation
Description: The Max Bell Foundation makes grants to support projects that are designed to inform public policy. They do so across four program areas: Education, Environment, Health & Wellness, and Civic Engagement and Democratic Institutions. A typical project supported by the Max Bell Foundation ranges from 1-3 years in duration and has a budget that ranges from approximately $10,000 to $200,000. The Max Bell Foundation is often the only financial supporter of the projects they fund. Not for building or service delivery, it is for projects that inform public policy. You can view previous grants awarded here: https://www.maxbell.org/about-us/grants-database/
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact: Contact Form
Website: Max Bell Foundation Grants
McLean Foundation Grant
Department - Organization: The McLean Foundation
Description: They endeavour to maintain a flexible policy, with particular emphasis on projects showing promise of general social benefit but which may initially lack broad public appeal. Normally in the areas of social welfare, education, environmental conservation and the arts.
Deadline: Continuous
Website: https://www.grantinterface.ca/Home/Logon?urlkey=mcleanfdn
Municipal Adoption Fund
Department - Organization: Divert Nova Scotia
Description: Divert NS provides support for municipalities and/or waste management regions that wish to adopt a waste diversion program previously established in Nova Scotia.
Deadline: Continuous intake. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their Regional Coordinator in advance of submitting their application.
Example(s): Curbside collection and recycling of textiles, Green cart collection of pet waste, Curbside collection and recycling of expanded polystyrene, Implementation of a reuse center, Curbside collection and recycling of small scrap metal.
Contact: Regional coordinator (To be updated ASAP)
Website: Municipal Adoption Fund
Municipal Efficiency Fund
Department - Organization: Divert Nova Scotia
Description: Divert NS provides support for increasing efficiency in the municipal solid waste-resource management system of Nova Scotia. The fund will support municipalities in researching, developing and implementing efficiency projects.
.Example(s): Eligible projects under the program could include: Projects assessing the feasibility of shared services or regional collaboration. Projects that create new processes, systems and services or improve substantially those already in existence. Examples of past research can be found here.
Contact: Regional coordinator (To be updated ASAP)
Website: Municipal Efficiency Fund
Deadline: Continuous intake. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact their Regional Coordinator in advance of submitting their application
Tree Planting
Description: This funding opportunity is offered under the Growing Canada's Community Canopies initiative. The program funds a combination of tree planting activities to meet local needs while maximizing benefits through strategic tree planting.
Projects with planting that supports environmental, economic and social objectives are more likely to receive funding. All projects require municipal government involvement and accountability.
Eligible Tree Planting Activities:
- Street tree planting: Thoughtful placement of trees along public streets, enhancing aesthetics, providing shade, improving air quality and reducing noise
- Urban planting: Planting in areas with low canopy cover to lower temperatures and lessen the urban heat island effect
- Park tree planting: Establishing new groves and revitalizing existing tree stands in public parks, keeping green spaces healthy and biodiverse
- Riparian planting: Planting in flood-prone areas to increase soil infiltration and stability
- Forest restoration and reforestation: Rehabilitating areas that have experienced die-offs caused by pests or wildfires
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/tree-planting
Deadline: June 16, 2026
Community Development
R. Howard Webster Foundation
Department - Organization: R. Howard Webster Foundation
Description: The R. Howard Webster Foundation makes grants to outstanding Canadian charitable organizations offering unique and inspiring programs or projects for the benefit, improvement and development of Canadian society. The R. Howard Webster Foundation’s funding interests are within the areas of Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, Medical, and Social Services.
Example(s): Does not fund capital projects. Previous grantees can be viewed on their website.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: R. Howard Webster Foundation
RBC Community Investment Fund
Department – Organization: Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) / RBC Foundation
Description: RBC’s Community Investment program provides funding for innovative, expanding, and ongoing community projects through four main streams. The program supports initiatives that align with one or more of RBC’s core impact areas: climate/environment, skills and jobs for the future and community prosperity.
Funding Streams & Details:
- Seed – Supports new or early-stage initiatives to incubate innovative ideas.
Provides up to $1,000,000 (maximum $500,000 per year) for projects up to 2 years in duration. RBC can fund up to 100% of the project budget (no more than 20% of the organization’s total operating budget).
Purpose: Helps launch experimental or untested approaches. - Scale – For proven projects aiming to expand their reach or impact.
Provides up to $1,500,000 (maximum $500,000 per year) for projects up to 3 years. RBC will fund up to 50% of the project budget (up to 20% of the operating budget).
Purpose: Helps successful initiatives serve more people or new areas. - Sustain – For ongoing, established programs that require long-term support.
Provides up to $2,500,000 (maximum $500,000 per year) for projects up to 5 years. RBC covers up to 25% of the project budget (up to 20% of the operating budget).
Purpose: Maintains established projects with lasting community impact. - Respond – For immediate or urgent community needs, such as disaster relief or crisis response.
Provides up to $500,000 for projects up to 1 year. Generally, funds up to 20% of the organization’s operating budget.
Purpose: Rapid deployment for urgent or short-term critical issues.
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round with a typical response time of 90 days.
Eligibility: Canadian registered charities, non-profits and qualified donees (including municipalities, Indigenous governments and public institutions).
How to Apply: Applications must be submitted online via the RBC Community Investment Portal.
Website: https://www.rbc.com/our-impact/apply-for-funding/community-investments-canada.html
Community Development Fund (CDF)
Description: Community Development Fund Loans offer Additional financial assistance up to $225,000 in the form of repayable loans to businesses and offer financial assistance in terms of loans or bridge financing to non-profit associations.
Deadline: Ongoing
Website: https://www.cbdc.ca/en/programs/community-development-fund-cdf
Contact:
Tel: (902) 258-3698
Fax: (902) 258-3689
Hours:
Monday to Friday
8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
TD Ready Commitment
Department – Organization: TD Bank Group
Description: TD Ready Commitment provides community donations and sponsorships to municipalities, registered charities, Indigenous communities and non-profits for programs and events that deliver measurable community outcomes under four drivers: Connected Communities, Vibrant Planet, Financial Security and Better Health. Eligible projects can include:
- Inclusive community events, arts/culture programming and place-making (Connected Communities)
- Urban greening, parks/tree planting, habitat restoration and low-carbon initiatives (Vibrant Planet)
- Financial literacy, youth employment/skills training and newcomer economic inclusion (Financial Security)
- Mental-wellbeing, active living and health-equity access initiatives delivered with community partners (Better Health)
Key Parameters & Terms:
- Typical request range: from $1,000 to over $1,000,000, depending on project and budget.
- Normally no more than 20% of your annual operating budget can be covered.
- Usually no more than 15% of the grant can go to admin/overhead (program delivery costs don’t count as admin).
- For large grants ($500,000+), up to 20% may go to capital tied to the initiative and up to 10% for evaluation.
- Only one request per organization per year.
Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed four times a year (January, April, July, October).
Eligibility: Canadian registered/incorporated charities and not-for-profits, municipalities, and Indigenous communities.
How to Apply: Submit online via TD’s Grants portal
Website: https://www.td.com/ca/en/about-td/ready-commitment
Atlantic Lottery – Community Initiatives Sponsorship
Department – Organization: Atlantic Lottery Corporation
Description: Sponsorship funding for public events and community initiatives across Atlantic Canada that align with culture and heritage, community and economic development, or wellness. Examples include community/cultural celebrations, festivals and large events, and civic/charitable initiatives that bring people together and deliver positive social and economic impact. Branding and on-site activation opportunities are part of the sponsorship.
Key Parameters & Terms:
- Sponsorship amounts typically start at $2,500, with final amounts varying based on the size and scope of the event.
- Applications are evaluated on how well they align with Atlantic Lottery’s themes (Culture and Heritage, Community and Economic Development, Wellness), the reach of the event and opportunities for visibility and engagement.
Deadline: Quarterly review cycles; apply by Dec 1, Mar 1, Jun 1, Sep 1.
Eligibility: Public community initiatives held in Atlantic Canada. Municipal civic initiatives and events delivered by registered charities and incorporated non-profits are within scope.
How to Apply: Submit online via Atlantic Lottery’s sponsorship application form.
Website: https://www.alc.ca/content/alc/en/corporate/giving-back/sponsorships.html
Economic Development Funding
CanExport Community Investments
Department – Organization: Trade Commissioner Service
Description: The CanExport Community Investments program provides financial support to Canadian communities to help attract, retain and expand foreign direct investment (FDI). The program funds activities that promote communities to international investors, build investment readiness and generate new jobs and innovation.
Key Parameters & Terms:
- Funding level: Up to 50% of eligible costs
- Funding range: $3,000 – $500,000 per project
- Eligible activities include:
- Strategic FDI planning, analysis and community data collection
- Marketing tools, investment profiles, websites and promotional videos
- FDI training for economic development staff
- Lead generation, investor meetings and talent attraction missions
Deadline: Will be accepting applications for the 2026-27 call year from January 5 to 30, 2026.
Eligibility: Municipal governments, community-level organizations and non-profits with a mandate to attract, expand, or retain foreign direct investment (FDI).
How to Apply: Applicants must complete the online application form and submit required documentation through the CanExport Communities portal.
Website: CanExport Community Investments
Innovation Rebate Program
Department - Organization: Invest Nova Scotia
Description: The Innovation Rebate Program (IRP) provides financial incentives for projects that assist Nova Scotia companies as they scale to increase their competitiveness.
The program supports companies as they innovate, drive productivity, increase production capacity, and adopt cleaner and more sustainable approaches to growth across Nova Scotia.
The Innovation Rebate Program works as a rebate against a company’s direct costs.
Deadline: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. Projects must be completed within 3 years from the date an application is approved.
Contact: Cape Breton, Richmond, Inverness, Victoria, contact: Wanda MacLean 902.227.7144
Duties Relief Program
Department - Organization: Canada Border Services Agency
Description: The Duties Relief Program from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) allows qualified companies to import commercial goods without paying duties, as long as those goods are eventually exported. As part of the program, companies can manufacture or use the commercial goods in a limited manner before export.
Eligibility:
To qualify for the program, your company must import commercial goods under the following conditions:
- The goods are later exported as-is, or
- The goods are used to produce other goods for export
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/import/ddr-red/relief-report-eng.html
Drawback Program
Department - Organization: Canada Border Services Agency
Description:
The Drawback Program can help Canadian companies compete in export markets by removing the domestic duty impact from their commercial goods. The program grants a drawback (refund) of duties that were paid on imported goods if:
- The goods are eventually exported in the same condition, or
- The goods are consumed or expended through a manufacturing process and eventually exported
Additionally, Canadian companies may have commercial goods that are eligible for drawbacks under the Obsolete or Surplus Goods Program. The purpose of this program is to help Canadian companies compete internationally by reducing the export costs on valueless goods that will not enter the domestic market.
Eligibility:
To qualify for the program, your company must import commercial goods under the following conditions:
- The goods are later exported as-is, or
- The goods are used to produce other goods for export
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/import/ddr-red/drawback-eng.html
Emergency Services & Safety
Ship Fund
Department - Organization: Ship and Rail Compensation Canada
Description: Compensates anyone affected by oil spills from ships or boats anywhere in Canadian waters. Over the past 36 years, it has provided $29 million in compensation to Canadians, including $1 million to municipalities. It covers clean-up and response costs, property damage, environmental measures, economic loss, and other losses. Most claimants do not need to go to court or hire a lawyer. Oil doesn’t necessarily need to be spilled; the Ship Fund also compensates responders who have taken steps to prevent a spill.
Deadline: Most Claims need to be submitted within two years of the incident.
Website: https://ship-rail.gc.ca/
Rail Fund
Department - Organization: Ship and Rail Compensation Canada
Description: Compensates anyone affected by major rail accidents involving crude oil. Compensation from the Rail Fund is available once the railway company involved in the accident has exceeded its limit of liability. It covers clean-up and response costs, personal injuries and death, property damage, environmental measures, economic and other losses. To date, no rail accident has activated the Rail Fund, so claims are not currently accepted. However, the Rail Fund actively monitors accidents involving crude oil and is ready to respond to a high volume of claims.
Deadline: Most claims need to be submitted within three years of the accident.
Website: https://ship-rail.gc.ca/
Access to Justice in Both Official Languages Support Fund
Department - Organization: Department of Justice Canada
Description:
- Support for Official Language Minority Communities: Boost the supply of legal information and socio-legal support services for official language minority communities, with an emphasis on vulnerable populations within those communities.
- Support for the Justice System: Strengthen the bilingual capacity of the justice system through language training, professional development and promotion of the language of law.
Examples:
- Promote awareness, information and training about issues related to access to justice in both official languages.
- Develop and disseminate jurilinguistic and legal tools.
- Undertake research to the benefit of official language minority communities.
- Provide legal information and socio-legal support services to official language minority communities, with an emphasis on vulnerable populations within those communities.
- Provide advanced training focusing on legal terminology for bilingual justice professionals.
- Provide continuing professional education to people working within the justice system in a minority official language.
- Contribute to the development of a curriculum for bilingual students interested in pursuing a career in the field of justice.
- Elaborate on a recruitment strategy and the promotion of justice-related careers.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact: For more information on the Support Fund and on how to submit a funding application, please write to
Website: Support Fund
Civil Forfeiture Grant Program
Department - Organization: NS Dept of Department of Justice, Public Safety and Security
Description: The Civil Forfeiture Grant Program provides one-time funding to organizations that support eligible victims of crime and targeted crime prevention initiatives across Nova Scotia. The Program is funded from the disposition of forfeited property seized by law enforcement agencies.
