The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is now accepting applications for its 2025 discretionary grant program, with $90,600 in funding available this year for registered not-for-profit organizations and volunteer groups based in town.
Eligible applicants can apply for a share of the funding between April 22 and May 26, according to an April 21 news release by the town.
The municipal program is funded by revenue from the town’s parking program and will consider events that benefit NOTL residents and major capital improvements. Events that require an admission fee or ticket cost are not eligible to apply.
It aims to support programs and volunteer efforts that improve life in NOTL through cultural, social, environmental or economic means.
Recipients can use the grants for community events, small infrastructure upgrades or purchasing equipment that benefits the public.
The program had been paused for a few years due to the COVID-19 pandemic and funding issues, according to the town’s website.
When the town announced it would be relaunching the program, it initially expected a higher budget for 2025, up to $106,000.
However, the most recent announcement on April 21 specifies $90,600 in funding will be available.
The program still made an impact in 2024 when the Upper Canada Heritage Trail was approved for $21,000 of the town’s remaining discretionary grant funds to complete another kilometre of groundwork before winter, helping move phase two of the trail closer to completion.
In the release, chief administrator Bruce Zvaniga stated that the program will help NOTL groups meet new needs and opportunities, while also showing the town’s commitment to supporting the community.
By backing NOTL projects, the town is empowering its residents to bring ideas to life and make a difference in the community, stated Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa.
Applicants must provide financial statements from the previous year and a budget. If it’s your first time applying, organizations should include multiple sets of past financial statements to show it is financially stable.
To start the application process, visit the town’s website at notl.com/council-government/budget-finance/discretionary-grant-program.
