Learn About the 35 Microgrant Recipients HERE

Be a catalyst for community connection! The Power of Us microgrant program provides up to $1,000 to resident-led groups, grassroots organizations, and informal collectives across the City of Toronto towards projects that help build social connections and increase civic participation. The funded initiatives seek to create opportunities to activate neighbourhoods, animate public spaces, or bridge connections between people to increase a sense of belonging in our communities and address the growing challenge of social isolation. 

Toronto Foundation has partnered with Volunteer Toronto to coordinate this program. 

Applications open 

Information Session
Register HERE

Applications close

Grant recipients are notified 

Funds are distributed, and projects can begin 

Project completion date 

Project reports due

• Project activities must take place within the City of Toronto  
  

• Projects that are event based cannot be entirely virtual as this program seeks to encourage in-person connections; hybrid events are acceptable 

• Any service offered or event created must be free for participants 

• Activities cannot be used to generate any revenue

• Applicants must be 18 years of age or older and reside in the City of Toronto 

• Individuals are eligible to apply but must be associated with a group of at least three or more individuals 

• Groups can be newly formed but must include the minimum number of individuals 

• Organizations CANNOT be businesses, registered nonprofits or charities

• Projects must be completed within 6 months of receiving the grant; they can be either one-time events or a series of activities within that period

APPLICATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 15, 2024

Research from the 2023 Toronto’s Vital Signs report points to three alarming trends: 

Participation in groups and activities is down by approximately 30% versus before the pandemic.

Toronto ranks as among the loneliest places in the country. About 925,000 adults in Toronto (37%) felt lonely on at least three or four days in the last week in 2023—higher than the rest of the country (28%). 

Between 2018 and 2022, the volunteer rate in Toronto fell from 37% to 25%. Considering the average volunteering levels, this equates to a loss of approximately 36 million volunteer hours or 20,000 full-time positions. 

We believe increasing participation in group activities can curb the rising tide of social isolation and loneliness. Engaging in your community with others can increase your wellbeing, expand your social support network, and have a positive impact on society as a whole. 

• Tea party for newcomers
  
• Community garden 

• Neighbourhood block party 

• Park clean-up 

• Skills sharing workshop 

• Neighbourhood walking tour or bike ride 

• Community sports tournament or demo (eg. karate in the park) 

• Toy/food drive 

• Public space beautification

• Healing circle 

This program is generously supported by the following organizations:

If you have questions about The Power of Us Microgrants, please contact:

Phylicia Davis-Wesseling, Community Relations Officer – grants@torontofoundation.ca