Apply for a READI Micro Grant

Get up to $1,500 per year to support events that promote community connection, culture and inclusion. 

On this page:

  1. What this grant supports
  2. Check if you can apply
  3. Prepare your application
  4. Apply year round
  5. Contact us

1. What this grant supports

This grant helps fund public events and activities that bring people together. Apply for up to $1,500.

Your event should:

  • have a clear activity and timeline
  • build community connection
  • create a sense of belonging
  • support learning and growth
  • celebrate culture and identity

We may also consider other projects that support goals in the Get READI Plan.

This grant does not fund:

  • projects focused on religious teachings
  • activities that support political parties or candidates
  • operating costs like rent, insurance or utilities

2. Check if your group can apply

You can apply if you are:

  • a not-for-profit group or organization
  • a registered or unregistered group (you must have a sponsoring organization if unregistered)
  • a partnership or coalition of groups
  • located in the Region of Waterloo
  • serving Waterloo residents

Groups can apply together, but one group must lead the application and manage the funding.

You cannot apply if you are:

  • an individual applying on your own
  • a for-profit business
  • a government or public sector organization (such as a school, hospital or college)
  • an organization with an existing financial agreement with the City of Waterloo

3. Prepare your application

When you apply, you will need to provide:

  • your organization’s details, including address and contact information
  • a description of your event and how it will benefit the community, support inclusion, improve diverse learning and capacity building
  • how much funding you’re requesting (up to $1,500) and how you plan to use it

4. Apply year round

Apply any time until December 31, 2026.

We review applications as we receive them. Funding is limited, so apply early.

Apply for a READI Micro Grant

Contact us

Email diversityandinclusion@waterloo.ca if you have questions about the grant or the application process.