KAWARTHA LAKES-Invest Kawartha, formerly known as the Kawartha Lakes Business and Community Development Corporation (KL BCDC) announced the launch of a new funding program to support local not-for-profits.(NFP)
Officials say the LEAP Initiative has been designed to contribute to the growth, resiliency, and vibrancy in the Kawartha Lakes by providing financial support to non-profit organizations. This two-year pilot will assist NFPs in developing programs that align with their strategic priorities and current projects in the region. With a total distribution amount of $200,000 over two years, LEAP will accept applications for projects ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.
The funds will contribute to new initiatives, enhance existing programs, and support ongoing projects that positively impact the communities the NFPs serve. Funding is available for both capital and non-capital costs directly related to project activities.
“LEAP has been designed to strengthen Kawartha Lakes and its surrounding communities” says Vince Killen, Executive Director at Invest Kawartha. “The program will support strategic community economic development projects, social innovation, and NFPs by building capacity in our local communities to design and scale initiatives that add to increased resiliency, innovation, and collaboration in our community.”
LEAP is an acronym that represents the mission and goals of the program:
- Locally based support for NFPs
- Empowering projects through local and regional economic development
- Access to Capital, Talent, Resources and Business Advisory services
- Projects that are incremental, scalable, and results-driven
The program aims to support the development of activities that promote healthy, active living, contribute to the quality of life in the region, boost tourism, result in job creation, and aid in the achievement of NFP strategic goals. Ideal projects are incremental in nature, align with the strategic priorities of the K LBCDC, and not create a dependency on KL BCDC funding.
“We are excited about the potential impact of the LEAP program on our community,” said Adam Hayward, Board Chair at KL BCDC. “By empowering non-profit organizations, we aim to enhance the overall well-being of Kawartha Lakes and contribute to sustainable economic development. We encourage eligible organizations to take advantage of this funding opportunity and bring their innovative projects to life.
Interested organizations are encouraged to submit their applications by March 31, 2024.
Application details and more information are available on www.launchkawartha.com/leap
