Community Grant Program

Eligible projects must be new initiatives and may focus on one or more of the following areas:

• Arts and culture
• Community engagement and local events
• Destination tourism events
• Environmental stewardship and sustainability
• Emergency preparedness and community resilience
• Place-based education
• Youth development and inclusion
• Health and wellness
• Reconciliation, diversity, and accessibility

Projects should demonstrate clear community benefit and align with District priorities.

You may be eligible to apply if you are:

• A community-based, non-profit organization, incorporated society, or registered charity, or
• A volunteer or unincorporated group with an eligible fiscal sponsor

Projects must primarily benefit Sooke residents and take place within District boundaries.

• Maximum financial grant: Up to $5,000 per organization per year
• In-kind support (subject to operational capacity):
  • Access to municipal parks or facilities
  • Associated permits
  • District-owned equipment
  • Limited event support
• Overtime and additional staffing costs are not eligible as in-kind support.
• Total funding available is determined annually through the District’s budget process.

Community grants cannot be used for:

• For-profit businesses
• Political or religious advocacy
• Core operating or ongoing costs (such as rent, wages, or administrative expenses)

• Key Dates:
  • Applications open: March 1
  • Application deadline: April 8
• Applications must be submitted online and completed in full by the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Successful applicants will be notified following Council approval.

Applications are reviewed by District staff using Council-approved criteria and referred to Council for final approval.

Evaluation considers factors such as:

• Alignment with District priorities
• Community benefit, inclusion, and accessibility
• Innovation and creativity
• Environmental, social, or emergency preparedness value
• Feasibility and organizational capacity
• Collaboration and partnerships
• Financial need and budget clarity

Grant recipients must submit a brief final report within 60 days of completing their project. The report outlines:

• Project outcomes and participation
• Community impact
• How grant funds were used

Failure to submit a report may affect eligibility for future grants.

All recipients must acknowledge the District of Sooke’s support. Depending on the project, this may include:

• Displaying the District logo on promotional materials
• Acknowledging the District on social media or event announcements
• Verbal recognition at events, where appropriate