Apply for funding
Applications are open to any registered charity or qualified donee located and operating in Waterloo Region.
- There are two streams of funding within the General Community Fund (GCF). Please see details below and in the Application Guides provided.
- Maximum amount per grant is $50,000
Funding allocated needs to be spent within one year of allocation date.
GCF Application opportunities occur on a quarterly basis. We recognize that agency needs extend beyond three months. For that reason, an agency is able have the same application considered in the next funding period, providing updated information as necessary (e.g. budget, emerging needs). For more information on when and how to do this, please speak with United Way Community Investment staff.
General Community funD
Q4 Funding (Starting January 1st, 2024)
Applications open: September 25th – October 13th, 2023
Decisions Communicated: November 13th – November 17th, 2023
Reporting on the impact of successful grant applications is required every 6 months:
- Funding granted Apr-Jun and Jul-Sept 2023 reports: Oct 24th – Nov 14th
General Operating Support (GOS)
These grants are intended to support an organization’s ability to achieve its mission overall. This type of grant is flexible and allows grantees to allocate funds towards self-identified organizational priorities in order to develop and strengthen their internal systems.
Program/Project Grants
These grants support specific programs or projects of an organization. This type of grant allows grantees to focus on specific aspects of their work. Programs/projects can be new or existing.
For more information or questions, please reach out to us!

Funded Partners
At United Way we fund a network of community partners helping people meet their basic needs, access mental health supports, and reduce social isolation.
Get Involved
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