Ask your questions at our Public Information Sessions!

We're here to help you navigate our new grant program.

Come see us in-person:

  • September 24 at 1 p.m.
  • October 15 at 6 p.m.

Almonte Old Town Hall, Third Floor, 14 Bridge St, Almonte

Community Impact Grant Program

Our new grants program is here!

This new Mississippi Mills Community Impact Grant Program (pilot) replaces Mississippi Mills Annual Municipal Grants and Micro Grants

Intake 1 for the 2026 season opens September 30, 2025

View info flyer

Funding Local Ideas. Strengthening Community Connections.

The Mississippi Mills Community Impact Grant Program is designed to support the incredible local organizations and volunteer groups that make our community vibrant and welcoming. Whether you're organizing a neighbourhood event, launching a new initiative, or growing a long-standing program, this grant offers both financial and in-kind support to help bring your ideas to life.

It’s all about strengthening the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Mississippi Mills—while making sure everyone feels included, connected, and safe. By encouraging projects that promote wellbeing and community resilience, the program helps foster a sense of belonging across all neighbourhoods.

From microgrants for neighbourhood gatherings to larger partnerships with lasting impact, the Community Impact Grant Program is helping shape a resilient, creative, and connected Mississippi Mills.

Funding Priorities:

  • Community Belonging & Inclusion
  • Tourism & Economic Development
  • Arts, Culture & Heritage
  • Youth, Senior & Intergenerational Engagement
  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Community Safety & Wellbeing

Priority Consideration:

  • Projects featuring youth, equity-deserving groups, or local artists
  • Events that strengthen existing festivals or community programming and deliver clear tourism and economic benefits
  • Initiatives that promote mental health, wellness, and community connection

The grant program is divided into seven streams to meet the community's different needs. Take a look at each stream below:

$200

Neighbourhood Micro Grant

Resident-led hyper-local projects that build neighbourhood connections – $200 

Focused on the hyper-local, this stream celebrates community-building right on residents’ doorsteps. Whether it’s a street party or a snowperson-building party, these resident-led events reflect the program’s foundational values: social connection, grassroots creativity, and pride of place—with a strong focus on inclusivity and storytelling.  

This stream supports grassroots engagement, neighbourhood connections, and local pride, aligning Council’s Strategic Plan Principal # 2 “Welcoming, inclusive, active and healthy community”. 

  • Block parties, scavenger hunts, and park yoga 

  • Quilting bees, storytelling events, community clean-ups 

  • Cultural cooking events or snowman-building contests 

  • Temporary hyper (neighbourhood) public art projects and/or related celebrations 

Micro Grants 

  • Open to individual residents (not organizations) 

  • Application must be signed by two applicants from separate households 

  • Events must be inclusive and hyper-local (neighbourhood) 

  • No financial documents required, but receipts must be retained  

Ineligible Applicants/Projects:

  • Applicants profiting privately from the project   
    (unless receiving an honorarium for services)  

  • Political parties or religious organizations promoting specific adherence  

  • Organizations or individuals outside Mississippi Mills  

  • Projects with infrastructure components (except for permitted community gardens, little libraries)  

  • Schools and churches are not eligible (see FAQ)  

  • Fundraising events are not eligible   

  • Sports events must be open to all residents to qualify (see FAQ)  

  • Organizations that receive annual funding through the municipal budget process (e.g., museums or organizations with dedicated budget line items)  

All forms listed below are required:

Completed application forms can be sent to the Community Services Department for consideration. 

Email: tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca

Drop-off: Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Almonte (a secure drop box is available to the left of the ground-level doors by the parking lot)

Mail:
ATTN: Tiffany MacLaren
Box 400
14 Bridge St
Almonte ON  K0A 1A0

Up to $500

Live Local Activation Grant

Small-scale live entertainment in semi-public or public spaces – Up to $500 

This micro-scale stream energizes public and semi-public spaces with live entertainment that’s joyful, welcoming, and culturally enriching. While promoting local artists remains a priority, this stream also welcomes performances from outside the community that expose residents to diverse traditions, high-quality artistry, and unique cultural experiences. From courtyard concerts to poetry reading events, it complements broader program priorities by animating streetscapes, fostering artistic growth, and inviting community connection through accessible cultural programming. 

The Live Local Activation Grant aligns with the “Welcoming, Inclusive, Active and Healthy Community” principle of the Mississippi Mills 2023–2027 Strategic Plan by animating public spaces with accessible, culturally enriching performances that foster community connection and celebrate diversity. 

