Ontario Community Changemakers Program 2025-2026

The Ontario Community Changemakers Program is a multi-generational leadership and micro-grant initiative by 8 80 Cities to activate public space, enhance civic engagement, and foster social inclusion in Ontario communities. The 2025 program runs from October 2025 to September 2026, with 12 months for project implementation and a combination of funding, leadership training, and mentorship for selected changemakers. Thirty participants will each receive a grant of $5,000, plus ongoing coaching and in-person studio and workshops in Toronto.

Grant funding of $5,000, leadership training, ongoing mentorship, virtual coaching, and access to a network of public space experts.

Applicants must be 19 years or older at the time of application and must reside in Ontario during the project implementation; the project must take place in Ontario or a First Nations Territory within Ontario.

Submit an application by the stated deadline via the program's apply page.