7 Social Innovation Grants You Can Apply For (Canada Edition)

Finding funding shouldn’t be hard.

Whether you're just starting your social impact organization or expanding an existing one, having the right support can make all the difference. But let’s be honest… finding the right grants isn’t always easy.

Many grant listings are blocked behind paywalls, others are confusing, and at times, it’s hard to tell if you even qualify without spending hours sifting through eligibility criteria.

↳ So we did the work for you.

Below are 7 grant opportunities currently open (or about to open) to Canadians working in the social or environmental impact space. We’ve summarized each one to save you time, so in just a few minutes, you’ll know:

• Which grants you’re likely eligible for

• When the deadlines are

• And where to apply

Let’s get into it. ↴

1. CIBC Foundation – Community and Sponsorship Grants

The CIBC Foundation funds Canadian registered charities and qualified donees supporting causes like cancer initiatives, inclusive communities, and financial education.

Eligibility: Canadian registered charities, not-for-profits, or qualified donees with sustainable financial practices and a measurable impact framework.

Deadline: Applications accepted on a rolling basis.

Apply here: [CIBC Foundation Grant Program]

2. CN Community Investments

CN contributes millions annually to initiatives that enhance community safety, sustainability, and well-being across Canada.

Eligibility: Community organizations aligned with CN’s values i.e., projects that strengthen local programming around safety, environment, or social services.

Deadline: Applications accepted on a rolling basis.

Apply here: [CN Community Investments] 

3. RBC Community Investments

RBC and its Foundation support Canadian initiatives through community investments and sponsorships under their “Ideas for People and Planet” framework.

Eligibility: Organizations tackling societal or environmental challenges in line with RBC's priorities. Their priorities are as follows:

1. Support the transition to a net zero economy

2. Equip people with the skills for a thriving future

3. Drive more inclusive opportunities for prosperity

Deadline: The funding opportunity will be available in Fall 2025, therefore the deadline is yet to be announced.

Apply here: [RBC Community Investments] 

4. SSHRC Policy Innovation Partnership Grants

Funding to support research that informs public policy. These grants are focused on areas like social innovation, equity, and productivity.

Eligibility: Academic-community partnerships in Canada.

Deadline: September 10, 2025 (8:00 p.m. ET).

Apply here: [SSHRC Policy Innovation Partnership Grants]

5. TELUS Friendly Future Foundation

An independent charity that supports youth-focused programs improving health or education through responsible digital access solutions.

Eligibility: CRA-registered charities or qualified donees, either focused on health or education, serving youth (up to age 29) in supported regions.

Deadline: Applications accepted on a rolling basis..

Apply here: [TELUS Friendly Future Foundation]

6. Vancity Community Grants (Province-Specific)

Supports BC-based nonprofits, businesses, and Indigenous groups working in areas like climate action, equity, inclusion, and social housing.

Eligibility: BC-based nonprofits, Indigenous-led organizations, or impact businesses.

Deadline: Varies by stream. Confirm details for your target area below.

Apply here: [Vancity Community Grants] 

7. Quebec Call for Projects in Social Innovation (Province-Specific)

Enables funding (up to CAD $500,000) for social innovators, specifically for research and development partnerships in international markets.

Eligibility: Quebec-based nonprofits, social enterprises, or public sector organizations.

Deadline: Applications open in Fall 2025.

Apply here: [Quebec Social Innovation Projects]

We know how time-consuming and frustrating the grant search process can be, so we hope this guide helped make things easier.

Feel free to forward this to any founders who could use it!

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— The Impact Toolbox Team