  • Acoustic performances in parks or downtown 

  • Spoken word, storytelling, or open mic nights 

  • Pop-up dance, theatre, or cultural showcases 

  • Guest artists from diverse cultural traditions  

  • Touring musicians and unique genres 

Live Local Activation

Use of Funds: Grant funding may not be used for fundraising purposes or to generate profit for any individual organization, charity, or third party. These funds are drawn from the municipal budget and are intended to benefit the broader community and all residents. Any revenue generated through a funded project must be reported in the final grant report. If a surplus or profit is realized, the Municipality reserves the right to request repayment or deduct the amount from future grant allocations.  

To qualify, organizations must be: 

  • Located in Mississippi Mills or deliver programs directly serving its residents  

  • Be in good standing with the municipality (e.g., no overdue reports or funding misuse)  

  • Open to grassroots groups or small businesses partnering with local artists 

  • Applicant does not need to be incorporated 

  • Events must be free or low-cost and hosted in accessible public/semi-public spaces 

  • Event and venue must be inclusive, accessible, and non-discriminatory  

Ineligible Applicants:

  • Applicants profiting privately from the project   
    (unless receiving an honorarium for services)  

  • Political parties or religious organizations promoting specific adherence  

  • Organizations outside Mississippi Mills without a direct local impact  

  • Schools and churches are not eligible (see FAQ)  

  • Fundraising events are not eligible   
    (Any profits must be reported and may affect future funding)  

  • Groups that receive annual funding through the municipal budget process (e.g., museums or organizations with dedicated budget line items)  

  • Sports tournaments must be open to all residents to qualify (see FAQ) 

All forms listed below are required:

Completed application forms can be sent to the Community Services Department for consideration. 

Email: tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca

Drop-off: Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Almonte (a secure drop box is available to the left of the ground-level doors by the parking lot)

Mail:
ATTN: Tiffany MacLaren
Box 400
14 Bridge St
Almonte ON  K0A 1A0

Up to $1,000

Spark Grant

Pilot initiatives, youth-led projects, first-time ideas – Up to $1,000 

Designed to ignite bold new ideas, the Spark Grant empowers emerging initiatives and first-time applicants who seek to enrich community life in fresh and inclusive ways. From youth-led projects to experiments in art, accessibility, or green action, this stream aligns perfectly with priorities around equity, innovation, and grassroots engagement.  

This grant supports Council’s Strategic Plan Principal #1: “Safe and Sustainable” along with Principal # 2 “Welcoming, inclusive, active and healthy community” by encouraging innovative, youth-led, and equity-focused projects that promote environmental action, inclusion, and community engagement. 

  • Youth-led climate action workshops or community art installations 

  • Inclusive wellness pop-ups (e.g., chair yoga, nutrition talks) 

  • Memory cafés or dementia-friendly social events 

  • First-time cultural festivals or heritage storytelling events 

  • Accessibility-focused pop-up events or inclusive sports days 

  • Pilot programs for intergenerational learning or mentorship 

  • Community-led initiatives addressing food insecurity 

  • Training sessions in mental health first aid, or wellness support 

  • Violence prevention programs such as youth mentorship, restorative justice circles, or peer support groups

Spark Grant 

Use of Funds: Grant funding from the Mississippi Mills Community Impact Grant Program may not be used for fundraising purposes or to generate profit for any individual organization, charity, or third party. These funds are drawn from the municipal budget and are intended to benefit the broader community and all residents. Any revenue generated through a funded project must be reported in the final grant report. If a surplus or profit is realized, the Municipality reserves the right to request repayment or deduct the amount from future grant allocations.  

To qualify, organizations must be: 

  • Located in Mississippi Mills or deliver programs directly serving its residents  

  • Demonstrate financial need, community impact, and alignment with municipal priorities  

  • Provide services that are inclusive, accessible, and non-discriminatory  

  • Be in good standing with the municipality (e.g., no overdue reports or funding misuse)  

  • Grants are only intended to support the organization’s other sources of funding. The combined requests to this program (financial and in-kind support) must represent no more than 40% of the program or project budget. This must be clearly outlined in the financials provided. 

