RISE Fund: Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Equity

The Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Equity (RISE) Fund is a community grant that provides support for community-led organizations, programs, initiatives or events meant to decrease inequities and increase opportunities and well-being for Black, Indigenous and racialized communities in Kitchener.

On this page:

  1. Categories and grant amounts
  2. Eligibility
  3. Apply for the RISE Fund
  4. Upcoming information events
  5. Staff contacts
  6. Assessment process
  7. Grant agreements
  8. Accessibility and translation
  9. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
  10. Grant writing and application tips and tricks
  11. RISE Fund recipients

Categories and grant amounts

The RISE Fund has an annual budget of $150,000, with one intake period. Funding is awarded within the following maximums and minimums:

  • maximum annual grant amount for groups/organizations: $10,000
  • minimum annual grant amount for groups/organizations: $1,000
  • maximum for events: $5,000

Groups are eligible for funding within these categories:

Event funding: an event organized by the group or organization, or a series of small events over time (maximum $5,000)


Eligible expenses include but are not limited to:

  • Event staffing, speakers or facilitation

  • Accessibility supports such as ASL or captioning

  • Venue or equipment rental, such as AV equipment

  • Communications and outreach such as posters, flyers or digital advertising specific to the event

  • Supplies and materials directly linked to the event

  • Light snacks or refreshments for attendees


Ineligible expenses include but are not limited to:

  • Ticketed events intended for profit

  • The purchase of permanent large equipment such as AV equipment

  • Facility renovations or improvements

  • Core operations costs and expenses unrelated to the planning or delivery of the event

Project and/or program funding: projects organized by the group or organization 

Eligible expenses include but are not limited to:

  • Staff and personnel costs such as salaries or honorariums for project coordinators or guest speakers 
  • Supplies and materials directly linked to the project or program
  • Venue and equipment rental costs for program delivery
  • Accessibility and interpretation supports
  • Communications and outreach costs, such as the design and printing of posters, flyers or digital media 


Ineligible expenses include but are not limited to:

  • Core operations costs
  • Capital costs such as renovations, construction, or the purchase of land, buildings, vehicles or large equipment
  • Unrelated expenses that are not directly connected to the project or program, such as professional development 

We will consider other requests as long as they still fall within the broader criteria of the grant.

If you are uncertain about the eligibility of an expense, we encourage you to reach out to staff for clarification.

Eligibility

This grant is open to informal not-for-profit organizations or community groups in Kitchener. The group/organization can be newly formed for the purpose of a specific project or is a pre-existing group undertaking a project.

While all community groups and not-for-profit organizations are eligible to apply, we will prioritize funding for newly emerging groups and organizations operating for five years or less, or Indigenous groups and organizations.

To be eligible for funding, applicants must meet and demonstrate the following application criteria:

  • the group or organization is led by leaders who identify as Black, Indigenous and/or racialized
  • the group or organization serves Black, Indigenous and/or racialized individuals and/or groups in Kitchener
  • the group or organization clearly demonstrates their contribution to one or several of the following:
    • reducing inequities by addressing systemic barriers and promoting equity-based approaches
    • increasing opportunities for participation, connection, and access to resources
    • enhancing the well-being of Black, Indigenous and other racialized community members in Kitchener
    • the project or event takes place in the City of Kitchener and clearly demonstrates how it benefits Kitchener residents
    • the group or organization can demonstrate through a budget how they propose to use the funds
    • the group or organization agrees to report back upon completion of the project or event, including accountability of all revenues, expenses and proof of purchases
    • the group or organization agrees to complete an evaluation following the conclusion of the project or event
    • the group or organization recognizes the City’s contribution in any promotional literature (i.e. posters, social media, website) 

Staff will review applications as they are received to confirm that eligibility requirements are met. Only applications that meet all criteria will move forward in the selection process.

We will not provide grant funding, financial support or any other financial or in-kind contribution to any person, including any individual, body, business, or entity, that hosts, arranges, contributes to or promotes Conversion Practices. Learn more about this policy on LaserFiche.

