Apply for the Neighbourhood Fund
Get up to $7,500 for projects that bring neighbours together, help people feel welcome or improve shared spaces in your community.
Groups of 2 or more neighbours can apply.
On this page:
- Check if you can apply
- Plan your idea
- Check application deadlines
- Get your documents ready
- Apply
- Get help with your applications
1. Check if you can apply
Neighbourhood Fund grants are for Waterloo residents who want to plan community projects.
Your project must:
- be led by 2 or more neighbours
- focus on building community and helping people feel connected
- use spaces that bring people together
- be neighbourhood-based (not city-wide) and within Waterloo city limits
- be equitable, accessible and inclusive
- have support from the neighbourhood and be open to all who want to join
- finish within 1 year of receiving funding
You can apply for up to $7,500 per project.
What this grant does not fund
This grant does not support:
- ongoing operating costs
- projects that have already started
- applications from a single individual
- ideas and organizations that are not neighbourhood-based
For details, read the Neighbourhood Grant Policy (PDF).
2. Plan your idea
Work with your neighbours to plan a project that supports community connection.
Think about your project:
- who will take part
- what you want to do
- where and when it will happen
- why it matters to your neighbourhood
Need ideas? Visit the event ideas page, the placemaking project page or explore our how-to guides.
3. Check application deadlines
We accept applications 3 times per year.
2025 deadlines:
- February 12, 2025
- May 14, 2025
- October 22, 2025
All applications are due by 2 p.m. on the deadline date.
4. Get your budget ready
Before you apply, download and fill out the budget sheet (Excel).
Include this file with your application.
In your budget, include:
- the total amount you’re requesting (up to $7,500)
- expected expenses and estimated costs
- notes about how you plan to spend the funds
You only need to fill out the “Budget” column. If your project is approved, you’ll complete the “Actual” column after your project finishes.
5. Apply
Apply online or email neighbourhoods@waterloo.ca before the deadline.
Include in your application:
- a short description of your project — who, what, where, when, why and how
- how your project connects neighbours and welcomes participation
- how much funding you need (up to $7,500)
- what you will spend the funds on
- your budget sheet (Excel)
The neighbourhoods team will review your application and follow up with next steps.
Get help with your application
The neighbourhoods team can help you:
- develop your project idea
- confirm if it qualifies for funding
- prepare your application
- plan your neighbourhood project
Email neighbourhoods@waterloo.ca to get started.