  • Applicants can be informal groups or new organizations 

  • First-time applicants strongly encouraged 

  • No prior funding history required  

Ineligible Applicants    

  • Applicants profiting privately from the project   
    (unless receiving an honorarium for services)  

  • For Profit Organizations 

  • Political parties or religious organizations promoting specific adherence  

  • Organizations outside Mississippi Mills without a direct local impact  

  • Schools and churches are not eligible (see FAQ)

  • Fundraising events are not eligible   
    (Any profits must be reported and may affect future funding) 

  • Sports tournaments must be open to all residents to qualify (see FAQ)

  • Organizations that already receive annual funding through the municipal budget process (e.g., museums or organizations with dedicated budget line items)  

All forms listed below are required:

Completed application forms can be sent to the Community Services Department for consideration. 

Email: tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca

Drop-off: Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Almonte (a secure drop box is available to the left of the ground-level doors by the parking lot)

Mail:
ATTN: Tiffany MacLaren
Box 400
14 Bridge St
Almonte ON  K0A 1A0

Up to $2,000

Community Capacity Building Grant

Strengthening the skills, knowledge, and networks of local organizations – Up to $2,000 

The Community Capacity Building stream supports initiatives that enhance the long-term effectiveness and resilience of local non-profits, volunteer groups, and grassroots organizations. This stream funds training, strategic planning, governance development, volunteer recruitment, and other activities that build internal capacity and leadership. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, registered charities, and social enterprises based in Mississippi Mills. Projects must demonstrate a clear benefit to the broader community and align with the municipality’s strategic priorities. Funding of up to $2,000 is available per applicant, with a focus on collaboration, sustainability, and measurable outcomes. 

This stream fits Council’s Strategic Plan Principle #3: “Modern, Efficient and Effective Municipal Operations” by strengthening the skills, leadership, and sustainability of local organizations through training and strategic development. 

  • Governance training for board members 

  • Strategic planning retreats or grant writing workshops 

  • Volunteer recruitment and engagement campaigns 

  • Leadership development for youth or emerging community leaders 

  • Training volunteers in senior mental health or trauma-informed care

Community Capacity Building 

All applicants must meet eligibility requirements for consideration 

Use of Funds: Grant funding from the Mississippi Mills Community Impact Grant Program may not be used for fundraising purposes or to generate profit for any individual organization, charity, or third party. These funds are drawn from the municipal budget and are intended to benefit the broader community and all residents. Any revenue generated through a funded project must be reported in the final grant report. If a surplus or profit is realized, the Municipality reserves the right to request repayment or deduct the amount from future grant allocations.  

General Eligibility:

These partnerships advance the Strategic Plan’s goals of coordinated development and inclusive engagement, supporting all three strategic pillars.  

  • Be a non-profit organization, registered charity, or social enterprise with a clear community benefit 

  • Be in Mississippi Mills or deliver programs directly serving its residents  

  • Demonstrate financial need, community impact, and alignment with municipal priorities  

  • Provide services that are inclusive, accessible, and non-discriminatory  

  • Be in good standing with the municipality (e.g., no overdue reports or funding misuse)  

  • Not receive annual funding through the municipal budget process (e.g., museums or organizations with dedicated budget line items)  

  • Grants are only intended to support the organization’s other sources of funding. The combined requests to this program (financial and in-kind support) must represent no more than 40% of the program or event budget. This must be clearly outlined in the financials provided. 

Adjusted Eligibility for Community Capacity Building Grants: 

  • Unregistered charities or unofficial not for profit organizations are eligible to apply for funding to support incorporation or steps towards formalization. Applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis 

Ineligible Applicants  

  • Applicants profiting privately from the project   
    (unless receiving an honorarium for services)  

  • Political parties or religious organizations promoting specific adherence  

  • Organizations outside Mississippi Mills without a direct local impact  

  • Projects with infrastructure components (except permitted community gardens, little libraries)  

  • Schools and churches are not eligible (see FAQ)  

  • Fundraising events are not eligible   
    (Any profits must be reported and may affect future funding.)  

  • Sports tournaments must be open to all residents to qualify (see FAQ) 

All forms listed below are required:

Completed application forms can be sent to the Community Services Department for consideration. 

Email: tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca

Drop-off: Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Almonte (a secure drop box is available to the left of the ground-level doors by the parking lot)

Mail:
ATTN: Tiffany MacLaren
Box 400
14 Bridge St
Almonte ON  K0A 1A0

Up to $5,000

Impact Grant

Established programs or events with proven community benefit – Up to $5,000 

The Impact Grant stream is designed to support well-established programs and events—such as festivals, and long-standing cultural initiatives—that have a proven track record of enriching community life in Mississippi Mills. These projects already make a meaningful impact, and this funding helps them grow, adapt, and continue delivering value to residents and visitors alike.  

