Prepare for the 2026 funding season with early planning.

This guide provides information about major grant programs expected to open in 2026. It includes key details on eligibility, priority sectors, and timelines to help non-governmental organizations plan ahead.

The Halifax Regional Municipality, or HRM, offers a Community Grants Program. This program gives money to registered non-profit groups and charities working in the Halifax area. There are two main types of grants. Project grants offer up to five thousand dollars for specific activities. Capital grants offer up to twenty-five thousand dollars for buying equipment or improving buildings. The program focuses on areas like arts, sports, diversity, the environment, and public safety. To apply, an organization must have been officially registered for at least one year. Their work should aim to improve community well-being or local infrastructure.

The program is an important investment by the city in its local volunteer and non-profit groups. This funding helps community organizations provide essential services, take care of community spaces, and promote inclusion for all residents.

Why This Program is Important
This grant is a key resource for maintaining Halifax’s community services and spaces.

• It improves quality of life by funding fun and educational activities.

• It supports vulnerable people by prioritizing accessible services.

• It preserves local culture by helping projects about community history and the arts.

• It enables environmental action by funding local climate and conservation projects.

Main Focus Areas
Grants are given for projects in several key categories:

• Arts and Culture: For community art and local history projects.

• Diversity and Accessibility: For work that removes barriers and aids people with special needs.

• Environment and Climate Change: For projects supporting sustainability and conservation.

• Public Safety: For emergency help and services that make neighbourhoods safer.

• Recreation and Leisure: For programs and facilities that encourage active living.

Types of Grants Available
There are two funding categories:

1. Project Grants: These provide between five hundred and five thousand dollars for short term programs or events.

2. Capital Grants: These provide up to twenty five thousand dollars for physical improvements like building repairs, buying large equipment, or creating permanent community amenities.

Who Can Apply
To be eligible, an organization must:

• Be a registered non-profit, charity, or non-profit co-operative.

• Have been registered for at least one full year.

• Work mainly within the Halifax Regional Municipality.

• Be in good financial and legal standing.

How to Apply

1. Read the official program guide from the Halifax website.

2. Decide if you need a Project Grant or a Capital Grant.

3. Prepare your registration papers, financial statements, and a detailed project budget.

4. Complete the official application form, clearly explaining your project.

5. Submit your application before the deadline, which is usually March 31st.

6. Applications are reviewed by city staff and a committee based on community benefit.

Helpful Tips

• Do not apply if your group has been registered for less than a year.

• Make sure your financial documents are clear and show why you need the grant.

• Do not ask for money to pay for regular bills or existing salaries unless for a new, specific project.

• If applying with another group, name one organization as the main contact and fund recipient.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a new non-profit apply? No, you must be registered for at least one year.

2. Is there a minimum grant? Yes, the minimum for a project grant is five hundred dollars.

3. What is the maximum for a renovation? Renovations are capital grants, with a maximum of twenty five thousand dollars.

4. Can we apply for more than one grant per year? Usually, groups are limited to one application per year.

5. Are joint applications allowed? Yes, but the grant money will be given to only one of the applying organizations.

6. Does this grant cover emergency safety programs? Yes, public safety is a core focus area.

7. Who cannot apply? Private businesses, individuals, and groups that are not registered non-profits or charities.

Conclusion
The Halifax Community Grants Program is a fundamental source of support for local non-profits. By offering different sizes of grants, it helps organizations make Halifax a safer, more inclusive, and vibrant place to live. The most successful applications are those that show a clear benefit to the community and come from well-managed organizations.