The landscape of innovation in Canada continuously changes. One of the more powerful opportunities to make real, lasting change for other entities that are looking to effect positive, systemic change is the System Innovations Grant Program. Facilitated by the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), this grant supports partnerships working together to strengthen the youth sector for young people aged 12–29. The System Innovations Grant (SiG) focuses on the root causes and youth involvement in our national food system and its long-term impact.
What Is the System Innovations Grant?
The Enhancing Systems and Youth Outcomes Grant is meant to fund long-term, collaborative initiatives that enhance youth-serving systems in Ontario. Instead of supporting direct delivery of services, it funds projects that work to change systems in education, justice, health, and social service. Qualified organizations can receive $250,000 annually for two to five years, up to a total maximum of $1,250,000. This significant investment allows grantees the capacity to implement systems-focused strategies and achieve lasting impact.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to apply for the System Innovations Grant, an organization must:
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Be based in Ontario and have demonstrated success providing community-based programs and services
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Operate as a not-for-profit for at least five years
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Show financial capability to manage OTF funds, such as by providing audited financial statements
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Be among the following: registered Canadian charities or foundations, not-for-profit corporations, First Nations communities, Métis chartered community councils, or Inuit organizations
Eligible applicants don’t include municipalities, universities, colleges, schools, hospitals, or religious organizations—except if they have made their annual operating budget public for at least five years.
Application Process
Pre-Application Coaching Calls
OTF provides one-on-one coaching calls to explain requirements, answer questions, and walk applicants through the process.
Organization Information
Include legal and operational information such as:
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Legal/operating names
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Incorporation and registration numbers (charitable)
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CRA Business Number
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Board members
Project Proposal
Describe how you will bring about systems change. Include:
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Objectives and expected outcomes
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Specific budget and multi-year timetable
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Evaluation and reporting plan
Supporting Documents
Submit required documents, including:
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Business plan or project description
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Proof of incorporation or legal structure
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Audited financial statements for the past two years
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Letters of endorsement from community partners
Final Submission
Review your entire application carefully and submit it on time. Eligibility will be verified by OTF before proposals are evaluated against selection criteria.
Selection Criteria
OTF evaluates applications according to:
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Alignment with programmatic goals to build the capacity of youth-serving systems
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Feasibility of the proposed program (approach to attain approval or licensure) and reasonable availability of resources
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Potential for great and lasting harm to children (mitigation considered)
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Level of engagement with other organizations and stakeholders
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Quality and clarity of evaluation and reporting plans
Advantages of the System Innovations Grant
Beyond financial support, grantees gain:
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Access to OTF’s coaching and continuous counsel
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Opportunities to collaborate with external partners for evaluation
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Regular check-in points for tracking progress and adaptive management
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A culminating knowledge-sharing showcase to present best practices and lessons learned
Tips for a Successful Application
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Begin Early: Give yourself enough time to gather materials and refine your proposal.
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Ask for Help: Book OTF coaching sessions for any questions.
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Be Specific and Brief: Clearly state objectives, strategies, and anticipated results.
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Prove Impact: Demonstrate through data and research the potential benefits for young people.
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Focus on the Collective Work: Highlight teamwork and stakeholder involvement.
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Evaluation Plan: Provide a clear plan for monitoring progress and reporting outcomes.
Read related Unlock Funding Opportunities with CFAs Grant Accelerator
Conclusion
The System Innovations Grant is a rare opportunity for youth-serving organizations to improve the quality of life for young people across Ontario by addressing systemic issues that affect their lives. With large, multi-year funding, expert coaching, and a strong focus on collaboration and measurable impact, grantees can drive meaningful and sustainable change.
If your organization qualifies and seeks to strengthen how systems serve youth, start planning your application today. The Ontario of tomorrow will be built through innovative, systemic solutions—and your project could be the next to shape that future.
Here is the official link to the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) System Innovations Grant page: https://otf.ca/our-grants/youth-opportunities-fund/system-innovations-grant