This stream also aligns with several key principles of the Municipality’s 2023–2027 Strategic Plan. It supports Principle #1: Safe and Sustainable by investing in organizations with proven track records and ensuring public resources are directed toward initiatives with demonstrated impact. It advances Principle #2: Welcoming, Inclusive, Active and Healthy Community by encouraging volunteerism, teamwork, and resident participation in meaningful activities. And it contributes to Principle #5: Support a Vibrant and Prosperous Economy by supporting events that promote Mississippi Mills to visitors and future residents—showcasing local culture, attracting tourism, and enhancing the community’s reputation as a dynamic and inviting place to live and explore. 

  • Annual community festivals or fairs 

  • Community theatre productions or music series 

  • Ongoing youth mentorship or seniors’ wellness programs 

  • Environmental education series or community garden         
    expansions  

  • Ongoing seniors’ wellness programs or social clubs 

Impact Grants 

All applicants must meet eligibility requirements to be considered. This stream is closely linked to economic and community development. Projects considered for impact funding should be able to demonstrate past success. Previous financials are required.  

General Eligibility:

These partnerships advance the Strategic Plan’s goals of coordinated development and inclusive engagement, supporting all three strategic pillars.  

  • Be a non-profit organization, registered charity, or social enterprise with a clear community benefit 

  • Be in Mississippi Mills or deliver programs directly serving its residents  

  • Applicants must provide previous year financials and a program budget listing all other sources of funding 

  • Grants are only intended to support the organization’s other sources of funding. The combined requests to this program (financial and in-kind support) must represent no more than 40% of the program or event budget. This must be clearly outlined in the financials provided. 

  • Meet one of the program priorities  

  • Provide services that are inclusive, accessible, and non-discriminatory  

  • Be in good standing with the municipality (e.g., no overdue reports or funding misuse)  

  • Not receive annual funding through the municipal budget process (e.g., museums or organizations with dedicated budget line items)  

  • Grants are only intended to support the organization’s other sources of funding. The combined requests to this program (financial and in-kind support) must represent no more than 40% of the program or event budget. This must be clearly outlined in the financials provided. 

  • Demonstrate Past success including attendance or participation numbers, community engagement, and feedback from previous participants or partners 

  • Demonstrate Economic development impact, such as increased local spending, tourism attraction, support for local businesses, or job creation

Ineligible Applicants (all streams):

  • Applicants profiting directly personally from the project, event or program 

  • Political parties or religious organizations promoting specific adherence  

  • Organizations outside Mississippi Mills without a direct local impact  

  • Projects with infrastructure components 

  • Schools and churches are not eligible (see FAQ)  

  • Fundraising events are not eligible   
    (Any profits must be reported and may affect future funding.)  

  • Sports tournaments must be open to all residents to qualify (see FAQ)  

Use of Funds: Grant funding from the Mississippi Mills Community Impact Grant Program may not be used for fundraising purposes or to generate profit for any individual organization, charity, or third party. These funds are drawn from the municipal budget and are intended to benefit the broader community and all residents. Any revenue generated through a funded project must be reported in the final grant report. If a surplus or profit is realized, the Municipality reserves the right to request repayment or deduct the amount from future grant allocations.  

All forms listed below are required:

Completed application forms can be sent to the Community Services Department for consideration. 

Email: tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca

Drop-off: Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Almonte (a secure drop box is available to the left of the ground-level doors by the parking lot)

Mail:
ATTN: Tiffany MacLaren
Box 400
14 Bridge St
Almonte ON  K0A 1A0

Up to $15,000

Partnership Grant

Longer-term collaborations with the municipality – Up to $15,000/Annually. Council may choose to approve an up to three-year agreement for this category.

Structured for shared ventures between the Municipality and community organizations, this stream invests in long-term collaborations that align with strategic municipal goals. These partnerships advance coordinated efforts around recreation, tourism, inclusion, and environmental resilience.

To support sustainability and encourage deeper impact, Council may choose to award three-year funding agreements under this category. This approach enables applicants to plan and deliver multi-year initiatives, including capital projects, seasonal programming, and strategic collaborations that require longer timelines and stable funding.

