Neighbourhood Small Grants (NSG) is based on a simple but powerful idea: when people feel a sense of connection and belonging in their neighbourhood, they are more likely to be engaged in activities that make it a better place to live.
When people participate actively in the life of their neighbourhoods, our Island communities are strengthened from the ground up. NSG was initially started by the Vancouver Foundation in the Metro Vancouver area more than two decades ago, but more recently NSG has expanded its reach to various communities across Vancouver Island and other parts of B.C.!
Today, 12 Island communities are spreading joy through inspiring initiatives.
In 2023, we supported 247 unique neighbourhood projects across the Island, with more than $100,000 in funding! With most communities hosting two grant cycles annually, during spring and fall, Islanders from all walks of life have spearheaded remarkably innovative projects.
Here are the 2024 NSG Island Network spring cycle grant dates:
- Ahousaht: March 15 – April 30
- Campbell River: March 1 – April 15
- Clayoquot Sound: March 15 – April 30
- Comox Valley: March 1 – April 15
- Cortes Island: March 15 – April 15
- Nanaimo: March 1 – April 15
- North Island-Mt. Waddington: March 15 – April 30
- Parksville-Qualicum: March 1 – March 31
- Quadra Island: Fall 2024
- Salt Spring Island: March 1 – April 15
- Victoria: March 8 – April 19
- All other Vancouver Island Communities: Fall 2024
Ready to turn your idea into reality? Your local community coordinators are here to help! Go to www.neighbourhoodsmallgrants.ca to find your community page along with your coordinator’s contact details. You can also follow the prompts on the website and begin working on your application straight away.
Don’t worry! The application process is very simple, accessible, available in multiple languages, and should not take more than half an hour. Paper copies are also available from your coordinator if that is more convenient for you. We look forward to seeing your project ideas!
Not ready to pitch your idea yet? We encourage you to revisit our website in the fall and submit your application at that time.