How to apply and what to expect: 

Step 1. Have a great idea that builds affiliation and Jewish identity in the nation’s capital, by engaging more people in local Jewish life; read our FAQ page to make sure you understand the grant criteria; cost out all elements of the program; prepare a budget; if you need help, reach out.

Step 2. Click “apply now” and submit your application, which  describes your initiative in detail, at least 4 weeks before your event or initiative will take place. Include a budget with projected revenues and expenses. 

Step 3. Wait to hear from us. Completed applications will be reviewed by the Microgrants Committee. Applicants will be informed whether the application was successful, and if successful, the amount of the grant. 

Step 4.  A funding agreement between Federation and the grant recipient will be provided for review and signature. Read, sign, and return the funding agreement. Please note: The individual or organization's name on the funding agreement must match the bank account holder's name for reimbursement.

Step 5. Develop marketing, and tag Federation on social media. Send us copies of your marketing materials, which clearly recognize Federation for the provision of the grant, and include the Microgrants Logo; tag Federation on social media event posts.

Step 6. Host your event or initiative and provide verbal recognition of Federation support through Microgrant funding.

Step 7.  Complete brief post-event report and send out participant survey to all event/program registrants. To be reimbursed, you will need to send us digital copies of all receipts for program/event-related costs. All reimbursements are paid through EFTs. If it is your first time receiving a Microgrant, please ensure you share your bank transfer details for smooth reimbursement process.

To be considered, an account must be created and applications must be completed and submitted using our online platform. Here is a sample application.

APPLY NOW!

FAQs

How are grant recipients selected?

A committee of community volunteers reviews application as they are received. The review committee includes people from various backgrounds and experiences in Jewish Ottawa, who are trained in the grant review process.  

What is the committee looking for?
 The review considers the following questions:

• Does the initiative engage new people in Jewish life?
• Is it meaningful and impactful for participants? Is it relevant and enjoyable?
• Does the initiative fill a gap or appeal to an under-served population?
• In addition to being a good idea, does the initiative build synergies, and collaborative partnerships in the community?
• Is there a clear action plan and budget?
   

What kinds of activities are eligible?

• NEW STARTING JULY 1, 2025 - The Jewish Federation of Ottawa's Microgrants Committee is excited to launch the year of "Empowering the Individual," focusing on empowering and encouraging leaders in our community through Microgrant funding.

• Social-Action and Tikun Olam initiatives to combat racism, support inclusion and enable more people to be included in Jewish life.
• Backyard camps and informal summer activities that are infused with Jewish content.
• Educational, recreational, cultural, religious, and other Jewish events
• One-time programs, conferences, courses
• Activities that fit with Federation’s mission: to advance and promote an exceptional quality of Jewish life; and its vision: a thriving Ottawa Jewish community that is inclusive, accessible, educated, and engaged
• Fundraising events are not eligible for funding
• There is a maximum of three times that a single program can be supported through microgrants, after which, this program is no longer eligible for funding