Example(s): The Two Peas in a Pod mentorship program targets at-risk youth who may be vulnerable to becoming involved in gang activities. This program matches at-risk youth with a peer mentor to spend 2-3 hours per week to engage in pro-social activities such as sport, tutoring and volunteering. It is expected that 30 youth in this program will become more engaged with their schoolwork and family.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: https://novascotia.ca/just/civil-forfeiture-grant-program.asp
Canada Community Security Program
Department - Organization: Public Safety Canada
Description:
The Canada Community Security Program (CCSP) provides time-limited funding and support for communities at risk of hate-motivated incidents and hate-motivated crimes to enhance physical security at their gathering spaces. The program is based on Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, which emphasize proactive security measures that enhance safety without creating physical barriers that isolate a site.
Program Objectives
All applications must demonstrate how the proposed project meets at least one of the following objectives:
- Reduce and mitigate harm caused by incidents of hate-motivated crime in targeted areas
- Equip target communities to address risk of hate-motivated crime at community gathering spaces
- Increase awareness of particular challenges faced by communities at risk of hate-motivated crimes
How the Program Works
- CCSP funds up to 70% of eligible costs
- Recipients cover the remaining 30% of project costs
- Recipients can use other government funding sources as long as the total government funding does not exceed 100% for the same eligible expense
- Funding transferred through either a grant or a contribution (Public Safety Canada determines the mechanism)
- Contributions are generally provided as reimbursement upon project completion
- Any work or purchases conducted prior to the signature of the funding agreement with Public Safety Canada are not reimbursable (unless the recipient receives written authorization)
Eligible Project Activities
- Purchasing and/or installing modest security equipment and hardware
- Completing minor renovations to the entrance/lobby area or the perimeter of the site for security enhancement
- Developing security assessments, security plans, emergency contingency plans and evacuation plans through certified security professionals
- Providing training activities on security equipment use and how to prepare for and respond to hate-motivated incidents through certified security professionals
- Providing time-limited third-party licensed security personnel (up to 90 days)
Eligible Expenses (Five Categories)
1. Physical Security Enhancement Equipment:
- Protective barriers and lighting (fencing, gates, bollards, exterior security lighting, security-grade window film)
- Anti-graffiti spray
- Intrusion detection systems (alarm systems, glass break sensors, motion sensors)
- Physical access control (locking devices, key card systems)
- Video surveillance (cameras, NVRs, monitors)
- Labour and installation costs
2. Minor Renovations and Supplementary Equipment:
- Reinforced doors
- Window reinforcements for security purposes
- Fire monitoring (limited to panels and related sensors)
- Notification and warning systems (public address systems, intercoms, panic buttons)
- Labour and installation costs
- Reasonable renovations directly related to enhancing building security (limited to main entrances or lobbies)
- Limited landscaping to address vulnerabilities identified in security assessment
3. Planning (by certified security professional):
- Security (vulnerability) assessments of the project site
- Development/enhancement of security plans and protocols
- Development/enhancement of emergency contingency plans
- Development/enhancement of evacuation/shelter-in-place/hold and secure plans
4. Training:
- On-site or online pre-developed security training relevant to responding to or preparing for hate-motivated incidents
- Training on the newly installed equipment use
5. Security Personnel:
- Contracted time-limited (up to 90 days) third-party licensed security personnel or off-duty police officers during increased risk periods
- Not intended to cover routine security needs, core or ongoing operating expenses
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be a private, not-for-profit organization at risk of hate-motivated incidents/crimes
- Must belong to one of seven eligible recipient classes (see below)
- Must demonstrate risk of hate-motivated incidents and/or crimes
- An organization may qualify even if never experienced a hate-motivated incident, as long as it meets the minimum eligibility requirements
Eligible Recipient Classes (7 types)
- Places of Worship
- Community Centres
- Provincially/Territorially Recognized Educational Institutions
- Shelters serving victims of gender-based violence
- Offices and administrative spaces
- Cemeteries
- Child Care Centres
Deadline: Continuous
Contact:
Funding for Employment Opportunities:
Core Startup Program
Department - Organization: Futurpreneur
Description: Futurpreneur is here to empower aspiring young entrepreneurs on their journey to success! Our Core Startup Program provides loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, with added access to tools and networking opportunities across Canada. This is a flexible, equity-free startup business loan of up to $75,000, including up to $50,000 in financing from BDC.* and up to two years of mentorship *conditions apply. Core Startup Program
Eligibility
- You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18 to 39 when you submit your application.
- You must demonstrate some training or experience in your field
- You must be able to demonstrate that you have experience working in your industry and related to your business idea.
- You cannot be a contractor or an agent
To apply, you cannot be an agent or contractor working for another existing business.
Additional eligibility requirements :
https://futurpreneur.ca/en/eligibility/
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: 902.440-7266
Website: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/core-startup/
Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP)
Department - Organization: Futurpreneur
Description: Futurpreneur empowers aspiring young Indigenous entrepreneurs on their journey to success. The Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program (IESP) provides start-up loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, supported by a team with lived experience, offering access to tools and networking. The IESP is designed and operated by an Indigenous team that understands the barriers to success faced by young and aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs. IESP provides startup loan financing and up to two years of mentorship, supported by a team with lived experience, offering access to tools and networking opportunities across Canada. IESP offers A flexible equity-free startup business loan of up to $75,000* available to Indigenous entrepreneurs (including those on reserve). *Conditions apply
Eligibility:
- You must self-identify as Indigenous
- Indigenous entrepreneurs who self-identify as members of other communities are also welcome to apply for support from Futurpreneur.
- You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39
- When you apply, you must be within the stated age range in order to be eligible.
- You are looking to launch a business or have been operating your business for less than two years
- To be eligible, your business must not yet be operational or can only have been operating full-time for 24 months or less.
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: 902.440-7266
Website:https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/indigenous-entrepreneur-startup/
Black Entrepreneur Startup Program
Department - Organization: Futurpreneur
Description: " We understand that starting your own business can come with its challenges, which is why we're excited to introduce our Black Entrepreneur Startup Program (BESP)! This program is specifically designed to support young Black entrepreneurs on their journey to success." " Our team, who have their own lived experience, is here to guide you every step of the way. With BESP, you can access flexible financing, along with expert mentoring and other resources to help kickstart your business and make it thrive. This is a flexible startup business loan of up to $75,000*. With up to $40,000 in additional financing opportunities from Futurpreneur* *, some conditions apply."
Eligibility:
- You must self-identify as Black
- To participate in this program, participants must self-identify as Black. Intersectionality is also welcomed, eg, those who identify as Black and Indigenous are also welcome to apply.
- You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18-39
- You must physically reside in Canada and be between the ages of 18 and 39 at the time of application.
