Community Funding: Projects and Programs & Events

Is This the Right Application?

Use this application for:

Projects

One-time initiatives with a clear start and end date that result in:

• a facility improvement;
• a new or improved community asset;
• an equipment purchase;
• a completed study; or
• a completed plan.

Examples may include accessibility improvements, repairs or upgrades to a community facility, new equipment, playground improvements, feasibility studies, and community plans.

Programs & Events

Planned activities delivered over a defined period, or one-time or recurring community gatherings, that provide direct community benefit.

Examples may include festivals, cultural events, recreation programs, workshops, educational activities, community celebrations, and wellness initiatives.

Looking for operating funding?

Costs associated with sustaining the core functioning, governance, and administration of an organization are funded through a separate application process.

Funding Contributions

Community Funding is intended to complement an organization’s own investment in an activity. Funding limits, applicant contribution requirements, eligible in-kind contributions, and other program conditions are set out in the Community Funding Policy. Organizations should review the policy before applying.

Read the Community Funding Policy

Before Applying

After reviewing the Community Funding Policy, and before starting an application, organizations should:

• Prepare a complete description of the proposed activity.
• Develop a realistic activity budget.
• Gather quotes or estimates where applicable.
• Identify other funding sources and contributions.
• Gather any supporting documents required for the request.

Organizations may also need to provide current bylaws, a conflict of interest policy, and recent financial statements if these documents are not already on file with the Municipality.

The online form cannot currently be saved partway through. Applicants should review the questions and gather the required information before beginning.

Applications must also be signed by the highest signing authority in the organization, usually the Chair or President.

What Happens After an Application Is Submitted?

1. Staff Review

Municipal staff review the application for completeness and eligibility. Applicants may be contacted if clarification, corrections, or additional documents are required.

2. Assessment

Complete applications are assessed according to the Community Funding Policy, including:

• community benefit;
• organizational readiness;
• financial need;
• feasibility;
• budget accuracy; and
• alignment with the selected funding category.

3. Decision

Funding decisions are made in accordance with the Community Funding Policy. Most requests require Council approval. Applicants receive written notice of the decision.

4. Payment

Approved funding is issued after any outstanding conditions have been met. Applicants should allow approximately six to eight weeks from submission for review, decision, and payment. Large or complex requests may take longer. Organizations should apply well before the proposed activity start date.

After Funding Is Approved

Funding recipients are responsible for:

• using the funding for the approved purpose;
• notifying the Municipality before making significant changes to the activity or budget;
• keeping financial records and supporting documentation;
• acknowledging municipal support where required; and
• submitting a final report within 60 days of completing the activity.

Any additional conditions will be included in the written funding approval.

Ready to Apply?

Review the policy and gather the required information before opening the application.

Submit a Community Funding Request

Need Assistance?

Organizations are encouraged to contact Culture & Community Development before applying, particularly for large or complex activities or where the correct funding category is unclear.

Lisa Organ
Community Funding Administrator
1-866-258-0223 ext. 7
lisa.organ@invernesscounty.ca