 

Apply for the RISE Fund

Applications for the 2026 funding cycle will be accepted beginning on August 14, 2026.
Please stay connected with us on social media and check back for updates to our RISE Fund web page to learn more about the next round of funding. 

Staff contacts

If you have questions about the grant criteria, eligibility, or potential alignment of your project, group or event with the objectives of the RISE Fund, please email redi@kitchener.ca.

If you have questions about the grant process or completing the application form, please email Amanda Drumond.

Assessment process

The City of Kitchener Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council (REDIAC) is the selection committee for this grant. This committee includes 10 community members representing voices who have been historically underrepresented or excluded, specifically those who are Black, Indigenous, racialized, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, persons with disabilities, religious minorities, and the intersections of these identities.

Applicants are encouraged to provide detailed information about the established criteria, such as community needs, impact, measurable outcomes, feasibility, creativity, sustainability and budget clarity. Proposals will be evaluated solely based on the information submitted on the application.

Staff provide facilitative and administrative support. City staff do not have voting privileges in the grant selection. 

Grant agreements

All RISE Fund recipients are required to sign a contract with the City of Kitchener, outlining the terms of the agreement per the regulations set by the City Solicitor.

A final financial report must be submitted within 9 months of receiving the City-issued cheque, unless an alternative timeline has been discussed and approved. During this period, the City may also request a status update on the funded initiative. 

Accessibility and translation

We are committed to helping with all accessibility requests, including language translation. Applications may be submitted in languages other than English, and translation or interpretation services will be provided upon request. Paper versions of the application are also available upon request for pick-up at any of our community centres or City Hall.

 If you have any accessibility requirements, please email Amanda Drumond.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Yes, you may apply. However, your application must clearly demonstrate how your project will directly benefit Kitchener residents, particularly Black, Indigenous and racialized communities. While organizations outside Kitchener are eligible, priority may be given to those based in and connected to Kitchener. 

Applicants are typically notified within 8 to 12 weeks after the application deadline. During this time, City staff may contact you for clarification or additional information. All applicants will receive an outcome notification, regardless of the decision. 

No, only one application per group or organization will be accepted per funding cycle. We encourage you to prioritize your strongest project. 

  • Projects or initiatives not led by individuals who identify as Black, Indigenous or racialized
  • Projects that do not primarily benefit or serve Black, Indigenous or racialized communities
  • For-profit organizations, businesses, ventures or enterprises that generate an income
  • Projects that do not directly serve or impact Kitchener and its residents
  • Applications led by individuals without demonstrated community or organizational support
  • Activities that violate the Ontario Human Rights Code or Canadian Charter rights and freedoms 
  • Activities and organizations involved in or promoting conversion practices 

All applications are reviewed through a transparent, community-informed multi-step process to ensure fairness and alignment with the goals of the RISE Fund. 

The selection process typically involves the following steps:

  1. Eligibility Review:
    City staff review all submissions to confirm they meet the basic eligibility requirements, including alignment with the grant’s criteria, completion of the application, and required documentation. Staff will follow up with applicants if submissions are incomplete and clarify when eligibility requirements are unclear.

  2. Evaluation by a Selection Committee:
    Eligible applications are reviewed and evaluated by a resident selection committee composed of members of the City’s Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee. The committee members bring a wide range of lived and professional experiences, and are deeply committed to supporting community initiatives. Each application is evaluated individually and collectively, based on the eligibility and established criteria such as community impact, measurable outcomes, feasibility, creativity, sustainability and budget clarity.

  3. Funding Recommendations:
    Based on the Selection Committee’s evaluations and the available budget, funding recommendations are made. In some cases, the panel may recommend partial funding or request clarification before making a final decision.

  4. Approval and Notification:
    Final funding decisions are approved by the City. All applicants, successful and unsuccessful, will be notified of the outcome by email, typically within 8 to 12 weeks of the application deadline.

  5. Agreements and Reporting:
    Successful applicants will be required to sign a funding agreement and agree to any reporting or evaluation requirements.

 

Yes, some applications may be approved for partial funding depending on the evaluation process and the total available budget.

Funded projects must begin after funding has been approved and a funding agreement has been signed. Expenses incurred before approval may not be eligible for reimbursement.

