Ontario’s Seniors Community Grants Program for 2026–27 is now open, offering up to $25,000 per project to help organizations run activities that keep adults 55+ active, socially connected, and safe in their communities. Applications must be submitted online by December 18, 2025, at 5 p.m. Eastern Time through the province’s Transfer Payment Ontario (TPON) system.
Program basics
The Seniors Community Grant (SCG) Program funds local projects that reduce social isolation, support independence, and improve the well‑being of older adults in Ontario. Programs can be in‑person, virtual, or hybrid, and must clearly involve and benefit people aged 55 or older.
For 2026–27 there is also a dedicated stream for projects that specifically support senior veterans, reflecting a new focus on improving quality of life for former Canadian Armed Forces members. Approved projects are expected to start by June 2026 and must be completed by March 31, 2027.
Who can apply and how much you can get
Three types of applicants are eligible, each with different maximum funding levels.
| Applicant type | Maximum grant per project | Key notes |
|---|---|---|
| Incorporated not‑for‑profit organizations, municipalities, Indigenous governing bodies | Up to $25,000 | Must provide Certificate of Insurance |
| Individuals representing unincorporated community seniors’ groups | Up to $10,000 | No insurance certificate required, but must represent a local seniors’ group |
| All applicants (general rule) | Minimum $1,000 | Projects must align with program priorities |
All applicants must enroll in the TPON system before applying, and enrollment alone can take up to two weeks, so organizations are urged to start that step immediately.
Application deadlines and process
Applications and all mandatory supporting documents must be submitted through TPON by Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted, and there is no formal appeals process once funding decisions are made.
The program is competitive: in the 2025–26 cycle only about 32% of applications were approved, so clear project plans, realistic budgets, and strong letters of support are strongly recommended. The ministry is offering four webinars during the application window to explain eligibility, priorities, and how to complete the forms.
What kinds of projects are favoured
Priority is given to projects that:
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Promote physical and social activities (for example, exercise classes, social clubs, cultural or nature outings).
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Address isolation, support underserved groups (such as rural, low‑income, Francophone, newcomer, or Indigenous seniors), or improve digital literacy and access.
Assessors score applications on project quality and relevance, impact and inclusion, budget and value for money, and organizational capacity. Local, not‑for‑profit organizations that meet specific community needs and groups that have not received SCG funding in the past two years may receive extra consideration.
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Practical tips for a strong application
Guidelines stress the importance of starting early, building a detailed and realistic budget, and clearly explaining how the project will be delivered and who will do what. Letters of support from community partners help show the need for the project and can strengthen your case.
If you are unsure whether your idea fits, the ministry encourages you to contact a Regional Development Advisor and to carefully review the 2026–27 SCG Program Guidelines PDF before applying.
