Following a successful second intake earlier this year, the City of St. Catharines is now accepting applications for the third round of its Neighbourhood Micro Grants program.
Residents can apply for up to $1,500 in funding to support neighbourhood projects and events during the upcoming intake period, which runs from July 1, 2025, to Sept. 30, 2025. This round will fund projects taking place between Dec. 1, 2025, and May 31, 2026.
The Neighbourhood Micro Grants program offers funding for resident-led projects that bring neighbours together, promote social connections, and enhance the vibrancy of St. Catharines’ communities.
“This third intake provides yet-another opportunity to provide residents with the resources they need to create meaningful and impactful activities to bolster the sense of community in their St. Catharines’ neighbourhoods,” said Eric Lamothe, Manager, Community Initiatives and Partnerships. “We’re excited to support even-more creative ideas that add to the vibrancy of our city.”
The City encourages residents to consider a variety of eligible projects, such as:
Neighbourhood picnics or potlucks;
Community workshops – such as skill-sharing or learning a new craft;
Neighbourhood events – including music, clothing or book exchanges, arts and crafts, food drives, and more;
Neighbourhood Winter Festival.
Eligible expenses include park permits, insurance, and project materials. Funding will not be approved for items such as presenter honorariums, donations to charities, or capital costs.
To qualify, groups must include at least three residents from different households. Events and activities must be free, open to the public, and take place in accessible spaces, such as neighbourhood parks or other public areas. Projects can be one-time events, or a series of activities completed within a month.
After the event, successful applicants are required to submit a final report detailing outcomes, including expenses and receipts. The release of funds is contingent on the submission and approval of this report.
For more information on the Neighbourhood Micro Grants program, including eligibility details and how to apply, visit stcatharines.ca/MicroGrants.