Deadline: 18-Feb-2026
The Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) provides funding for community-based events that promote intercultural and interfaith understanding, celebrate diversity, and address racism or discrimination in Canada. Grants of up to $100,000 per event ($200,000 for multi-year initiatives) are available to eligible organizations hosting public events that foster dialogue, civic engagement, and social cohesion.
Overview of the Program
The MARP Events Component supports initiatives that:
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Promote intercultural and interfaith understanding
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Foster discussions on multiculturalism, diversity, racism, and religious discrimination
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Celebrate community history, heritage, and cultural identity, including Parliament-recognized heritage months
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Encourage dialogue, mutual understanding, and critical thinking to counter misinformation
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Provide inclusive platforms for community connection and equity promotion
The program aims to strengthen social cohesion and build more united communities across Canada.
Who is Eligible
Eligible organizations include:
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Canadian not-for-profit organizations
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Municipalities with populations up to 10,000
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Indigenous not-for-profit organizations
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Indigenous governments or councils
Event Requirements
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Must be open to the general public
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Facilitate positive interactions among diverse communities
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Support engagement with cultural, religious, or ethnocultural identities
Funding Details
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Maximum per event, per fiscal year: $100,000
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Maximum per recipient for recurring/multi-year events: $200,000
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Total funding requested cannot exceed $200,000 for multi-year initiatives
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Funding supports events that are inclusive, impactful, and foster long-term community benefits
Key Focus Areas
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Raising awareness of Canada’s cultural diversity
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Addressing barriers to social and economic participation related to culture, ethnicity, or religion
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Countering hate, misinformation, and polarization
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Fostering human connection, civic participation, and belonging
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Supporting community-led initiatives that strengthen local capacity to address racism and discrimination
How to Apply
Step 1: Plan Your Event
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Identify the target community and event objectives
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Outline strategies to promote intercultural or interfaith understanding
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Ensure activities are inclusive, accessible, and open to the public
Step 2: Prepare Application
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Describe the event theme, content, and planned activities
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Provide a detailed budget and explain how funding will support key objectives
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Highlight potential community impact and long-term benefits
Step 3: Submit Application
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Complete and submit the MARP application form before the deadline
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Ensure compliance with eligibility criteria and funding limits
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Proposing events that are not open to the public
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Exceeding funding limits ($100,000 per event, $200,000 for multi-year)
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Lack of clear strategies to promote inclusivity or counter discrimination
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Failing to demonstrate community engagement or measurable impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply?
Canadian not-for-profits, small municipalities, Indigenous organizations, and Indigenous governments or councils.
2. What is the maximum funding?
$100,000 per event per fiscal year; $200,000 for multi-year recurring events.
3. Are multi-year events eligible?
Yes, but total funding requested cannot exceed $200,000.
4. Must events be open to the public?
Yes, events must be accessible to the general public.
5. What types of events are prioritized?
Events that foster intercultural understanding, promote equity, celebrate cultural heritage, and counter misinformation or discrimination.
6. Can funding be used for private or invitation-only events?
No, only publicly accessible events are eligible.
7. Are Indigenous organizations eligible?
Yes, both Indigenous not-for-profits and governments/councils may apply.
Conclusion
The Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) empowers communities across Canada to host events that foster diversity, inclusion, and intercultural dialogue. By funding initiatives that build mutual understanding, counter discrimination, and celebrate cultural heritage, MARP contributes to stronger, more connected, and resilient communities.
For more information, visit Government of Canada.