Deadline: 30-Oct-2025
The Neighbourhood Small Grants Program provides support to people who want to make their communities better places to live.
Their grants range from $50 to $500. Project themes include the celebration of Indigenous languages, sharing cultural practices across generations, sharing culture with new audiences, creating opportunities for cultural exchanges, youth-led culture projects, inclusion, diversity, and support for Indigenous food projects.
The principles emphasize community-led decision-making, inclusivity, and the power of small-scale initiatives to create lasting social connections and cultural growth within local neighbourhoods.
Projects must begin after grant approval, with funds expected to be spent by May 30, 2026. Applicants can use grant money to pay honorariums of up to $350 per project for contributions such as cultural performances or teachings.
All projects must be free to attend, accessible, and welcoming to all, while ensuring inclusivity for people with disabilities and diverse backgrounds. Fundraising for other organizations during events is not allowed, but applicants are encouraged to seek in-kind support from local businesses.
Projects must align with NSG goals of strengthening community relationships and inclusivity within local areas. Large-scale capital or maintenance projects are ineligible, and grants cannot support psychotherapy or counseling services.
Eligible applicants must live in the Clayoquot Biosphere Region and can only apply for one project per cycle within a single community. These grants are intended for individuals and small volunteer-based neighbourhood or community groups, not for registered charities or businesses.
Those using public spaces must comply with municipal bylaws, obtain required permits, and secure liability insurance before beginning their projects. Festival-style events must focus on specific neighbourhoods and include elements that foster community interaction and relationship-building.
After completing the project, recipients are encouraged to document their work through photos, videos, or written summaries and share these with their local NSG Coordinator. Project leaders are also invited to attend the annual NSG Celebration to share their experiences, acknowledge the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust, and complete an evaluation survey. Any unused grant money must be returned to the program coordinator.
The deadline for applications is 30 October 2025.
For more information, visit Clayoquot Biosphere Trust.