SCIF Micro-Grants 2026: Applicant Guide

2026 Social and Community Investment Fund (SCIF) Eligibility Criteria

To apply to the Social and Community Investment Fund (SCIF), your organization must provide information that demonstrates the project will meet all SCIF program objectives. SCIF is intended to provide opportunities for low-income individuals and families through community programs.

The goals of the SCIF program are:

• To support projects that provide direct delivery of services and resources thattarget core needs and address gaps for people living in poverty in Simcoe County.
• To better align poverty reduction services and resources with regional Community Safety and Well-Being plans and local poverty reduction strategies.

2026 SCIF Eligibility

To qualify for SCIF funding, organizations must:

• Be located in Simcoe County or primarily serve Simcoe County residents.
• Offer community programs that provide urgent basic needs services—such as food security, healthcare essentials, and transportation—excluding shelter, housing, and income supports.
• Organizations should be incorporated into non-profit, registered charities, or community-based groups.  Grassroots groups may be eligible if partnered with a registered fiscal sponsor or community organization.  Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Programs must demonstrate inclusive service strategies to ensure equitable access for marginalized populations (e.g., Indigenous, racialized, newcomers, 2SLGBTQ+, persons with disabilities, etc.).
• Applicants must provide a detailed budget and post-project report demonstrating outcomes and financial accountability, and must have established financial management systems, including annual audited financial statements or equivalent documentation. Organizations without an established financial system must partner with a recognized trustee/donnée to ensure appropriate financial oversight.
• Funds cannot be used for capital projects.  
• Note, recipients of SCIF Micro-Grants are permitted to also apply for SCIF Standard Grants within the same funding year.

Exclusion criteria for 2026 include:

The following applicants and programs are ineligible for SCIF funding:

• For-profit organizations or publicly funded institutions. Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Programs must not duplicate existing County-funded services or other programs operating within the same catchment area and must not receive the majority of their funding from federal or provincial governments.  Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Organizations whose principal function is to act as a funding body (i.e., redistributing grants rather than directly delivering programs or services).
• Organizations affiliated with a political party or holding an explicit political mandate.
• Municipalities and Cities are not eligible to apply, unless partnered with a local non-profit.

How to Apply for 2026 SCIF Funding

• Confirm your eligibility based on the above criteria. If unsure, or seeking an exception, contact SCIF@simcoe.ca
• Visit www.simcoe.ca/SCIF to:
  • Access FAQ to support you in preparing your materials for submission.
  • Complete an online Application Form.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Eligibility

Are municipalities and townships allowed to apply for SCIF funding?

Municipalities and townships are not eligible to apply as sole applicants. However, a municipality or township may apply in partnership with an eligible non-profit organization.

Can previously funded organizations apply again?

Yes. Organizations that have received SCIF funding in previous years may apply again. Additionally, projects that have received Micro-Funding are permitted to apply for SCIF Standard funding as well. However, priority may be given to projects that demonstrate new or expanded impact aligned with current SCIF priorities.

Are there any geographic requirements for delivering services or programs?

Yes. Projects and services must be delivered within Simcoe County or primarily serve residents of Simcoe County.

Project Requirements

What types of projects are eligible for SCIF funding?

Eligible projects must align with SCIF’s priority areas and demonstrate how the proposed activities address an identified community need within Simcoe County. Applications should clearly describe intended outcomes and how the project contributes to measurable community impact.

How many community partnership letters need to be submitted with the online application?

A minimum of one community partnership letter must be uploaded to the application portal. The letter should clearly describe the role of the partnering organization and how it will support the proposed SCIF project.

Funding & Eligible Expenses

Is there a maximum amount of funding an organization can request through the Social and Community Investment Fund?

Yes.

• Microgrants: Up to $20,000
• Standard SCIF Grants: Up to $100,000

SCIF operates within a limited funding envelope and receives applications from across Simcoe County. Funding is competitive, and not all applications will be approved.

What types of expenses are eligible for funding?

Eligible expenses may include direct program costs such as staffing, supplies, materials, equipment, and project-related operational expenses.

Ineligible expenses may include capital construction costs, ongoing core operating expenses unrelated to the project, or expenses incurred prior to funding approval. Applicants should refer to the program guidelines for a complete list of eligible and ineligible costs.

What is the funding period for approved projects?

Funded projects must be completed within the 2026 funding year unless otherwise specified in the funding agreement.

Application Process

How do I submit my application?

Starting in 2026, all applications must be submitted online. Visit www.simcoe.ca/SCIF to access the online application portal.

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Can I download a copy of the application form to submit as a PDF?

No. The application is available only as an online form. If you require accommodation to complete your application, please contact SCIF@simcoe.ca.

Can an organization submit more than one application?

Yes. An organization may submit more than one application for separate projects. However, only one project per organization will be funded in a given intake period.

Evaluation & Decision-Making

How are applications evaluated?

Applications are evaluated based on alignment with SCIF priorities, demonstrated community need, clarity of proposed activities, feasibility, partnerships, measurable outcomes, and overall community impact.

What are the timelines for the application and decision-making process?

After the application deadline, submissions are reviewed and scored by the Allocation Committee. The Committee presents its funding recommendations to County Council for approval.

Once County Council has endorsed the recommendations, the County of Simcoe Community Partnerships Team will notify successful applicants.

Reporting & Accountability

What reporting is required if my organization receives funding?

Successful applicants will be required to submit progress and/or final reports outlining project activities, outcomes achieved, and financial expenditures. Reporting requirements will be outlined in the funding agreement.

General Inquiries Q. Who can I contact if I have questions about the application process?

For questions regarding application submissions, please contact SCIF@simcoe.ca.