Deadline: 15-Apr-2026
The Core Support Grants empower Vancouver communities by funding programs that address social inequities and support vulnerable residents. Eligible non-profits, charities, and First Nations Bands can apply for funding to deliver social services, strengthen organizational capacity, and foster inclusive, accessible programs. Programs must serve Vancouver residents or local organizations directly.
Overview
The Core Support Grants provide funding to organizations that tackle social inequities and support vulnerable residents in Vancouver. The program targets organizations delivering direct social services, building capacity within the non-profit sector, and assisting communities in navigating social change.
Program Objectives
The Core Support Grants focus on:
- Direct social service delivery: Programs that meet the immediate needs of individuals and families.
- Capacity-building: Helping other non-profits improve service delivery and organizational effectiveness.
- Addressing social issues: Tackling systemic challenges that affect vulnerable populations.
- Supporting organizational adaptation: Assisting organizations to manage change and maintain sustainability.
Eligible Applicants
Eligible organizations include:
- Registered non-profit societies
- Community service co-ops
- Social enterprises wholly owned by a non-profit
- Registered charities
- First Nations Bands
Additional notes:
- Organizations with budgets under $5 million are prioritized.
- Ineligible organizations may partner with a fiscal sponsor that meets eligibility criteria.
- Applicants must have:
- An independent, active volunteer governing body
- Bylaws ensuring staff cannot serve as voting members of the board or executive
Inclusivity and Accessibility Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate that programs and organizational practices are:
- Inclusive and welcoming to all ages, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, religions, languages, cultural backgrounds, migration statuses, socio-economic conditions, and under-represented communities.
- Accessible to all Vancouver residents, regardless of immigration status.
- Respectful of privacy for participants.
- Exceptions for targeted programming are permitted only when a specific population focus is necessary.
Funding Scope
- Funded programs must serve Vancouver residents directly or support Vancouver-based non-profits.
- Funding strengthens local social services infrastructure and ensures resources reach the intended communities.
- Eligible activities include program delivery, capacity-building initiatives, and community support services.
How to Apply
- Confirm eligibility: Ensure your organization meets registration, budget, and governance criteria.
- Define program objectives: Outline direct social services, capacity-building, or social issue interventions.
- Demonstrate inclusivity: Show policies, practices, and programs are accessible and welcoming.
- Prepare supporting documents: Include governance details, financial statements, and program plans.
- Submit application: Follow the official submission guidelines and deadlines.
Tips for Successful Applications
- Highlight direct impact on vulnerable residents in Vancouver.
- Emphasize organizational capacity and sustainability to deliver the proposed program.
- Demonstrate collaboration or partnerships with other local organizations if applicable.
- Include metrics or indicators to measure program effectiveness and community benefit.
- Ensure all activities comply with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and BC Human Rights Code.
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the Core Support Grants?
Eligible applicants include non-profits, charities, social enterprises, co-ops, and First Nations Bands with annual budgets under $5 million.
2. Can ineligible organizations participate?
Yes, by partnering with a fiscal sponsor that meets eligibility criteria.
3. What types of programs are funded?
Programs delivering direct social services, building non-profit capacity, addressing social inequities, or supporting organizational change.
4. Must programs serve Vancouver residents?
Yes, funded programs must directly benefit Vancouver residents or support Vancouver-based non-profits.
5. Are there inclusivity requirements?
Yes, programs must be welcoming and accessible to all residents, with exceptions only for targeted programming.
6. What governance standards are required?
Organizations must have an independent volunteer board with staff excluded from voting roles.
7. How does the program ensure privacy?
Applicants must demonstrate that participant information is handled confidentially and in compliance with privacy standards.
Conclusion
The Core Support Grants strengthen Vancouver’s social services infrastructure by funding programs that directly address inequities, support vulnerable residents, and build organizational capacity. By prioritizing inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability, the program ensures meaningful impact for communities across the city.
For more information, visit City of Vancouver.