Need funding for a youth project in Calgary?
Grants
Access Grants for Youth-Led Projects
We’re all about empowering youth to make a positive impact in their communities. That includes grants and funding for youth-led projects. If you’ve got a passion for change and a spark of creativity, you’ve come to the right place!
What We Do
We believe in hands-on philanthropy. We give young people the tools and support they need to fund and launch amazing projects that make a difference. Our youth-led committee reviews every application to select projects that are meaningful, inclusive, and impactful. Take the quick pre-screen quiz below to see if your project might be a fit.
1. Does your project exclude certain groups?
2. Is your project a business for-profit venture?
3. Will your project pass funds on to another organization or individual?
4. Does your project include conference fees, tuition, or similar costs for individuals or groups?
5. Are any salaries or fees for individuals included in your project budget?
If you answered yes to any of the questions, then unfortunately we cannot fund you. If all of your answers were no, then read on to find the right grant for you.
Our Grants
Macrogrant: Big Ideas Wanted!
Got a big idea that can change the city? Our Macrogrant is perfect for you! This grant is all about empowering youth, ages 12 – 18, to lead large-scale projects that make a splash in the community. We’re looking for projects with big dreams and even bigger impacts.
Size of Grant: Up to $2,000
Who Can Apply: Individuals (ages 12+), informal grassroots groups, nonprofit societies, and registered charities within 50 km of Calgary.
When to Apply: Twice a year in mid-October and mid-April.
Turnaround: Funds are awarded to successful applicants in November and May. Unsuccessful applicants will also be notified at these times.
Follow-up Required: Within one year of receiving the grant, share your success with a simple 1 -3 page final report, participation tracking, financial documentation, and photos.
Next Application Deadline: April 13, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
Microgrant: Quick and Easy
We know youth have awesome ideas that can make a difference right now. Our Microgrant is designed to be quick and easy, giving you the boost you need to get started right away. If it matters to you, it matters to us!
Please note: Since our microgrant is intended to be quick and easy, we are unable to provide specific feedback to each applicant on their application.
Size of Grant: Up to $200
Who Can Apply: Individuals (ages 12+) and informal grassroots groups
When to Apply: Applications are accepted monthly throughout the year.
Turnaround: Funds are awarded to successful applicants the following month. Unsuccessful applicants are notified at the same time.
Follow-up Required: Just drop us an email, send a photo, or give us a call to share your success story.
Next Application Deadline: Third Monday of the month at 9:00 a.m.
Jack Leslie Youth Environmental Grant: Go Green!
Are you passionate about the environment? The Jack Leslie Youth Environment Grant is your chance to shine! In partnership with The City of Calgary, Parks Foundation, and Youth Central, this grant supports youth-led projects that benefit our planet.
Size of Grant: $1,000 for groups / $500 for individuals
Who Can Apply: Individuals (elementary+) who haven’t graduated from high school yet, informal grassroots groups, schools, nonprofits, and charities.
When to Apply: Once a year in January.
Turnaround: Funds are awarded to successful applicants in February.
Follow-up Required: Attend the Virtual Award Ceremony and share a group photo.
Next Application Deadline: January 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding is available?
Macrogrant (October/April) – $5000 is available per cycle, but the maximum you can apply for is $2000. Typically 3-5 projects are selected per macrogrant cycle.
Microgrant – $200/per month, awarded to one project
Jack Leslie Youth Environmental Grant – $2,500 in funding available, 2 groups and 1 individual are selected.
Which grant is the best fit for my project?
Consider the timing and the total amount of funding needed to support your project. If it is a larger idea that you want to act on during the academic year, apply to the macrogrant in October, so that you can receive funds in November.
If it is something you want to take action in the next month or two, then apply to the microgrant. And if your project is environmentally related, then we suggest that you apply to the Jack Leslie grant.
If in doubt, reach out. We’re happy to help. Email cyf@youthcentral.com.
Can an adult apply on behalf of youth?
Adult support is welcome and encouraged. That said, applications that clearly show youth involvement are prioritized.
If my application was rejected, can I apply again?
Yes, you can, but in this case, we encourage you to reach out to the Calgary Youth Foundation first to understand how you might be able to strengthen your application.
If my project received funding in the past, can I apply again?
Technically yes, however with limited funds available, priority may be given to new applicants in order to spread the love. If your project is growing or developing and you need additional funding to take it to the next level, consider reaching out to the Coordinator to see if it is worth your time to reapply.
Still Have Questions?
Reach out to our Program Coordinator at cyf@youthcentral.com.
Other Sources of Youth Grants
Volunteer Alberta offers grants of up to $5,000 for new or pre-existing community projects. Applicants must be aged 16+ and Canada Service Corps alumni.
The Calgary Foundation provides up to $1,000 of grant support available for local community projects that build connections in our communities. To qualify, informal grassroots groups must partner with a charity or non-profit society on the project and application.
CANConnect Diversity Micro-Grants
GLOCAL Canada Foundation offers up to $5,000 grants to young Canadians aged 15 – 30 to lead and create innovative civic engagement projects.
CANConnect Diversity Micro-Grants
GLOCAL Canada Foundation offers up to $5,000 grants to young Canadians aged 15 – 30 to lead and create innovative civic engagement projects.
We know organizations can be hesitant to fund youth-driven projects. If you are familiar with other sources of youth funding but don’t see it listed here, please email cyf@youthcentral.com.