Information for applicants: ORGANIZATIONS

how to apply for funding

Applications for funding for organizations open in the fall of each year, typically late October or early November. Deadlines for applications will be published in our weekly e-news. It is highly recommended that your organization join as a member or subscriber so that you do not miss the deadlines.

New Applicants:

If this is your first time applying for funding from this program, or if you have not applied in the previous year(s), please review the eligibility criteria before applying. If you have questions about whether or not your organization should apply, email Bernadette Ward at bernadette@oakvillearts.com or call (844) 625-2787.

You can view the PPT presentation from 2025 here: 2025 POWERPOINT PRESENTATION 

Returning Grantees:

Organizations that received funding in the previous year must complete a Final Report in order to qualify for funding for the coming year. For example, if you received funding in 2025 you must submit a Final Report prior to applying for 2026 funding. Failure to submit the report makes your organization ineligible for funding.

Once your report is submitted, you will receive confirmation via email and the application will be made available to you in the AMS/OAC grant portal. Please ensure the information in the grant portal is up-to-date. The application deadline for 2025 funding will be in late fall of 2024.

Application Process

1. Become a subscriber or member of the OAC to ensure you receive information about the grants deadlines.
   
2. Attend the annual information session which is usually held in June.
3. Review the eligibility criteria.
4. Create an account in the grants portal at oac.amsnetwork.ca. Be sure to fill out as much information as possible including social media links and website information.
5. When the grant application becomes available, complete the application. 
6. Ensure that ALL requested documentation is submitted by the deadline. Failure to provide requested information will result in a declined application.

Important Dates/Deadlines

1. June: Grants Info Session
2. September: Final Reports
3. October: Application Deadline
4. February/March: Grant Letters 
5. March: Return of Signed Contracts
6. March: Release of Grant Cheques

If you would like a brief tutorial to help with navigating the application portal, please view the video at the link below:

Grant Portal Tutorial