This category also allows for infrastructure or capital improvements on publicly accessible recreation parks or facilities located within Mississippi Mills that are not municipally owned but are regularly used by local residents. This flexibility ensures that community assets—regardless of ownership—can be enhanced to better serve public needs.

The Partnership Grant aligns with Council’s Strategic Principle #2: “Welcoming, Inclusive, Active and Healthy Community” by supporting long-term collaborations that deliver inclusive programming, significant events, and tourism initiatives. It also reflects Principle #1: “Safe and Sustainable” through coordinated efforts that build environmental resilience and community capacity, while advancing Principle #4: “Sustainable Financial Stewardship” by leveraging shared resources to expand municipal programming in a cost-effective way that saves staff time and maximizes public benefit.

  • Joint tourism initiatives or seasonal event series 

  • Collaborative programs/ events 

  • Inclusive recreation or arts programming  

  • Mental health awareness campaigns 

  • Capital costs related to a public park or recreation facility  

Partnership Grants 

Applicants must meet eligibility requirements to be considered.      

Eligibility: 

  • Be a non-profit organization, registered charity with a clear community benefit. 

  • Applicants must provide previous year financials and a program budget listing all other sources of funding. 

  • Grants are only intended to support the organization’s other sources of funding. The combined requests to this program (financial and in-kind support) must represent no more than 40% of the program or event budget. This must be clearly outlined in the financials provided. 

  • Be in Mississippi Mills or deliver programs directly serving its residents  

  • Provide services, programs or events that are inclusive, accessible, non-discriminatory and open to all residents 

  • A membership cannot be required for participation in events or programs receiving municipal funding.  Any fees charged must be the same for all participants.   

  • Demonstrate financial need, community impact, and alignment with municipal priorities  

  • Be in good standing with the municipality (e.g., no overdue reports or funding misuse)  

  • Not receive annual funding through the municipal budget process (e.g., museums or organizations with dedicated budget line items)  

Ineligible Applicants:

  • Applicants profiting directly personally from the project   

  • Political parties or religious organizations promoting specific adherence  

  • Organizations outside Mississippi Mills without a direct local impact  

  • Schools and churches are not eligible (see FAQ)  

  • Fundraising events are not eligible (Any/all profits must be reported and may affect future funding.)  

  • Sports tournaments must be open to all residents to qualify (see FAQ)  

Use of Funds: Grant funding from the Mississippi Mills Community Impact Grant Program may not be used for fundraising purposes or to generate profit for any individual organization, charity, or third party. These funds are drawn from the municipal budget and are intended to benefit the broader community and all residents. Any revenue generated through a funded project must be reported in the final grant report. If a surplus or profit is realized, the Municipality reserves the right to request repayment or deduct the amount from future grant allocations.  

All forms listed below are required:

Completed application forms can be sent to the Community Services Department for consideration. 

Email: tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca

Drop-off: Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Almonte (a secure drop box is available to the left of the ground-level doors by the parking lot)

Mail:
ATTN: Tiffany MacLaren
Box 400
14 Bridge St
Almonte ON  K0A 1A0

Up to $2,000 Value

In-Kind Support

Municipal resources such as facilities, equipment, or staff support – Value equivalent - Up to $2,000 

Rather than direct financial grants, this stream provides tangible municipal resources—facilities, equipment, staff support—that enhance project delivery across all categories. It strengthens equity and access by helping groups stretch their budget, while also building closer relationships between the Municipality and its community builders. The AOTH Auditorium Improvement Fee is not eligible as an in-kind request. Ticketed events are never exempt from paying the ticket surcharge. 

The In-Kind Support stream plays a foundational role in the success of the entire Community Impact Grant Program by providing the space, tools, and municipal resources that make community-led initiatives possible. By enabling everything from concerts and clean-ups to workshops and festivals, this stream amplifies the impact of all other grant streams and the principles they support—making it easier for residents and organizations to deliver meaningful, inclusive, and vibrant programming across Mississippi Mills. The formalization of this stream allows municipal staff to strategically allocate resources, track the type and scale of support being provided, and plan more effectively for future community needs. It also ensures the Municipality receives recognition for its ongoing contributions—highlighting the value of public assets and staff support in building a connected, creative, and resilient community. 

