Deadline: 15-May-2026
The Building Inclusive Communities Fund supports projects, initiatives, and events that strengthen diversity, equity, inclusion, and community participation across Nova Scotia, Canada. Funding is available in two tiers: up to $5,000 and $5,001 to $10,000.
Eligible applicants include Nova Scotia-based non-profits, charities, cooperatives, Mi’kmaw communities, and social enterprises working to remove barriers and build more inclusive communities.
What Is the Building Inclusive Communities Fund?
The Building Inclusive Communities Fund invests in community-led efforts that improve social inclusion, cultural understanding, and equitable participation in community life.
The programme recognises that diverse communities contribute to the social, cultural, and economic wellbeing of Nova Scotia.
Geographic Focus
Projects must operate in:
Nova Scotia
Main Goals of the Fund
The programme supports initiatives that:
- Promote diversity and inclusion
- Strengthen community belonging
- Increase access and participation
- Remove barriers for equity-deserving groups
- Celebrate cultural identities
- Improve public awareness and understanding
- Build stronger organisations serving communities
Priority Focus Areas
1. Cultural Diversity
Projects that bring people together to share and celebrate traditions, heritage, and identities.
Examples
- Cultural festivals
- Community heritage events
- Intercultural exchange programmes
- Storytelling initiatives
2. Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Awareness
Projects that educate and create understanding.
Examples
- Public campaigns
- Community dialogue sessions
- Inclusion workshops
- Anti-discrimination awareness activities
3. Access and Barrier Removal
Projects helping underrepresented groups participate fully.
Examples
- Accessibility improvements
- Outreach initiatives
- Inclusive programme design
- Community navigation support
4. Organisational Capacity Building
Helping organisations better serve equity-deserving communities.
Examples
- Inclusion planning
- Policy development
- Governance improvement
- Community engagement systems
Funding Tiers
Tier 1
- Up to $5,000
- Minimum 15% in-kind contribution
Tier 2
- $5,001 to $10,000
- Minimum 25% contribution
- At least 10% must be cash
Collaboration Encouraged
Partnership applications are especially encouraged for larger Tier 2 requests.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Registered Nova Scotia-based non-profit organisations
- Cooperatives
- Charities in good standing
- Mi’kmaw communities
- Federally incorporated non-profits operating in Nova Scotia
- Registered social enterprises active in the province
Why This Fund Matters
Inclusive communities are stronger communities.
This fund helps organisations:
- Build belonging
- Reduce exclusion
- Improve access
- Celebrate diversity
- Strengthen community relationships
- Support long-term social equity
What Is Not Funded?
The programme does not support:
- Research-only projects
- Fundraising events
- Operational expenses
- Religious-focused initiatives
- Language classes
- Training programmes
- Recurring large-scale events
- Employment-focused projects
- Major equipment purchases
Strong Project Ideas
Suitable Examples
- Multicultural community festival with accessibility supports
- Inclusion outreach for newcomers
- Youth anti-racism engagement programme
- Mi’kmaw cultural sharing initiative
- Community accessibility awareness campaign
- Organisational EDI capacity-building plan
- Events connecting underrepresented communities
How to Apply
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your organisation is legally eligible and active in Nova Scotia.
Step 2: Select the Right Funding Tier
Choose:
- Tier 1 (up to $5,000)
- Tier 2 ($5,001–$10,000)
Step 3: Design an Inclusive Project
Clearly explain:
- Community need
- Target groups
- Activities
- Expected impact
- Inclusion outcomes
Step 4: Prepare Contributions
Include required cash or in-kind contributions.
Step 5: Submit Complete Application
Provide budget, timeline, and organisational details.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Eligibility Errors
- Applying from outside Nova Scotia
- For-profit business with no eligibility status
- Requesting operational costs
Proposal Errors
- Vague inclusion outcomes
- One-time event with no impact plan
- No target community engagement
- Missing contribution details
Tips for a Strong Application
- Co-design with affected communities
- Show measurable participation outcomes
- Demonstrate accessibility planning
- Build partnerships
- Include sustainability after funding
- Use realistic budgets
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where must projects take place?
In Nova Scotia.
2. How much funding is available?
Up to $10,000 depending on tier.
3. Can charities apply?
Yes, charities in good standing are eligible.
4. Are Mi’kmaw communities eligible?
Yes.
5. Are recurring events funded?
Recurring large-scale events are generally not eligible.
6. Is matching contribution required?
Yes, depending on funding tier.
7. Can social enterprises apply?
Yes, registered social enterprises operating in Nova Scotia may apply.
Conclusion
The Building Inclusive Communities Fund 2026 is an important opportunity for organisations in Nova Scotia to create more welcoming, equitable, and connected communities. With grants up to $10,000, it supports meaningful local initiatives that improve participation and celebrate diversity.
Strong applications should clearly show community need, inclusion impact, and practical outcomes for equity-deserving groups.
For more information, visit Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism & Heritage.