OAKVILLE, Ont. — Ontario is investing nearly $30 million through the Ontario Trillium Foundation to support more than 300 non-profit organizations, First Nations communities and small municipalities, with funding aimed at improving facilities and community spaces across the province.
The provincial government said the 2026 investment will help organizations upgrade infrastructure, expand programming and improve accessibility. Projects supported through the funding include recreation facilities, cultural spaces, community resource centres and programs serving children, youth and people with disabilities.
The funding is also expected to support employment and local economic activity as organizations undertake renovations, construction, repairs and equipment purchases.
Capital Grants Target Community Infrastructure Across Ontario
The funding is being distributed through the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Capital grant stream, which provides investments of up to $200,000 for projects involving construction, renovations, retrofits, repairs and equipment.
“Our government is investing in the facilities that bring people together every day, from arenas and community centres to arts, culture and recreation spaces,” said Zee Hamid, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Today’s investment will support local jobs, strengthen community organizations and ensure families have safe, accessible places to gather, stay active and enjoy local events together.”
Projects receiving support span several Ontario communities and address a range of infrastructure needs.
In Milton, funding will support accessibility upgrades at a recreation facility intended to increase participation in sports and community activities for people of different abilities.
A Burlington project will create an accessible greenhouse and garden designed to help people with developmental disabilities develop skills, build independence and participate in inclusive outdoor programming.
Projects Focus on Accessibility and Facility Improvements
In Huronia, improvements are planned for a Francophone community hub, including accessible entrances, upgraded infrastructure and modern digital signage. The work is intended to reduce accessibility barriers while strengthening an established French-language cultural space.
An Oakville recreation centre will receive a new energy-efficient heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system. The upgrade is expected to improve indoor comfort, reduce emissions and provide a safer environment for visitors and members.
In Sudbury, a community resource centre will receive accessible entrances, kitchen facilities and washrooms, as well as new smart board technology. The upgrades are designed to improve participation and independence for people with disabilities.
“Communities directly benefit when local spaces are accessible, safe, and equipped to help non-profits deliver programs and services people need. With support from OTF’s Capital grant stream and the Government of Ontario, this investment will fund capital improvements that benefit thousands of Ontarians,” said Bob Chant, Board Chair of the Ontario Trillium Foundation.
New Grant Stream Aims to Strengthen Ontario’s Non-Profit Sector
Alongside the Capital grants, the Ontario Trillium Foundation has introduced a Sector grant stream intended to strengthen the capacity of non-profit organizations.
The program will fund projects designed to help organizations adapt to changing community needs and pursue alternative funding opportunities. Eligible organizations can apply for between $50,000 and $300,000 annually for projects lasting one, two or three years.
Applications for the new program are open until Oct. 14, 2026.
Ontario Reports More Than $887 Million Invested Since 2018
The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming and provides funding for community-based initiatives across the province.
Organizations can apply for between $10,000 and $200,000 over 12 months through the Capital grant stream to update buildings, improve physical spaces and purchase fixed or non-fixed equipment.
According to the province, Ontario has invested more than $887 million in over 8,000 projects through Ontario Trillium Foundation programs since 2018. The government said those investments have created more than 12,000 full-time jobs and generated more than $1.3 billion in economic benefits for communities across Ontario.
The latest funding round places a particular emphasis on accessibility and infrastructure, while expanding the foundation’s support for organizations seeking to respond to changing community needs.