Local Economic Development Support Grant

Funding available

Application intake closed. 

The fund has a total of $100,000 available in 2025. Applicants can request up to 25% of the organization’s eligible fixed costs up to a maximum of $20,000, whichever comes first.

Program goals

The Local Economic Development Support Grant provides operational funding to non-profit organizations within the City of Kawartha Lakes, emphasizing the significance of hyper-local, place-based initiatives. These initiatives play a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community pride, contributing to the overall economic development of individual communities.

Eligible organizations include those that undertake initiatives that address the strategic priorities within the City of Kawartha Lakes Strategic Plan, Economic Development Strategy and other associated plans and policies.

While supporting the operational costs of the organizations, the program will also help to solidify partnerships with not-for-profit organizations for the betterment of the economic vibrancy of the City, supporting their contribution to the community while ensuring the organizations retain their independence.

Program timelines

Application process

Organizations are limited to one funding request per calendar year.

• Applications must be submitted on or before the application deadline. Late applications will not be considered.
• Must demonstrate alignment with the City of Kawartha Lakes Strategic Plan, Economic Development Strategy or related municipal priorities.
• Clearly demonstrate the organizations mandate and initiatives that support local economic development.
• Provide required documentation including:
  • Previous year audited or approved financial statements (profit & loss statements are acceptable if audited financial statements are unavailable)
  • Current year organization budget
  • Organization’s Board or Council motion that confirms support of the funding request
  • Letters or emails that confirm partnerships outlined in the application.
  • Proof of legal status (letters patent/incorporation documents, constitution or bylaws)

There is a 10% holdback in funding. The first 90% of the approved funding is dispersed upon the project approval. The remaining 10% is dispersed upon approval of your final report.

Program administration

The Kawartha Lakes Economic Development Division administers the Local Economic Development Support Grant as per the Economic Development Fund Policy.

An internal review committee reviews applications and are approved by the Director of Development Services.  Successful applicants are announced through a news release and posted on the municipal website.

2025 Recipients

• Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce
• Coboconk Chamber of Commerce
• Environmental Action Bobcaygeon
• Fenelon Chamber of Commerce 
• Kawartha Works Community Co-op
• Lindsay Downtown BIA
• Lindsay Chamber of Commerce