Deadline: 22-Apr-2026
The Thrive PoCo Microgrant Program provides up to $1,000 in funding for resident-led community initiatives in Port Coquitlam. It supports grassroots projects that strengthen social connections, reduce isolation, and increase civic participation through local, in-person activities.
The program is funded by the Moore Family Fund and administered with the Port Coquitlam Arts Council. It prioritizes inclusive, community-driven projects that activate neighbourhood spaces and improve community wellbeing.
Overview
The Thrive PoCo Microgrant Program is a small-scale community funding initiative designed to empower local residents in Port Coquitlam to lead positive social change.
It supports grassroots action by funding projects that improve neighbourhood engagement, encourage participation, and build stronger social networks.
The program specifically targets community wellbeing through connection-based activities rather than commercial or revenue-generating projects.
Key Objectives (What the Program Aims to Achieve)
The program is built around strengthening local community life through:
- Increasing social connection among residents
- Reducing loneliness and social isolation
- Encouraging civic participation and engagement
- Activating neighbourhood spaces and public areas
- Supporting inclusive community-led initiatives
- Building a stronger sense of belonging
Funding Details
- Maximum grant amount: Up to $1,000
- Funding source: Moore Family Fund
- Administration: Port Coquitlam Arts Council
- Cost to participants: All funded activities must be free
- Project location: Must take place within Port Coquitlam
- Project type: Non-commercial, community-focused initiatives
Hybrid events may be allowed, but in-person participation is strongly prioritized.
Eligibility Criteria (Who Can Apply?)
Applicants must meet all of the following conditions:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must reside in Port Coquitlam
- Must apply as a group of at least 3 people
Not eligible:
- Registered nonprofits
- Charities
- Businesses or commercial organizations
- Individual applicants (must be a group)
Additional rules:
- Projects must not generate profit or revenue
- Projects must be completed by December 31
Types of Supported Projects
The program supports a wide range of community-based ideas, including:
- Neighbourhood gatherings and block events
- Community festivals or social meetups
- Skill-sharing workshops (arts, crafts, cooking, etc.)
- Environmental or clean-up initiatives
- Public space activation (pop-up activities, installations)
- Creative or cultural community projects
- Anti-isolation or wellness-focused activities
All projects must prioritize participation, inclusion, and accessibility.
How the Program Works
Step 1: Application Submission
Applicants submit a group-based proposal describing the community project, objectives, and budget use.
Step 2: Eligibility Screening
Applications are first checked for basic eligibility requirements such as residency, group size, and project type.
Step 3: Committee Review
Eligible applications are evaluated by a selection committee.
Step 4: Evaluation Criteria
Projects are assessed based on:
- Ability to build social connections
- Community relevance and need
- Inclusivity and accessibility
- Feasibility and practicality
- Effective and responsible use of funds
Step 5: Funding Decision
Selected projects receive funding support up to $1,000.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Form a group of at least 3 Port Coquitlam residents
- Identify a community need or engagement idea
- Design a project plan (activities, timeline, and goals)
- Create a simple budget using up to $1,000 funding
- Submit the application for review
- Await eligibility screening and committee evaluation
- If approved, implement the project before December 31
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying as an individual instead of a group
- Proposing profit-based or commercial projects
- Not ensuring the project is free for participants
- Submitting incomplete or unclear budgets
- Ignoring inclusivity and accessibility considerations
- Planning activities outside Port Coquitlam
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on real community needs (loneliness, isolation, engagement gaps)
- Design simple, achievable projects within budget
- Prioritize in-person interaction and participation
- Include diverse and inclusive outreach plans
- Clearly explain expected community impact
- Keep logistics realistic and easy to execute
Why the Thrive PoCo Microgrant Matters
The program plays an important role in strengthening community wellbeing by enabling small, local initiatives that create real social impact.
Key impacts include:
- Reducing social isolation through shared activities
- Strengthening neighbourhood relationships
- Increasing civic participation at the grassroots level
- Encouraging creative use of public spaces
- Supporting resident leadership and empowerment
It helps residents become active contributors to their community rather than passive participants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How much funding can I receive?
You can receive up to $1,000 per approved project.
2. Who can apply for the grant?
Groups of at least three Port Coquitlam residents aged 18 or older can apply.
3. Can organizations or nonprofits apply?
No. Registered nonprofits, charities, and businesses are not eligible.
4. What types of projects are supported?
Community events, skill-sharing sessions, neighbourhood gatherings, environmental initiatives, and public space activation projects are supported.
5. Do projects need to be free?
Yes. All funded activities must be free for participants.
6. Can projects be online or hybrid?
Projects must primarily be in-person, but hybrid formats may be allowed in some cases.
7. When must projects be completed?
All projects must be completed by December 31 of the funding year.
Conclusion
The Thrive PoCo Microgrant Program is a community-focused funding opportunity that empowers residents of Port Coquitlam to design and lead local initiatives. By offering up to $1,000 in support, it enables grassroots groups to strengthen social bonds, activate neighbourhood spaces, and reduce social isolation through inclusive, in-person engagement.
For more information, visit Port Coquitlam Community Foundation.