- You are looking to launch a business or have been operating your business for less than two years
- To be eligible, your business must not yet be operational or can only have been operating full-time for 24 months or less.
- The business must be majority Black-owned
- When there are only two partners (owners) of the applicant business, the business must be majority Black-owned (> 50%). When there are more than two partners (owners), the business must be at least 25% Black-owned (≥25%).
Additional eligibility requirements :
https://futurpreneur.ca/en/eligibility/
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: 902.440-7266
Website: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/black-entrepreneur-startup/
Side Hustle Program
Department - Organization: Futurpreneur
Description: " Our Side Hustle Program offers you up to $25,000 in financing to help you launch or grow your side business and keep your full-time job. You can also benefit from mentoring and business planning tools to help you grow your side hustle and take it to the next level."
Eligibility:
- You must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada
- You must physically reside in Canada.
- You are between the ages of 18-39
- At the time of your application, you must be within the stated age range to be eligible.
- You have a full-time income outside of your side business
- For the next 12 months, your side business will remain your secondary source of income
Additional eligibility requirements :
https://futurpreneur.ca/en/eligibility/
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: 902.440-7266
Website: https://futurpreneur.ca/en/offering/side-hustle/
PARO Lending Circle
Department - Organization: PARO
Description: " A Microfinance Program for Women- PARO Prosper Peer Lending Circles are small groups of like-minded women who meet regularly to share their experiences and expand their individual networks of contacts. PARO Prosper Lending Circles helps women connect and network with other enterprising women. Today, the PARO Prosper Circles Program is the strongest Peer Lending program in North America. One of the key elements of a Prosper Lending Circle is that members also gain access to support and loans ranging from $1000 to $5,000. Prosper Lending Circle members are involved in reviewing and approving loan applications from PARO members in their own circle. Peer loans have helped many members of Circles to grow their businesses and set new goals for the future. "
Eligibility:
A Prosper Circle loan could be the solution for you if:
- You have a poor or no credit history
- The loan amount you are aiming for is too low to be considered by a bank
- You don’t trust typical financial institutions
- You want to avoid credit card debt
- You want to take advantage of additional funds.
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: or call 807 625-0328.
Website: https://paro.ca/paro-circles/
Canada Retraining and Opportunities Initiative - Funding Program
Department - Organization: Government of Canada - Employment and Social Development Canada
Description:
The Canada Retraining and Opportunities Initiative supports communities and workers significantly impacted by a mass layoff. It provides funding for community-based projects that bring together local organizations to support workforce planning and reskilling opportunities. This initiative helps build community resilience by complementing existing programs and services to help workers develop skills to transition to new jobs.
Who can apply:
Not-for-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, municipal governments, Indigenous organizations or governments, and educational institutions.
How to apply :
Organizations can submit an expression of interest to confirm whether a mass layoff event is eligible for funding
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/canada-retraining-opportunities-initiative.html
Foreign Credential Recognition Program
Description: The Government of Canada provides funding to governments and organizations through the Foreign Credential Recognition Program (FCRP) to support foreign credential recognition in Canada.
Priorities for funding under the Foreign Credential Recognition Program include projects that:
are national in scope
address priority occupations and sectors representing skill shortages in Canada, and/or
have been identified as a priority by provincial and territorial governments
The FCRP does not provide money directly to individuals; it provides funding to provincial and territorial governments and other organizations. These other organizations may include regulatory bodies, national associations and credential assessment agencies. Governments and organizations use the funding for programs that contribute to the integration of skilled newcomers in their field or a related field of study.
https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/funding/foreign-credential-recognition.html
Public Policy and Governance Internship Program
Department - Organization: Public Policy and Governance Program, St. Francis Xavier University
Description: The Public Policy and Governance program offers students an interdisciplinary education to understand how societies solve difficult economic, social, and political problems. Municipalities can offer students paid or volunteer opportunities. The placements are for a minimum of either week between late April and early September. Municipalities will benefit from interns with relevant knowledge and core skills from three years of education in public policy, public administration, economics, and statistics. Organizations taking on an intern should treat the student as a short-term contract employee in accordance with relevant policies.
Example(s): The County of Antigonish had a student who researched policy and program options, contributed to public communications materials, participated in emergency management exercises, drafted MOUs and RFPs, presented a summary of the province’s Road Trails Act to the Municipal Council, provided feedback on their Council Orientation Guide, and assisted with the development of their Housing Accelerator Fund application.
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: Peter Kikkert, Coordinator, Public Policy and Governance Program,
Website: Public Policy and Governance Internship
Housing
Build Canada Homes (BCH)
Department – Organizations: Government of Canada - Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada
Description:
Build Canada Homes (BCH) is Canada's new federal agency created to build and finance affordable housing at scale. Launched on September 14, 2025, BCH provides flexible financing — including loans and non-repayable grants — to expand the supply of affordable housing across the country. The agency operates as a Special Operating Agency within Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC) and will evolve into a standalone federal agency.
BCH focuses primarily on non-market housing, supporting a mix of income needs as part of a national effort to double housing construction, restore affordability, and reduce homelessness. The agency works with provinces, territories, municipalities, Indigenous communities, non-profits, co-operatives, and private developers to deliver housing through three core functions: building affordable homes (including direct development on federal lands), financing affordable homes (deploying public capital and attracting private investment), and catalyzing the housing industry (driving adoption of modern construction methods such as factory-built and modular housing).
BCH is currently seeking shovel-ready projects that materially expand the stock of affordable housing. Shovel-ready projects are defined as those fully planned and ready to begin construction within 12 months or less. Over time, BCH intends to focus on larger-scale and portfolio-based projects.
Nova Scotia Partnership:
In December 2025, the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia announced a partnership of up to $300 million ($120 million federal, $180 million provincial) to accelerate the development of 1,430 new affordable homes. This includes 500 units of non-profit and community housing across the province and a mixed-market development of up to 930 units at Shannon Park in Dartmouth.
Eligible Projects:
BCH invests in projects that expand Canada's affordable housing supply through:
- New construction
- Acquisition, conversion, and repurposing of non-residential buildings into residential housing
- Conversions, rehabilitations, additions to existing buildings, and infill opportunities
- Increasing and/or deepening affordability targets in ongoing projects
BCH supports a range of housing forms:
- Mixed-income and mixed-use developments (with up to 30% ground-floor commercial or retail)
- Mixed-income housing in rural, remote, northern, and Indigenous communities (including ownership options where rental markets are limited)
- Student rental housing (on- and off-campus)
- Seniors' independent living housing
- Supportive and transitional housing for people experiencing or at imminent risk of homelessness
- Affordable ownership models through community-based contributions and income-sensitive financing
- Co-operative housing solutions
What Costs Can BCH Funding Support:
Funding focuses on closing financial gaps that would otherwise prevent a project from moving forward and increasing the number of affordable units or enhancing the depth of affordability. Eligible costs include, but are not limited to:
- Construction costs (labour, materials, supplies)
- Land or building acquisition for new builds and redevelopment
- Projects integrating modern methods of construction or technologies, such as factory-built construction
- Firm-level investments in factory-built housing manufacturing capacity (only to the extent they are directly needed as part of a large-scale housing development or portfolio-level opportunity)
How BCH Defines Affordability:
Housing is affordable when rents are no more than 30% of a household's before-tax income, based on the median income in the local area. BCH uses an income-based definition that reflects regional differences — so affordability thresholds vary by community. For example, the maximum affordable rent for a one-bedroom unit for low-income Canadians ranges from $548/month (Amherst, NS) to $838/month (Vancouver, BC).