Due to the volume of applications, detailed feedback may be limited. However, applicants are encouraged to reapply in future funding cycles and attend any information sessions offered.

Yes. Previous applicants, whether successful or not, are welcome to apply in future funding cycles with a new or revised project.

Grant writing and application tips and tricks

Quick tips before beginning your application:

  • start early and review all eligibility criteria
  • keep your answers clear and concise
  • focus on community impact and who benefits
  • double-check your budget and timeline
  • reach out if you need support 

What makes a strong application?

Strong applications clearly describe: 

  • the community need and impact your project addresses
  • who will benefit and how
  • specific and realistic outcomes
  • a feasible plan and timeline
  • a clear, detailed and balanced budget 

Applications that demonstrate strong community connection, lived experience and meaningful impact are prioritized.   

How can I make my application more competitive?

To strengthen your application: 

  • be specific about who you are serving
  • clearly explain the impact of your project
  • show community involvement, partnerships or collaboration
  • include realistic, measurable outcomes
  • make sure your budget aligns with your activities
  • use clear and simple language, clarity is more important than technical wording 

Can I get help with my application? 

Yes. City staff are available to support applicants. Assistance may include: 

  • clarifying eligibility requirements
  • answering questions about the application
  • providing general guidance on how to strengthen your submission 

Please contact us if you would like support during the application process. 

RISE Fund recipients

Open the tabs below to learn about previous RISE Fund recipients.

  • Action For Women and Family Foundation
  • African Community Wellness Initiative
  • African Family Revival Organization
  • Association of Liberian Immigrants in Kitchener Environs
  • BeBlended
  • Coalition of Muslim Women of Kitchener-Waterloo
  • Ethiopian Association of KW & Surrounding Areas
  • Hope for Community Development
  • Levant Canada
  • Maada'oonidiwag
  • Rohingya Centre of Canada
  • The ForUsGirls Foundation

  • Abeingo Association Canada
  • African Women's Alliance of Waterloo Region
  • Afropolitan Canada
  • Bring on the Sunshine
  • CKW Naija Mama's Group
  • Congress of Black Women of Canada, Waterloo Chapter
  • Crow Shield Lodge
  • Empower Employment Inc
  • Findsuri
  • Kingsdale Community Garden
  • Koraa
  • MedInclude
  • Muslim Association of Canada – MAC Youth
  • Muslim Social Services Waterloo Region
  • Nigerians in the Region of Waterloo
  • O:se Kenhionhata:tie, Land Back Camp
  • Rhythm & Blues Cambridge
  • Somali Canadian Association of Waterloo Region
  • Sporas
  • The Caribbean Canadian Association of Waterloo Region 

  • AfriWat
  • African Family Revival Organization
  • Afropolitan Canada
  • Anjuman-e-Fakhri: Kitchener
  • Bring on the Sunshine
  • Building Brilliance KW
  • Canadian Arab Women's Association
  • Crow Shield Lodge
  • Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Indigenization Coalition
  • Eritrean Islamic Community of Waterloo Region
  • Inner Compass Well-being
  • Kind Minds Family Wellness
  • Kingsdale Community Garden
  • K-W Urban Native Wigwam Project
  • Nigerians in the Region of Waterloo
  • Rhythm & Blues Cambridge
  • Sporas
  • Textile
  • The Canadian Helpers Society

  • Afropolitan Canada (10769142 CANADA INSTITUTE) 
  • Black Fire Kitchen 
  • CanAfro Institute  
  • Coalition of Muslim Women of K-W 
  • ForUsGirls Foundation Inc. 
  • Live with SWAY 
  • Muslim Empowerment and Unity (meandu) 
  • Region of Waterloo Association of Cameroonians (ROWAC) 
  • Siinqee Institute 
  • The Canadian Helpers Society 
  • Top Tier Beauty Community Collective 
  • Wiijindamaan 

Contact Us

City of Kitchener
200 King Street West,
Kitchener, Ontario
N2G 4G7
Telephone: 519-741-2345
TTY: 1-866-969-9994
Email: info@kitchener.ca

Land acknowledgement

The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.