Foundation grants for environmental projects in Ontario, 2026–27

Environmental funders often have strict rules on research, travel and geography. Here's what's open or coming up, with each funder's rules as published. Checked 22 October 2026. Confirm on each funder's page before applying.

TD Friends of the Environment Foundation

(national, including Ontario)

• Timing: Winter deadline December 15, 2026, with decisions in April. Summer deadline June 15, with decisions in October.
• Amounts: No set minimum or maximum. Most grants are $2,000 to $8,000.
• Fit: Environmental education, green space, community gardens and citizen science.
• Watch out: Excludes research projects, travel, capital and infrastructure, admin and operating costs, and projects already underway.
• Source: td.com (TD FEF grant page)

Ottawa Community Foundation, Community Initiative Grants

(Ottawa)

• Timing: The 2026 round has closed. It reopens in early 2027, date not yet announced.
• Amounts: Up to $25,000. Most grants are $15,000 to $20,000.
• Fit: Environment is one of its focus areas, for projects serving Ottawa residents.
• Source: ocf-fco.ca/grant-programs

Greenbelt Foundation

(Ontario Greenbelt)

• Timing: No call open now. The next call is expected in early 2027.
• Fit: Projects that protect and strengthen Ontario's Greenbelt: natural and agricultural heritage, access to greenspace, growth and climate solutions.
• Watch out: Its focus is the Ontario Greenbelt around the Greater Golden Horseshoe. That isn't the same as a city "greenbelt" elsewhere, such as Ottawa's.
• Source: greenbelt.ca/grants

Echo Foundation

(Ontario, Québec and Atlantic Canada)

• Timing: Letters of inquiry, no published deadline.
• Fit: Top priority is protecting ecologically important natural areas. Other sustainable environmental projects are considered case by case.
• Watch out: A full inquiry needs your three most recent annual reports and financial statements, a detailed budget and a list of other funders.
• Source: fondationecho.ca

Ontario Trillium Foundation

(Ontario government agency)

• Timing: Grow applications close November 4, 2026 at 5 p.m. ET; the 2026 Seed round is closed.
• Source: otf.ca (grant application deadlines)

The pattern to notice

"Citizen science" and "research" are treated very differently. Describe public education and participation honestly, and keep research, travel and equipment purchases separate in your budget.