Proposals Are Strengthened By:
- Construction readiness within 12 months
- Depth and duration of affordability that meets local needs
- Use of modern construction methods (modular, factory-built) to reduce costs and speed delivery
- Collaborative projects that leverage capital and bundle submissions for regional impact
- Use of Canadian materials to strengthen supply chains and support local manufacturing
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact:
Website: https://housing-infrastructure.canada.ca/bch-mc/index-eng.html
Funding for Indigenous Housing
Department – Organizations: CMHC Indigenous & the North Housing Solutions, Indigenous Services Canada
Description: A comprehensive suite of financing and grant programs to support housing projects for Indigenous communities. Includes new construction, repair and renewal, shelter and transitional housing, internship wage subsidies, and strategy-driven engagement.
Type: Grants, low-interest loans, forgivable loans, contributions and wage subsidies
Eligible Applicants: Indigenous governments and organizations; municipalities and other partners may be eligible when collaborating with an Indigenous lead applicant
Eligible Projects: Affordable rental housing, mixed-income housing, shelters, renovations, housing planning and strategies
Deadline: Continuous intake
Website: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/indigenous
Affordable Housing Innovation Fund
Department – Organizations: CMHC Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Description:
The Affordable Housing Innovation Fund supports new ideas that will drive change and disrupt the industry — approaches that will evolve the affordable housing sector and create the next generation of housing in Canada. The fund encourages development of novel financing models and unique building designs that overcome barriers and lower costs and risks associated with affordable housing projects.
Current Priority: Applications delivering housing units on an expedited basis using modular and prefabricated construction techniques that are scalable and replicable to address homelessness. Special consideration for:
- Communities that submitted Community Encampment Response Plans through the Unsheltered Homelessness and Encampment Initiative
- Previous Innovation Fund applicants with demonstrated experience developing solutions to address homelessness
Innovation Categories
Projects are assessed across two main innovation types:
- Building Innovation: Novel designs, construction techniques, materials, or technologies (e.g., modular housing, passive house, net-zero buildings, northern climate adaptations)
- Financing Innovation: New financing models, partnership structures, or capital approaches (e.g., portfolio approaches, syndicated lending, revolving funds, risk-mitigation models)
Innovation levels range from incremental (improving existing approaches) to breakthrough (fundamentally new) to transformational (industry-changing).
Eligible Projects
Projects must demonstrate innovation in building techniques or financing models that:
- Overcome barriers to affordable housing development
- Lower costs and risks
- Are scalable and replicable
- Test new approaches not yet proven in Canadian affordable housing sector
Minimum Requirements
- Affordability: Based on municipal, provincial, or CMHC criteria; maintain affordability for a minimum of 10 years
- Innovation: Novel financing models or unique designs
- Financial sustainability: Demonstrate available financial resources; highlight how innovation will reduce or eliminate reliance on government subsidies
- Knowledge transfer: Provide a plan for capturing and sharing information, lessons learned and insights
Deadline: continuous
Website:
GST/HST Purpose-built rental housing rebate ( PBRH Rebate)
Department - Organization: Government of Canada
Description: The Government of Canada is providing a 100% rebate of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), or the federal portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), paid on certain new purpose-built rental housing, with no phase-out thresholds (federal PBRH rebate).
The federal PBRH rebate may apply to
- a purchase or construction of a new building
- construction of an addition to an existing building
- a conversion from a non-residential building, such as an office building, to a multiple-unit residential complex
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact: 1-800-567-4692
Website: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/businesses/topics/gst-hst-businesses/gst-hst-rebates/purpose-built-rental-housing.html
Affordable Housing Fund
Department - Organization: Canadian Mortgage and Housing Association
Description: Provides capital to partnered organizations for new affordable housing and the repair and renewal of existing affordable and community housing. Funds are provided as low-interest and/or forgivable loans and contributions. This fund is available to organizations that have partnered with another organization or level of government and have secured some funding. CMHC may provide up to 100% of the eligible project costs.
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: Before you begin the application, please contact 1-800-668-2642,
Website: https://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/professionals/project-funding-and-mortgage-financing/funding-programs/all-funding-programs/affordable-housing-fund
Affordable Housing Development Program (AHDP)
Department - Organization: NS Department of Growth and Development
Description:
The Affordable Housing Development Program (AHDP) is the Province of Nova Scotia's housing supply program designed to increase affordable rental housing supply as rapidly as possible. Through this program, the Province supports private developers and community housing organizations to encourage and help fund the construction of new affordable housing for rent, with end beneficiaries being low-to-moderate income Nova Scotian households having difficulty finding housing at an affordable price.
The program offers flexible solutions for organizations to develop diverse, meaningful projects with funding to support construction. It was designed with flexibility and adaptability in mind so projects can meet the needs of each community. A portion of the funds available come from the Province, together with Federal support through the National Housing Strategy.
Eligible Projects: Projects must:
- Be located in Nova Scotia (off-reserve)
- Create affordable self-contained rental units (≥ 5 units) or shared housing occupancies (≥ 10 bedrooms)
- Serve households below provincial Household Income Limits (HILs)
- Deliver rents ≥ 20% below AMR for at least 15 years
- Be financially viable and comply with Building Code standards for energy efficiency and accessibility
- Pass environmental requirements (Phase I ESA or clearance; not on floodplain)
- Have reasonable access to essential services (e.g. childcare, healthcare, recreation, education)
Deadline: Continuous
Accessible Housing Program
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Accessible Housing Program helps low- and moderate-income homeowners with the cost of accessibility adaptations (upgrades) to help people with disabilities and seniors stay in their homes.
The Accessible Housing Program may fund up to $18,000 of eligible accessibility adaptations. For larger accessibility adaptation projects, an additional $20,000 may be available as a repayable loan. The applicant or other sources need to fund the remaining balance of the costs.
The funding provides $10,000 as a grant and $8,000 as a forgivable loan. To have the loan forgiven, you must meet the loan conditions.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact:
Phone: 902-563-2120
Toll-free: 1-844-424-5110
Fax: 902-563-2370
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/accessible-housing-program
Affordable Housing Development Program
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Affordable Housing Development Program supports the creation of affordable housing. Private developers and community housing developers can apply for forgivable loans from the Affordable Housing Development Program to help fund the construction of new housing or the conversion of non-residential buildings. Both must include affordable rental units for households with low to moderate income.
