We aim to incentivize and support students’ interest and care for their communities. This will enable students to create change by:

  • Promoting their efforts in schools across the district
  • Connecting them with partners who align with their work
  • Providing them with the platform to share their initiatives and offer input about their education

Program to Invest in Student-Led Initiatives

We will create a program led by designated staff to support student initiatives. This will provide easier access for students to the WRDSB. It will also support student-led initiatives that are being developed or already in progress. Based on their needs, we can support them with resources or promotions through WRDSB platforms.

This strategy intends to encourage students to invest in their communities. It also aligns their educational experiences with Learner Profile attributes.

Grants and Funding for Student-Led Initiatives

We are working to support the next generation of leaders by connecting them to funding to make their projects a reality. Below, you’ll find grants tailored specifically for youth in Waterloo region. These grants are designed to support creative, innovative, and equity-focused projects.

If you need help with your project or applying for grants listed below, email Delia Loveless, Student Engagement Officer, at delia_loveless@wrdsb.ca.

CANConnect Micro-grant

Through the CANConnect program, GLOCAL Foundation of Canada aims to empower Canadian youth. The program focuses on equipping participants with the resources, civic knowledge and digital skills to promote civic engagement and democratic participation in Canada through project-based initiatives.

160 microgrants are available to Canadian youth applicants from across Canada. These microgrants serve as a means to empower youth and enable them to actively engage in civic activities that positively contribute to their communities.

Learn more about the CANConnect program and how you can apply.

 

Love My Hood via the City of Kitchener

Love My Hood fosters vibrant and connected neighbourhoods in Kitchener.

The LoveMyHood Matching Grant Selection Committee reviews applications during seasonal review periods. Submissions are due on the following dates:

Winter Review Period – Thursday, March 14, 2024
Spring Review Period – Thursday, May 16, 2024
Summer Review Period – Thursday, August 15, 2024
Fall Review Period – Thursday, November 14, 2024

Learn more about the Love My Hood grant.

N:OW for Net-Zero program

N:OW for Net-Zero funds Canadian student projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and/or improve net-zero literacy in their communities.

Grades 6-12 students can apply and may receive up to $15,000 in funding for their projects.

Applications are open until Thursday, September 12, 2024.

Learn more about the N:OW for Net-Zero program.

Ontario Summer Company Program

The Government of Ontario’s Summer Company program provides students aged 15 to 29 with the training and grants they need to launch and run their own summer businesses.

Successful applicants get:

  • up to $1,500 upfront to help with start-up costs
  • up to $1,500 when you successfully complete the program requirements

The program for 2024 is open through May 17, 2024.

Learn more about the Ontario Summer Company program.

Peace Innovators Scholarship

The Peace Innovators Scholarship provides scholarships to students committed to creating a more peaceful world.

Learn more about the Peace Innovators Scholarship.

RISE Fund: Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Equity

The RISE Fund supports initiatives that address equity, diversity, and inclusion in Kitchener. Applications are open until May 2, 2024.

Learn more about the RISE Fund.

Smart Waterloo Region Innovation Lab (SWRIL)

SWIRL provides funding for students to turn their ideas and sustainable solutions to improve their community into reality.

Learn about the Smart Waterloo Region Innovation Lab.

Youth Climate Action Fund

GreenHouse has partnered with the City of Kitchener to deliver Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Youth Climate Action Fund. This fund provides $68,000 in micro-grants for youth-led climate projects in Kitchener.

Projects supported include:

  • tree-planting
  • public education campaigns
  • recycling or waste reduction initiatives
  • climate change mitigation planning or preparedness programs

Support is available for youth to develop their applications and determine the best pathways to making climate action in our community. Upcoming How to Apply Virtual Workshops:

  • June 13th, online, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • July 3, 4:30-6:00 p.m. (in person, Kitchener City Hall)
  • July 24, 4:30-6:00 p.m. (in person, Kitchener City Hall)

Learn more about the Youth Climate Action Fund.

Youth Creativity Fund

The Youth Creativity Fund aims to fuel the creativity of youth. It does so by funding art, community, and tech projects. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis.

Learn more about the Youth Creativity Fund.