Deadline: 28-Feb-2026
The OSEG Foundation EDI Grant supports organizations using sport as a tool for social change to improve access, inclusion, and opportunity for children and youth facing barriers. The program funds initiatives that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in sport and recreation, focusing on youth development, gender equity, and underrepresented communities within 100 km of Ottawa.
What is the OSEG Foundation EDI Grant?
The EDI Grant helps organizations enhance youth sport and recreation programs to ensure high-quality, inclusive opportunities for children and youth. It emphasizes using sport as a platform for social change, building confidence, connection, and personal development among young people who face systemic barriers.
Funding Focus Areas
The EDI Grant prioritizes initiatives that:
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Promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in sport and recreation
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Remove financial barriers to participation
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Support positive youth development through physical activity
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Deliver intentional programming for girls and gender-diverse youth aged 6 to 24
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Serve underrepresented communities, including BIPOC youth, low-income youth, youth with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ youth, Indigenous, Metis, Inuit, and newcomer youth
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include organizations that:
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Align with the OSEG Foundation’s mission of leveraging sport for social change
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Are qualified donees as defined by the Canada Revenue Agency, including:
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Registered charities
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National amateur athletic associations with programming within 100 km of Ottawa
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Ottawa-based housing corporations
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Metis, Inuit, or First Nation communities, bands, or organizations
Priority: Initiatives that reduce barriers to participation and serve underrepresented populations
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Why This Grant Matters
The EDI Grant:
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Increases access to inclusive sport and recreation programs for youth facing systemic barriers
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Encourages social, physical, and personal development through sport
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Strengthens community engagement and inclusion in local sport programs
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Ensures equitable opportunities for youth to build confidence, connection, and well-being
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Supports long-term impact by targeting underserved and marginalized groups
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Ensure your organization is a qualified donee and aligns with OSEG Foundation priorities.
Step 2: Develop Program Plan Outline program objectives, target population, expected outcomes, and how barriers will be addressed.
Step 3: Submit Application Include evidence of program feasibility, inclusion strategies, and potential community impact.
Step 4: Implementation and Reporting Execute programs, track outcomes, and submit reports as required by the Foundation.
Common Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
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Clearly demonstrate alignment with equity, diversity, and inclusion objectives
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Provide specific strategies to remove financial or social barriers to participation
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Highlight how youth leadership and engagement are incorporated
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Include measurable outcomes for youth development and community impact
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Ensure programming serves eligible communities within the 100 km Ottawa region radius
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the EDI Grant? Qualified donees, including registered charities, national amateur athletic associations in the Ottawa region, Ottawa-based housing corporations, and Indigenous, Metis, or Inuit organizations.
2. What age groups are eligible? Youth aged 6 to 24, with programming tailored for girls and gender-diverse participants.
3. What are the focus areas of the grant? Equity, diversity, inclusion, barrier removal, positive youth development, and programming for underrepresented youth.
4. Does the grant support financial assistance for participants? Yes, initiatives that reduce financial barriers are prioritized.
5. What geographic area is eligible? Organizations delivering programming within 100 km of the National Capital Region (Ottawa).
6. Are there priorities for underserved groups? Yes, priority is given to programs serving BIPOC youth, low-income youth, youth with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+ youth, Indigenous youth, and newcomer youth.
7. How is success measured? Through demonstrated impact on inclusion, youth engagement, personal development, and participation rates among targeted communities.
Conclusion
The OSEG Foundation EDI Grant empowers organizations to make sport and recreation programs inclusive, equitable, and accessible for youth facing barriers. By funding initiatives that reduce obstacles, enhance youth development, and support underrepresented populations, the Foundation promotes long-term social impact and helps young people thrive through sport.
For more information, visit OSEG Foundation.
