Deadline: 31-Dec-2026
The Community Catalysts Grant provides up to $1,000 to locally based community groups and non-profit organizations in the Westlock region for small-scale projects that strengthen connection, inclusivity, and community spirit. Funding is allocated twice annually on a first-come, first-served basis, with Winter and Summer intakes. Projects must take place in Westlock or nearby areas and align with priorities identified through WCF’s Vital Signs research.
What Is the Community Catalysts Grant?
The Community Catalysts Grant is a small-grants program designed to empower grassroots initiatives that bring people together and enhance local engagement.
The program was developed in response to community priorities identified through Vital Signs research conducted by the Westlock Community Foundation.
Its goal is to:
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Foster community connection
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Promote inclusivity
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Encourage collaboration
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Strengthen local community spirit
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Support small-scale, accessible initiatives
The grant prioritizes projects that respond directly to identified local needs.
Funding Details
Maximum grant amount: $1,000
Funding type: Small-scale, one-time project support
Decision basis: First-come, first-served
Distribution timeline: Within four weeks of intake deadline
Funding cycle: Twice annually
Unused funds from:
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Winter intake → Roll over into Summer intake
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Summer intake → Carried forward to the next calendar year
Funding decisions are final.
Application Intakes and Key Dates (2025)
There are two application periods each year:
Winter Intake: Opens February 7, 2025
Summer Intake: Opens June 30, 2025
Applications are reviewed as they are received, subject to available funds.
What Types of Projects Are Supported?
Eligible initiatives include small-scale:
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Community events
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Cultural gatherings
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Neighbourhood activities
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Inclusion-focused programs
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Collaborative projects
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Social connection initiatives
Projects must:
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Enrich community life
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Encourage participation
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Promote inclusivity
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Strengthen local engagement
The grant is intended for grassroots efforts that create meaningful local impact.
Geographic Eligibility
Projects must take place within:
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Town of Westlock
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Westlock County
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Nearby surrounding areas
Applicants must be locally based within the region.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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Local community groups
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Community teams
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Non-profit organizations
Additional eligibility rules:
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Only one application per organization per calendar year
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Must not have received another WCF grant in the same calendar year
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Must operate locally within the eligible geographic area
Who Is Not Eligible?
The following are not eligible:
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For-profit entities
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Religious groups focused on a single spiritual tradition
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Political organizations
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Organizations that have already received other WCF funding in the same calendar year
How the Grant Process Works
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure:
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Your organization is locally based
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Your project occurs within the eligible region
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You have not received another WCF grant this year
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You have not applied already this calendar year
Step 2: Develop a Small-Scale Project Plan
Define:
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Purpose of the initiative
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Target participants
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Community need addressed
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Budget (up to $1,000)
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Expected outcomes
Step 3: Submit Application During Intake Period
Applications are reviewed on a rolling, first-come basis.
Step 4: Eligibility Review
WCF staff assess:
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Alignment with grant objectives
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Compliance with eligibility criteria
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Availability of funds
Step 5: Notification and Funding
Successful applicants are notified promptly.
Funds are distributed within four weeks of the intake deadline.
Why This Grant Matters
Small-scale community initiatives often struggle to secure funding despite having high local impact.
The Community Catalysts Grant:
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Supports grassroots innovation
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Encourages neighbour-to-neighbour connection
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Reduces barriers to participation
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Builds inclusive community spaces
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Responds directly to Vital Signs community priorities
By keeping funding accessible and streamlined, the program enables rapid community response to emerging needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying after receiving another WCF grant in the same year
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Submitting more than one application in a calendar year
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Proposing projects outside the eligible geographic area
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Requesting more than $1,000
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Submitting incomplete information
Applications that clearly demonstrate local benefit and alignment with community priorities are more competitive.
Tips for a Strong Application
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Clearly explain how your project fosters connection or inclusion
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Keep the project scope realistic and manageable
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Provide a simple, transparent budget
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Highlight community collaboration
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Show how your initiative responds to local needs
Small but meaningful projects with clear outcomes are ideal for this grant.
FAQ
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How much funding can we request?
Up to $1,000 per project. -
How often can an organization apply?
Only once per calendar year. -
What if we received another WCF grant this year?
You are not eligible for this grant in the same calendar year. -
When are funds distributed?
Within four weeks after the intake deadline. -
Are projects outside Westlock eligible?
No. Projects must take place in the Town of Westlock, Westlock County, or nearby areas. -
Can religious organizations apply?
Only if not focused exclusively on one spiritual tradition. Faith-specific programming is not eligible. -
How are applications reviewed?
On a first-come, first-served basis, subject to eligibility and available funding.
Conclusion
The Community Catalysts Grant provides accessible, small-scale funding to strengthen connection, inclusivity, and community spirit in the Westlock region. With up to $1,000 available per project and two annual intake periods, the program empowers local groups to bring people together and respond to community priorities. Eligible organizations should apply early within the intake period to secure funding and maximize impact.
For more information, visit Westlock Community Foundation.