You need to use the funding to create housing that includes affordable rental units for households with low to moderate income. Affordable housing is housing where the rent is below the average market rent (AMR) for the location.
Projects given priority for funding include housing development that:
- offers rent that’s at least 20% below average market rent
- offers rental units at affordable rental rates for more than the minimum 15-year affordability period
- includes at least 5 affordable rental units
- achieves higher-than-average social, economic or environmental outcomes
- involves co-operatives, non-profit housing providers or community housing groups
- has a plan for construction and operations that’s financially viable
- exceeds Building Code minimum standards for accessibility
- exceeds Building Code minimum standards for energy efficiency
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-create-affordable-housing-affordable-housing-development-program
Deadline: Continuous intake
The Backyard Suite Incentive Program
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Secondary and Backyard Suite Incentive Program helps homeowners create supportive housing for family members or affordable housing for tenants on their property. Homeowners can apply for a forgivable loan to build a secondary or backyard suite on the property of their principal residence. A basement apartment and an apartment detached from your primary residence are examples of a secondary suite.
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-build-secondary-or-backyard-suite-your-property-secondary-and-backyard-suite-incentive-program
Contact :
Phone: 902-563-2120
Toll-free: 1-844-424-5110
Fax: 902-563-2370
Deadline: Continuous intake
The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit - Home Owners
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit helps homeowners stay in their homes if they pay more than 50% of their pre-tax (gross) household income on housing costs (like mortgage and utilities). Supplements are up to $200 per month. You can apply at any time.
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-create-affordable-housing-affordable-housing-development-program
Deadline: Continuous intake
The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit - Renters
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit helps renters with the cost of their rent if they pay more than 40% of their pre-tax (gross) household income on the average market rent in their area (not the rent that they pay). You can apply at any time.
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-rent-supplement-canada-nova-scotia-targeted-housing-benefit
Deadline: Continuous intake
The Community Housing Acquisition Program
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Community Housing Acquisition Program helps community housing providers preserve and expand the supply of affordable housing. Community housing providers can apply to the Community Housing Acquisition Program for a loan to help buy existing multi-unit residential properties for non-market (community) housing.
Funding is available for up to 95% of the property cost. The applicant needs to fund the remaining balance of the project.
The funding provides a fixed-interest-rate, repayable loan. Terms of up to 30 years are available. The maximum loan amount available is $10 million per project, amortized over a maximum of 30 years.
You can use this funding in combination with funding from the Department of Opportunities and Social Development for supportive housing projects.
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-loan-buy-multi-unit-residential-properties-non-market-community-housing-community-housing-acquisition-program
Deadline: Continuous intake
The Community Housing Infrastructure and Repair Program
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Community Housing Infrastructure and Repair Program supports repairs for affordable housing. Community housing providers can apply for forgivable loans from the Community Housing Infrastructure and Repair Program to help fund capital repairs on residential buildings
Website:https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-funding-community-housing-capital-repairs-community-housing-infrastructure-and-repair-program
Deadline: Continuous intake
The Community Housing Operating Support Program
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Community Housing Operating Support Program provides short-term operating support for community housing providers. Community housing organizations can apply to the Community Housing Operating Support Program for operating subsidies to meet immediate needs. You can apply anytime
Website:https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-operating-subsidies-community-housing-community-housing-operating-support-program
Deadline: Continuous intake
Down Payment Assistance Program
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Down Payment Assistance Program helps Nova Scotians who pre-qualify for an insured mortgage to buy their first home. You can apply to the Down Payment Assistance Program for a loan of up to 5% of the purchase price of a home to help with the down payment. You can apply anytime.
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-loan-help-down-payment-your-first-home-down-payment-assistance-program
Deadline: Continuous intake
The Survivors of Gender-based Violence Benefit
Department: Nova Scotia's Department of Growth and Development
Description: The Survivors of Gender-based Violence Benefit provides individuals and families who are fleeing or are planning to leave their home due to acts of gender-based violence with a monthly benefit to help pay their rent.
You get the survivors of gender-based violence benefit for up to 2 years (you need to meet additional eligibility criteria to get the supplement for the second year). After 2 years, you can apply for the Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit for renters
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/apply-survivors-gender-based-violence-housing-benefit
Deadline: Continuous intake
Green Municipal Fund
Department - Organization: Infrastructure Canada/Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Description: GMF is more than just a funding source—they are a full-service partner in your climate action progress. Grants and loans for all stages. Stackable with other funding sources. Dedicated staff to help you apply. Free resources to help build business cases and improve project outcomes. Grants from $100-500k for up to 50% of eligible costs, combined grant and loan to a maximum of $10M for up to 80% of eligible costs.
- Community Efficiency Financing: Explore and assess options for a financing program for home energy upgrades within your community. Support project decision-making with a feasibility study.
- New construction of sustainable affordable housing: Construct a new affordable housing project to a higher environmental performance standard. Finance your new build with capital project funding. Planning, study and pilot project funding is also available.
- Retrofit of Sustainable Affordable Housing: Integrate deep energy efficiency measures and onsite renewable energy generation into existing affordable housing units. Finance your retrofit with capital funding. Planning, study and pilot project funding is also available.
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: or book a meeting with an advisor.
Website: Green Municipal Fund
Provincial Housing Emergency Repair Program
Description: This program is equally funded by the federal and provincial governments and offers financial assistance for homeowners to make emergency repairs to their homes.
The maximum amount of funding available is a $6,500 grant to help cover the cost of labour and materials.
Eligibility: development of future larger-scale capital projects. Eligible capital projects include buses, charging and refuelling infrastructure, and other ancillary infrastructure needs.
Deadline: Currently open for applications.
Contact: For more program information, call 1-844-424-5110 (toll-free).
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/housing-repair-program
Infratructure
Capital Project: Retrofit of Existing Municipal Buildings
Department: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
Funding for municipalities to retrofit existing municipal and community buildings to improve energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions.
-
The Green Municipal Fund's Sustainable Municipal Buildings program provides combined grant and loan funding to help municipalities retrofit existing municipal buildings and community buildings for improved energy performance and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
The program supports projects that implement one or more phases of a retrofit pathway — a sequence of measures designed to reduce GHG emissions by at least 50% within 10 years and achieve best practice energy targets within 20 years. Projects may focus on a single building or a portfolio of municipal buildings.
