Kawartha Lakes invites local non-profits to apply for economic development support

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Local non-profit organizations have new opportunities for support, as Kawartha Lakes announces the opening of its 2026 intake for Economic Development Funds. Applications officially opened, on Friday, November 21st, with three programs available, to help strengthen community-based economic and cultural initiatives.

This year brings a significant update with the launch of a new cultural project-based program. The Cultural Development Fund, replaces the previous Community Partnership and Development Fund Culture Fund, and, is designed to support cultural non-profits delivering public programming, across Kawartha Lakes.

“This new fund is designed to meet the developing needs of our cultural sector,” said, Economic Development Manager, Rebecca Mustard. “We heard from local organizations, project-based support would allow them to be more creative and more responsive to community needs, and this fund delivers exactly that.”

Alongside the new fund, the municipality is reopening two established programs for 2026: the Local Economic Development Support Grant which assists non-profit organizations, with operational costs tied to community economic development work, and the Cultural Facilities Operational Support Grant which helps cultural organizations, operating facilities such as: museums, galleries, and performance venues, manage operating costs and maintain vital community spaces.

Eligible organizations can apply for up to 25 percent of their fixed costs, to a maximum of $20,000, with funding supporting operational expenses, within the 2026 calendar year. Projects and proposals should align with municipal priorities, outlined in documents, such as, the Kawartha Lakes Strategic Plan, Economic Development Strategy, and Cultural Master Plan.

Ms. Mustard emphasized, the City’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the creative and economic landscape. “Our non-profit partners play a critical role in shaping vibrant, resilient communities. These funding programs ensure they have the support they need, to continue offering high-quality services and experiences, for residents and visitors.”

Applications close January 15th, 2026. Organizations can find full details and submit applications online, through the municipality’s grant portal.