  • Use of municipal space for a community art exhibit or cultural celebration 

  • Loan of Municipally owned sound equipment for an outdoor concert  

  • Staff support for a youth leadership summit or seniors’ wellness fair 

  • Access to municipal tools or supplies for a neighbourhood  
    clean-up or planting day 

  • Use of municipally owned event equipment (stage, tents, tables etc.) for community festivals 

In-Kind 

All applicants must meet eligibility to be considered. 

General Eligibility:

  • Be in Mississippi Mills or deliver programs directly serving its residents  

  • Demonstrate financial need, community impact, and alignment with municipal priorities  

  • Provide services that are inclusive, accessible, and non-discriminatory  

  • Be in good standing with the municipality (e.g., no overdue reports or funding misuse)  

  • Grants are only intended to support the organization’s other sources of funding. The combined requests to this program (financial and in-kind support) must represent no more than 40% of the program or event budget. This must be clearly outlined in the financials provided. 

Ineligible Applicants (all streams):  

  • Applicants profiting privately from the project   

  • Political parties or religious organizations promoting specific adherence  

  • Organizations outside Mississippi Mills without a direct local impact  

  • Schools and churches are not eligible for facility discounts but can request use of municipal equipment (see FAQ)  

  • Fundraising events are not eligible   
    (Any profits must be reported and may affect future funding.)  

  • Sports tournaments must be open to all residents to qualify (see FAQ)  

All forms listed below are required:

Completed application forms can be sent to the Community Services Department for consideration. 

Email: tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca

Drop-off: Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St, Almonte (a secure drop box is available to the left of the ground-level doors by the parking lot)

Mail:
ATTN: Tiffany MacLaren
Box 400
14 Bridge St
Almonte ON  K0A 1A0

Need help?

Contact our Community Services department for assistance!

Our staff would be happy to assist you, whether you're unsure which stream you qualify for, or need guidance through the application process.

Before you apply:

  • Choose the funding stream or streams that fit your request
  • Ensure you meet the eligibility (varies per stream)
  • Fill in the required forms (specific to that stream)
  • Gather required support information (where requested)
  • You’re ready to submit (deadline is November 30)

When you need to apply:

The program takes applications in two intakes:

 

Intake 1

Intake 2
Deadline: November 30 (for projects in the following calendar year) March 15 (for projects between April and December of the same year)
Purpose: Supports larger-scale or annual initiatives requiring financial or in-kind support.  Prioritizes smaller, time-sensitive, or emerging initiatives, especially those seeking in-kind or micro-grant support. 
Streams: All streams eligible In-Kind Support, Neighbourhood Micro Grant, Spark Grant, and Live Local Activation (if funds remain)
Decision Provided: Before January 1 of the following year Before May 1

Larger projects are encouraged to apply in Intake 1—funding is limited and may be fully allocated early.

What you need to do if you get a grant:

  • Submit a Grant Report Form within three months of project completion 

  • Include attendance data, outcomes, and promotional materials acknowledging municipal support 

  • Future funding contingent on timely and complete reporting

Important note:  

Final reports must be submitted within three months of project completion. Failure to submit will affect eligibility for future funding.

Reporting form - coming soon Community Impact Grant Policy Program FAQs

Public Information Session

Ask your questions about our new grant program in person!

Attend our Public Information Session to learn about our updated grant program and new funding streams! These sessions will cover everything you need to know — from program updates, who’s eligible to apply, to how the application process works, and what kinds of projects we’re looking to support. We encourage you to ask questions, and explore how this new funding opportunity can help bring your ideas to life.

Session dates:

  • September 24 at 1 p.m.
  • October 15 at 6 p.m.

Almonte Old Town Hall, 14 Bridge St. Almonte, Third Floor

Questions: tmaclaren@mississippimills.ca 

FAQ

Fundraising and Profit Use

A: No. Grant funds may not be used for fundraising purposes or to generate profit for any individual, organization, or third party. These funds are drawn from the municipal budget and are intended to benefit the broader community and all residents. 

A: Any revenue generated must be reported in the final grant report. If a surplus or profit is realized, the Municipality reserves the right to request repayment or deduct the amount from future grant allocations. 

FAQ

Community Safety and Well-Being Alignment

A: While not mandatory, projects that support community safety and well-being—such as mental health, inclusion, violence prevention, or affordability—are strongly encouraged. These priorities reflect the Municipality’s broader commitment to a safe, inclusive, and resilient Mississippi Mills.

For more information, visit our Community Safety and Well-Being page.

