The Canada Water Agency is offering funding for projects that reduce harmful chemical releases into the Great Lakes basin. Eligible organisations can receive up to $200,000 for two-year initiatives that implement innovative, science-based solutions to improve freshwater quality, ecosystem health, and community wellbeing. This program supports collaboration, knowledge-building, and measurable outcomes aligned with the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement.

Canada Water Agency: Great Lakes Chemical Reduction Funding

Overview

The Canada Water Agency has launched a new funding opportunity under its Great Lakes freshwater ecosystem initiatives. This program targets projects aimed at reducing the release of harmful chemicals into the Great Lakes basin, addressing one of the most urgent environmental challenges in the region.

The initiative prioritises measurable environmental impact, innovative approaches, and collaboration among Indigenous communities, non-profits, research institutions, and other stakeholders. Projects should focus on chemicals of mutual concern and explore methods that go beyond regulatory compliance.

Key Objectives

• Reduce harmful chemical releases into the Great Lakes basin

• Protect ecosystem health and freshwater quality

• Enhance community capacity and knowledge on chemical management

• Encourage science-based, innovative approaches to chemical mitigation

• Support Canada’s obligations under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Indigenous communities and organisations

• Non-profit environmental and conservation groups

• Research institutions and universities

• Other relevant partners actively engaged in freshwater ecosystem protection

Funding Details

• Maximum funding per project: $200,000

• Project duration: Up to 2 years

• Eligible projects must demonstrate measurable reductions in chemical releases or improvements in management capacity

• Emphasis on innovative technologies, processes, or collaborative strategies

Focus Areas

Projects should address:

• Chemicals of mutual concern in the Great Lakes basin

• Pollution prevention and reduction strategies

• Research and applied science for ecosystem restoration

• Community engagement, education, and capacity-building initiatives

How to Apply

1. Verify Eligibility – Ensure your organisation meets program criteria.

2. Define Project Goals – Identify target chemicals and proposed reduction strategies.

3. Demonstrate Measurable Outcomes – Show how the project will reduce chemical releases or enhance chemical management capacity.

4. Develop Budget and Timeline – Prepare a detailed plan for funding up to $200,000 over two years.

5. Highlight Collaboration and Innovation – Include partnerships, scientific methods, and community engagement strategies.

6. Submit Proposal – Follow the Canada Water Agency’s official submission process and deadlines.

7. Implement and Report – Execute the project and provide monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of results.

Common Tips

• Focus on clear, measurable reductions in chemical releases

• Incorporate Indigenous knowledge and community participation

• Emphasise innovation and science-based methodologies

• Demonstrate strong partnerships with relevant stakeholders

• Include a monitoring and evaluation plan to track progress

FAQ

1. What types of chemicals are targeted?
The program focuses on chemicals of mutual concern identified as posing ecological or human health risks in the Great Lakes basin.

2. Who can apply for this funding?
Indigenous communities, non-profits, research institutions, and other relevant organisations actively engaged in freshwater protection are eligible.

3. How much funding is available per project?
Projects can receive up to $200,000.

4. What is the maximum duration for projects?
Projects may span up to two years.

5. What outcomes are expected?
Projects should lead to measurable reductions in chemical releases or enhanced capacity for chemical management.

6. Can the funding support multi-partner collaborations?
Yes, collaboration among organisations, Indigenous communities, and research institutions is encouraged.

7. How does this initiative relate to the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement?
Projects funded through this program support Canada’s commitments under the agreement to restore and protect the ecological health of the Great Lakes.

Conclusion

This Canada Water Agency funding initiative offers a strategic opportunity for organisations to tackle chemical pollution in the Great Lakes basin. By supporting innovative, science-based solutions and fostering collaboration, the program advances ecosystem resilience, community engagement, and long-term freshwater protection. Projects that reduce chemical threats and build local capacity contribute to sustainable stewardship of one of Canada’s most critical freshwater systems.