Eligible Building Types:
- City halls, town halls, and administrative buildings
- Indoor ice rinks, indoor sports arenas, and indoor swimming pools
- Public libraries
- Community and recreation centres (including gyms, halls, curling rinks)
- Arts and culture facilities (theatres, galleries, auditoriums)
- Police stations
- Multi-purpose buildings combining community functions with administrative services
- Fire halls, paramedic centres, public works buildings (eligible for stand-alone retrofits)
Eligible Retrofit Measures:
- HVAC systems and controls
- Iinsulation
- Windows and doors
- Hot water heaters
- LED lighting and lighting controls
- Solar panels and renewable energy systems
- Geothermal heat pumps
- Heat recovery systems (for arenas and pools)
Deadline: continuous
Contact:
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/capital-project-retrofit-existing-municipal-buildings
RBC Foundation Community Infrastructure Fund
Department: Organization: Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) / RBC Foundation
Description: The RBC Foundation Community Infrastructure Fund (Build Stream) provides substantial capital funding to support the construction, renovation, and retrofit of community spaces across Canada. Grant Size & Term: $25,000 to $2,500,000 for projects up to 5 years. The fund focuses on two core priorities:
- Environmental sustainability (e.g., energy efficiency upgrades, reducing greenhouse gas emissions)
- Physical accessibility (e.g., making spaces fully accessible for people of all abilities)
Eligible Projects:
- New construction or major renovations of community-use facilities
- Energy efficiency retrofits (e.g., insulation, HVAC upgrades, solar panels, LED lighting)
- Accessibility upgrades (e.g., ramps, elevators, accessible washrooms, automatic doors, signage)
Deadline: Next intake anticipated Winter 2026.
Eligibility: Canadian registered charities, public institutions, and other qualified donees (including municipalities and Indigenous governments).
How to Apply: Applications must be submitted online via the RBC Community Investment Portal
Website: https://www.rbc.com/our-impact/apply-for-funding/community-investments-canada.html
Study: New Construction of Municipal Buildings
Department: Federation of Canadian Municipalities – Green Municipal Fund (GMF)
Description:
The program funds detailed feasibility studies for new construction of energy-efficient municipal and community buildings. Studies must demonstrate how to achieve zero operational GHGs, meet best practice energy targets and reduce indoor water consumption by at least 20%.
Studies assess implementation approaches for sustainable building design, including energy modeling, cost analysis and environmental impact assessment. The program supports municipalities in developing strategic approaches to net-zero new construction while addressing community needs.
Key Study Requirements:
- Meet best practice energy targets based on climate zone and building type
- Achieve zero operational GHG emissions (emergency backup systems excepted)
- Reduce indoor potable water consumption by 20% or greater
- Complete climate risk assessment for infrastructure valued over $2 million
- Include equity assessment and community impact analysis
Building Types Covered:
- Municipal administrative buildings and town halls
- Community centres and libraries
- Indoor recreation facilities (rinks, pools, fitness centres)
- Public works buildings
- Arts and culture facilities
- Multi-purpose buildings, which include one or more of the above community functions
Eligibility Requirements
- Indigenous communities are eligible lead applicants if they are partnering with a Canadian municipal government on a project, or if they have a shared service agreement with a Canadian municipal government related to municipal infrastructure, climate change or adaptation.
Deadline: Next intake anticipated Winter 2026.
Eligibility: Canadian registered charities, public institutions, and other qualified donees (including municipalities and Indigenous governments).
How to Apply: Applications must be submitted online via the RBC Community Investment Portal
Contact:
- Email:
- Phone: 1-877-417-0550
- Book a meeting with a GMF advisor
Website: https://greenmunicipalfund.ca/funding/study-new-construction-municipal-buildings
Application deadline: Continuous intake
Other
The More Opportunity for Skilled Trades and Occupations Tax Refund
Department - Organization: Nova Scotia Department of Finance and Treasury Board, Provincial Tax Policy and Administration Division
Description: The More Opportunity for Skilled Trades and Occupations Tax Refund helps attract and retain youth to work in Nova Scotia in industries experiencing labour shortages. The More Opportunity for Skilled Trades and Occupations Tax Refund returns the provincial portion of income tax paid on the first $50,000 of income earned by workers in eligible trades and occupations who are under 30. Eligible applicants can apply for the refund for the 2025 tax year starting 16 March 2026.
Applications for income tax years 2024 and 2025
If you earned eligible income from an eligible employer in an eligible trade, film occupation or nursing position in 2024 or 2025, you can apply for the More Opportunity for Skilled Trades and Occupations Tax Refund after you file your income tax return and receive your Canada Revenue Agency Notice of Assessment for the tax year you apply for.
Eligibility
To qualify for the refund, you need to:
- file your income tax return as a resident of Nova Scotia and receive your Canada Revenue Agency Notice of Assessment for the tax year you apply for
- be 29 or younger (in the tax year you apply for); for example, if you were 29 on 1 January 2025 you qualify for the 2025 tax year
- have worked in Nova Scotia for an eligible employer in an eligible skilled trade, nursing position or film occupation
- be registered as an apprentice or certified as a journeyperson in an eligible trade, if you worked in an eligible trade
- have a valid nursing licence issued by the Nova Scotia College of Nursing, if you worked in an eligible nursing position
Review detailed eligibility criteria and learn how the tax refund works in the More Opportunity for Skilled Trades and Occupations Tax Refund Guidelines (PDF).
You need to apply for the refund by 30 June 2026 for the 2024 tax year.
You need to apply for the refund by 30 June 2027 for the 2025 tax year.
How to apply
- Review the More Opportunity for Skilled Trades and Occupations Tax Refund Guidelines.
- Apply online for the tax refund.
- Check the application for details on all required supporting documents.
- Submit your completed application and supporting documents.
- Check your application status.
Deadline: Continuous
Website: https://tourismns.ca/tourism-digital-assistance-program
Tourism Digital Assistance Program-Communities (TDAP-Communities)
Department - Organization: Tourism Nova Scotia & Digital Nova Scotia
Description: The Tourism Digital Assistance Program – Communities helps eligible municipalities, chambers of commerce, and community tourism organizations build digital capacity and develop online tools to effectively promote communities as travel destinations.
In partnership with Digital Nova Scotia, you will be matched with a qualified digital consultant for services valued up to $15,000
Eligible services include:
- Website design and development (includes AI-powered chatbot and automations)
- Social media planning
- Search engine optimization (SEO)
- Digital marketing planning
- Photography and/or videography to fill content gaps
- Copywriting
- Data analytics
- Digital branding and design
- E-commerce
- Online booking
Deadline: Thursday, May 14th, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
Website: https://www.novascotia.ca/more-opportunity-skilled-trades-and-occupations-tax-refund
The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) Program
The Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia are working together to help low and median-income Canadian households who are currently heating their homes with oil to make the transition to electric cold-climate heat pumps. The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) Program provides up to $10,000 to help eligible homeowners make this switch and may be combined with funding from existing federal and provincial programs including the Canada Greener Homes Grant (CGHG) and programs offered by Efficiency Nova Scotia. Meaning homeowners can increase the amount of rebates they receive for heat pumps, if moving away from oil, and can also receive support to upgrade electrical panels.
