Grants and student awards

Open Grants program

New for 2025-26, the Open Grants program brings together a number of HCF funds into one granting opportunity. 

The purpose of the Open Grants program is to assist and provide funds in the fields of education, health and human services, recreation, the environment and the arts in Hamilton.

Who is eligible to apply?

HCF grants only to registered Canadian charities and others qualified as described in Section 110 of the Income Tax Act.  On occasion, not-for-profit organizations without charitable status may be sponsored by a registered charity

What kinds of projects/initiatives will be funded?

Hamilton Community Foundation provides grants to local programs and organizations that improve the quality of life in our city in the health & human services, recreation, education, and environmental sectors. Funding assessment is also guided by values of equity, diversity and inclusion. 

What will not be funded?

How do I apply?

The Open Grants Program will grant twice a year – in May and October. There are two funding streams per call:

How often can we apply?

Organizations may submit one application in each funding stream for different projects/initiatives per fiscal year (April 1, 2025 – March 31, 2026). If you are unsuccessful in your request in the first round, you may re-submit in the second round for the same or a different project.  We suggest that if you are re-submitting for the same project that was declined, you consult with HCF staff prior to submission.   

Please note that you are free to apply to other open call funds at HCF as well.

Check out our FAQ here and our assessment tool here.

Questions may be directed to Sharon Charters at s.charters@hamiltoncommunityfoundation.ca or Elizabeth Webb at e.webb@hamiltoncommunityfoundation.ca.