Community Foundation of Portage Offers $222,000 in Grants

Local community groups and non-profit organizations have a limited opportunity to apply for over $222,000 in funding through the Community Foundation of Portage and District (CFPD). Applications for the 2026 Spring Community Grants program must be submitted by the deadline of March 15, 2026. This funding round includes an additional $22,264 provided by the Thomas Sill Manitoba Fund, which honors the legacy of philanthropist Thomas Sill.

The Thomas Sill Manitoba Fund was established in 1986 and continued to support local initiatives until its closure in 2023. Following this closure, its assets were transferred to the Winnipeg Foundation, ensuring ongoing financial support for community foundations across Manitoba.

Lorna Knight, executive director of the CFPD, is urging both new and returning applicants to take advantage of this funding opportunity. She emphasized that organizations previously unsuccessful in the fall 2025 funding cycle are encouraged to reapply. “There were a number of organizations who applied in the fall of 2025 who were not successful, and we want to remind applicants that they can reapply again for this intake,” Knight stated.

Knight also encouraged groups to consider upcoming projects they may wish to initiate in the next six months. The foundation typically supports a wide range of initiatives but prioritizes projects that address critical areas identified in the 2023 Community Assessment. These areas include mental health, housing, childcare, poverty, and crime and safety.

The CFPD’s bi-annual grant program has a proven track record of making a local impact. In the October 2025 intake, over $206,000 was distributed among 13 different community groups, showcasing the foundation’s commitment to enhancing community welfare.

Recognizing that the grant application process can be daunting for newcomers, Knight encouraged potential applicants to seek assistance. “If groups or organizations are unsure if they are able to apply, want help with the application, or simply want to chat about the project, reach out to our office,” she advised.

Applications can be submitted online at www.cfpdi.ca/grants. Interested organizations can also visit the CFPD office located at 206 Saskatchewan Avenue East or contact staff at 204-856-1971 for more information. The CFPD remains dedicated to fostering community development and invites all eligible groups to take this opportunity to secure funding for their initiatives.