The OHPA Grant will provide up to $10,000 to cover costs for the purchase and installation of an eligible* Cold Climate air source heat pump, plus:
- electrical and mechanical upgrades required for the new heat pump;
- safe removal and/or decommissioning of the oil tank;
- installation of a back-up electric heating system (as required); and
- switching over other oil-using household systems, such as a hot water heater (where necessary).
Eligibility
Homeowners may be eligible for the OHPA Grant if:
- their home is oil-heated as of January 2023 (this must be demonstrated with copies of their oil fuel bills from the 12 months preceding their application);
- they are the primary resident and owner of a single/ semi-detached home located in Nova Scotia and can provide proof of ownership; and
- their total household income is at or below the maximum annual household income after-tax, as determined by Statistics Canada and outlined in the below chart.
*Only the cold climate air source heat pumps found on this Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps list are eligible under the OHPA program.
Non-eligible costs would include cleanup of any pre-existing oil contamination found on-site at households.
For more information visit, Efficiency Nova Scotia
Recreation & Health
Visit Recreation Funding Opportunities for more information.
Visit Trails for funding opportunities for more information.
Seniors
We Are Young
Department: Organization: We Are Young - charitable organization
Description:
We Are Young is a charity dedicated to empowering seniors by improving age-related barriers such as social isolation and loneliness, enhancing mental and physical well-being and restoring seniors' sense of purpose through creative, transformative wish fulfillment. These experience-based wishes create lasting memories, whether it's realizing a lifelong dream, rediscovering a passion, or reconnecting with loved ones.
Through our work, we are challenging societal perceptions of aging and fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect, creating meaningful experiences that inspire individual and community-level change.
Eligibility:
- 70 years or older
- Permanent resident of Atlantic Canada or Ontario
- Has an experience- based wish they would like to see fulfilled
- Can not fulfill their wish on their own
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact:
Tel: 902.701.8848
Website: weareyoung.ca
Housing Repair and Accessibility Program
Department: Organization: Provincial Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Description:
The Housing Repair and Accessibility Program may fund up to $18,000 of eligible repair costs. For larger repair projects an additional $20,000 may be available as a repayable loan. The applicant or other sources need to fund the remaining balance of the costs.
The funding provides $10,000 as a grant and $8,000 as a forgivable loan. To have the loan forgiven, you must meet the loan conditions.
Eligible repairs
Eligible emergency repairs are repairs or issues in 1 or more of the 4 critical situation categories that represent a hazard to a property or occupants and may result in the occupants having to leave the home. Eligible health and safety repairs are repairs or issues in 1 or more of the 4 critical situation categories that are less urgent but still require attention.
Critical situation categories include:
- structural
- electrical
- plumbing
- heating
Eligible costs
- material
- labour
- legal fees
- related taxes
Costs are not eligible if you complete the work before you’re approved for the funding
Eligibility:
- repairs are an emergency or required to maintain the safe occupancy of your home
- you own and have lived in your home where the repairs will be applied for at least 1 year
- your home is at least 5 years old
- you have an annual pre-tax (gross) household income that’s not more than the income limits in the Housing Repair Guide
- you don’t have the financial ability to pay for the repairs on your own based on your pre-tax (gross) household income and investments (households with more than $25,000 in investment assets are not eligible)
- you haven’t received previous housing repair grants in the last 5 years, unless the repairs are eligible emergency repairs
- you haven’t received previous housing repair loans in the last 15 years, unless the repairs are eligible emergency repairs
- your property taxes are paid up to date or you have a payment plan in place with the local government for at least 3 months
- your property value is no more than $360,000 in Halifax Regional Municipality and the County of East Hants or $280,000 in other regions of Nova Scotia
Eligible properties include:
- single-family detached house
- townhouse (semi-detached) or row house
- condominium property (interiors only, not common spaces)
- manufactured (mobile) home where ownership of the unit is verified
You also need to meet any additional eligibility criteria (like repair eligibility) outlined in the Housing Repair Guide.
Deadline: Continuous intake
Contact:
Toll-free: 1-844-424-5110
Website: https://beta.novascotia.ca/accessible-housing-program
The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) Program
The Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia are working together to help low and median-income Canadian households who are currently heating their homes with oil to make the transition to electric cold-climate heat pumps. The Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) Program provides up to $10,000 to help eligible homeowners make this switch and may be combined with funding from existing federal and provincial programs including the Canada Greener Homes Grant (CGHG) and programs offered by Efficiency Nova Scotia. Meaning homeowners can increase the amount of rebates they receive for heat pumps, if moving away from oil, and can also receive support to upgrade electrical panels.
The OHPA Grant will provide up to $10,000 to cover costs for the purchase and installation of an eligible* Cold Climate air source heat pump, plus:
- electrical and mechanical upgrades required for the new heat pump;
- safe removal and/or decommissioning of the oil tank;
- installation of a back-up electric heating system (as required); and
- switching over other oil-using household systems, such as a hot water heater (where necessary).
Non-eligible costs would include cleanup of any pre-existing oil contamination found on-site at households.
*Only the cold climate air source heat pumps found on this Cold Climate Air Source Heat Pumps list are eligible under the OHPA program.
Eligibility
Homeowners may be eligible for the OHPA Grant if:
- their home is oil-heated as of January 2023 (this must be demonstrated with copies of their oil fuel bills from the 12 months preceding their application);
- they are the primary resident and owner of a single/ semi-detached home located in Nova Scotia and can provide proof of ownership; and
- their total household income is at or below the maximum annual household income after-tax, as determined by Statistics Canada and outlined in the below chart.
For more information visit, Efficiency Nova Scotia
Transportation
Green Municipal Fund
Department - Organization: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada /Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Description: GMF is more than just a funding source—they are a full-service partner in your climate action progress. Grants and loans for all stages. Stackable with other funding sources. Dedicated staff to help you apply. Free resources to help build business cases and improve project outcomes. Grants from $100-500k for up to 50% of eligible costs, combined grant and loan to a maximum of $10M for up to 80% of eligible costs.
- Municipal Fleet Electrification:Funding for the electrification of municipal and transit fleets to help municipalities achieve net-zero transportation emissions.
Deadline: Continuous
Contact: or book a meeting with an advisor.
Website: Green Municipal Fund
Green Freight
Department - Organization: Natural Resources Canada
Description: The program will help fleets reduce their fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from on-road freight through fleet energy assessments, fleet retrofits, engine repowers, best-practice implementation and the purchase of low-carbon vehicles. There are two streams; municipal governments are listed as eligible applicants on both streams. Stream 1 of the program provides grant funding up to a maximum of $250,000 per Applicant. Stream 2 contributes up to 50% of total project costs, up to a maximum of $5 million per project.
Deadline: Stream 1 is a continuous intake
Website: Green Freight Program