Apply for up to $300 to support projects that promote neighbourhood connection! Applications are open all year round, simply follow the steps below to apply:
- Brainstorm an idea for a new event, project, or activity.
- Email the neighbourhoods team to apply for up to $300 in funding. Include your idea (who, what, where, when, why, and how in a few sentences) and outline how much you are request and what you will be spending the funds on.
- Receive funds and complete your neighbourhood connection project!
Funding
Mini grants support Waterloo residents working on projects that promote belonging in neighbourhoods. The maximum funding per project is $300 cash and/or in-kind support for eligible expenses. This grant supports new and one-time activities.
Ideas
The following are some neighbourhood projects that would be eligible for mini grants:
- holiday card making workshop
- outdoor activities such as water play, sports, or nature exploration
- scavenger hunt supplies
- potluck, barbeque, or cultural food celebration
- safety, wellness, or environment workshops on a neighbourhood scale
- sidewalk chalk, arts, or crafts contest kits
- pollinator patches or gardens
- campfire event
When to apply
You can email the neighbourhoods team about a mini grant all year round! Plan ahead, where possible, and email at least one month before your idea is ready to start. Funding is open from January 1 to December 31. Applicants may receive funds twice in a 12-month period.
Successful mini grant recipients
Activity kits for families
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lakeshore South Community Association noticed families were looking for fun and engaging activities to do at home. Neighbourhood leaders at Adventure4change created activity kits and distributed them to local families to enjoy. These kits promoted creativity and enhanced the well-being of youth in our community!
Talk turkey to me photo contest
Neighbours in Lincoln Heights were spotting a number of new visitors to the area but of an unusual variety- wild turkeys! The sightings led to the idea for a neighbourhood photo contest. The entries included submissions for adult, child, and meme categories. The winners received a prize for their participation and neighbours got to see the turkey in action throughout Lincoln Heights.
Street parties
Many neighbours across Waterloo have hosted fun neighbourhood street parties. These events are great opportunities to enjoy your neighbourhood and build connections with the community. Some neighbours have included entertainment, like music, dancing, and magicians, and others have provided yummy snacks, with barbeques and food trucks! There are lots of different approaches to planning a street party for neighbours to enjoy.