FAQ

Use of In-Kind Support

A: In-kind support includes non-monetary contributions from the Municipality such as use of facilities, equipment loans, staff time, or technical assistance. 

A: Yes. Applicants may request both financial and in-kind support but must clearly outline how each will be used in the application. 

FAQ

Repeat Applicants and Annual Events

A: Yes. However, funding is not guaranteed, and each application is assessed independently based on merit, impact, and alignment with program priorities. 

A: Yes, if they demonstrate continued community benefit, innovation, and alignment with the Strategic Plan. Repeat events must show how they are evolving or expanding their impact. 

FAQ

Funding Agreement Length & Duration

A: All grant agreements are for one calendar year. Projects must be completed within the same year the funding is awarded. There is no guarantee of subsequent funding, and applicants must reapply annually.

A: If your project timeline or scope changes, or if you anticipate not being able to use the funding as originally approved, please contact the Municipality as soon as possible. Open communication is important—we’re here to help find a solution where possible. Funds may need to be returned or reallocated. Using funds outside the approved scope or timeline without prior municipal approval may result in and could affect your eligibility for future funding.

A: Only projects funded under the Partnership Grant stream may be considered for three-year agreements, at Council’s discretion. This option is intended to support longer-term initiatives, capital improvements, or strategic collaborations that require sustained funding and planning. 

A: Yes. However, each application is assessed independently based on merit, impact, and alignment with program priorities. There is no automatic renewal or rollover of funding.

FAQ

Honorariums and Artist Fees

A: Yes. Paying artists for their work is supported and encouraged. Reasonable honorariums or fees for artists, facilitators, or speakers are eligible expenses, provided they are clearly outlined in the budget and support the project’s goals.  

FAQ

Insurance and Permits

A: Depending on the nature and location of your event, insurance or municipal permits may be required. Applicants are responsible for securing necessary approvals and should consult with municipal staff during planning. 

FAQ

Second Intake Eligibility for Previous Applicants

A: Yes—but only in the In-Kind Category for event equipment. Groups that submitted an application during the first intake are not eligible to request additional funding or facility rental costs in the second intake.

A: Absolutely! If your group submitted an in-kind request in the first intake, you may update or adjust that request during the second intake if needed. This allows for flexibility in planning and ensures your event equipment needs are met. 

A: No. If your group already applied or was awarded funding or facility rental support in the first intake, you cannot request additional financial support or facility costs in the second intake.

FAQ

Multi-Stream Applications

A: Yes. Applicants may apply to multiple streams if the projects are distinct and meet the criteria for each stream. Separate applications must be submitted for each stream. 

FAQ

Reporting Requirements for Micro Grants

A: No. A simplified reporting form is available for Micro Grant recipients. It focuses on basic outcomes. This ensures accountability while keeping the process accessible for residents. 

FAQ

Special One-Time Funding

A: Special One-Time Funding refers to discretionary financial support provided by Council for unique projects that fall outside the standard parameters and/or intake schedule of the Community Impact Grant Program. These are typically initiatives with exceptional community value, urgent timing, or strategic alignment that do not fit within existing  
grant streams.

FAQ

Eligibility of Schools and Churches

A: Schools and churches are not eligible to apply for funding under this program. However, they are invited to apply under the In-Kind Stream for discounted facility rentals and/or event equipment use—providing the event is open to the entire community. These grants are intended to support inclusive, community-based initiatives that welcome all residents.

A: Yes, if the lead applicant is an eligible community organization and the project serves the broader public without religious or institutional restrictions.

Note: Schools may be eligible for free facility rentals through the Community Use of Schools reciprocal agreement, pending availability. This is a separate arrangement from the Community Impact Grant and is managed in partnership with local school boards. 

FAQ

Sports-Related Events Eligibility

A: No. Regular annual sports club events, league competitions, or tournaments organized by established sports & membership-based organizations are not eligible for funding.

A: Only inclusive, one-time sport-centered events that are open to all residents may qualify. These events must be designed to foster community connection and participation. 
 
Examples of Eligible Sport-Centered Events: 
• Community-wide cornhole tournaments 
• Open 3-on-3 basketball events 
• Public pickleball or disc golf days 
• Inclusive sports try-it days or multi-sport festivals 
 
These events must be free or low-cost to attend and inclusive of all ages and abilities.

FAQ

Application Support & Assistance

A: Yes. Applicants can contact the Mississippi Mills Community Services Department for guidance.  

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