1. Type of Organization: Eligible organizations must be registered charities or non-profits organizations in Canada with an annual operating budget of less than 2.5 million dollars. These organizations must be dedicated to serving the public good and advancing societal well-being.
2. Geographical Location: Applicant organizations and their charitable events must be situated and actively operating within the Niagara Region or Haldimand County. (See map below)
   
3. Nature of Events: We welcome applications for events such as trade shows, charity events, fundraisers, and other similar event initiatives. Please note, however, that funding for capital assets (e.g., land, property, equipment) is not within the scope of this program.
4. Alignment with Program Focus Areas (Core Pillars): To ensure that funding is directed toward initiatives that produce measurable and meaningful community impact, all applicants must demonstrate alignment with one or more of the programs Core Pillars outlined below. Applicants that do not clearly align with at least one pillar will not be considered for funding.
   A) Environment & Sustainability: Initiatives that support environmental stewardship, conservation, sustainable practices, and the enhancement and protection of natural spaces.
   B) Literacy & Education: Initiatives that improve access to learning, strengthen educational outcomes, build essential skills, or promote literacy across multiple age groups.
   C) Health & Wellbeing: Initiatives that contribute to the physical, mental, or social well-being of community members, including initiatives that promote safety, recreation, and healthy living.
   D) Community & Growth: Initiatives that strengthen community connection, cultural inclusivity, local heritage, or support the long-term vitality and resilience of Niagara and Haldimand communities.
5. Proven Effectiveness: Organizations should have a demonstrable history of successfully implementing programs and delivering services that positively impact the community.
6. Community Contribution: Applicants must clearly illustrate how their project will foster more livable, workable, and sustainable communities, in line with BCM’s dedication to societal betterment.
7. Financial Need and Utilization: There should be a transparent and compelling justification for the financial support requested, along with a detailed plan for the fund’s utilization.
8. Application Opportunity for Past Recipients: While organizations that have previously received grants are welcome to reapply, priority is given to new applicants to broaden our community impact.
9. Reporting and Accountability: Grant recipients are required to agree to provide thorough and timely reports on both the allocation of the funds and the impact achieved by the project.
10. Timely Fund Utilization: All granted funds must be allocated and utilized within the same calendar year of receipt, ensuring prompt and effective community benefit.

These criteria are designed to ensure that BCM’s community grants are awarded to impactful, well-managed projects that align with our values and goals, ultimately contributing to a thriving and vibrant local community.

Grant applications are reviewed by the BCM Community Grant Committee. It is this committee who has the final decision of the chosen organizations. Based on the volume of submissions, it is not guaranteed that all applicants will receive grant dollars.