How to Apply for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Funding (Eligibility + Deadlines)

How to Apply for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Funding (Eligibility + Deadlines)

Many organizations across Canada want to host meaningful events on September 30 but are unsure how federal funding works. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation funding helps support projects that honour Survivors. It also helps remember children who never returned home. The funding aims to educate the public about the legacy of residential schools. The program is delivered by Canadian Heritage and is open to eligible groups across Canada.

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What the Funding Covers

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation funding is delivered through Canadian Heritage’s Commemorate Canada – Legacy of Residential Schools initiative. The main goal is to support community-led, culturally respectful activities tied to September 30.

Who Can Apply

This funding is not meant for traditional for-profit businesses. In Canada, eligible applicants usually include:

• Indigenous governments, communities, and organizations
• Non-profit organizations and registered charities
• Educational institutions, including schools and school boards
• Municipalities and local governments
• Cultural, arts, and heritage organizations

Canadian examples include Indigenous Friendship Centres, local museums, school boards, and community non-profits. For-profit businesses in Canada are generally not eligible to apply on their own, but they can still be involved. For example, a local business might supply catering or print materials for a funded event, or a social enterprise might partner with a non-profit to deliver a specific activity.

Eligible Projects and Activities

Projects must relate directly to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the legacy of residential schools. Some examples are:

• Public commemorative events or ceremonies on or near September 30
• Educational workshops, speaker series, or panel discussions
• Artistic and cultural programming led by Indigenous creators
• Exhibits, installations, or digital storytelling projects
• Community-led remembrance and healing activities

Your project should show respect for Indigenous knowledge. When possible, include meaningful collaboration with Indigenous partners.

Funding Amounts

There is no fixed maximum funding amount listed for this program. The amount you can request depends on:

• The size and length of your project
• How many people or communities you will reach
• What expenses you need to cover and your total budget

Ask only for what you need to run your project. Canadian Heritage reviews applications to make sure they offer good value and fit the program’s goals.

Eligible Expenses

You can use this funding for many project costs:

• Honoraria for Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and speakers
• Artist and facilitator fees
• Venue rentals and equipment
• Accessibility services, such as ASL interpretation or translation
• Promotional and outreach costs for your event
• Travel costs, if needed and justified

You usually cannot use this funding for buying equipment that will last beyond the event or for ongoing operational costs.

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Application Process and Deadlines

How to Apply

Applications are sent directly to Canadian Heritage. The typical process includes:

1. A clear project description showing how your activity supports truth and reconciliation
2. A detailed budget with only eligible expenses
3. A timeline leading up to September 30
4. Details about partnerships, especially with Indigenous organizations or communities

If you are unsure about your eligibility or project fit, you can use GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to check before you apply.

Key Deadlines

There is no single annual deadline for this funding. Instead:

• Canadian Heritage sets specific intake periods
• Applications should be submitted well before September 30
• Late applications are unlikely to get approved in time for the National Day

Always check the official program page for the most current intake dates.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Applying too late
   Processing takes time. If you submit close to September 30, your project may not get funded in time.

2. Weak connection to truth and reconciliation
   General community events without a clear educational or commemorative focus are usually not approved.

3. No Indigenous involvement when needed
   Projects about residential schools should show meaningful Indigenous leadership or collaboration.

4. Including ineligible costs
   If you include ongoing staff salaries or unrelated expenses, your application may be weakened.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Canadian businesses apply for this funding?
For-profit businesses in Canada are not usually eligible as main applicants. However, businesses can be paid suppliers or work as partners for eligible organizations.

Q: How much funding can I request?
There is no set maximum. The funding you can request depends on your project’s size, budget, and community impact.

Q: Does my project have to happen on September 30?
Activities should take place on or near September 30. Some preparation or follow-up may be allowed if it supports the commemoration.

Q: Is this funding taxable?
For non-profits and charities, grant funding is usually treated as project revenue. Tax rules depend on your organization’s structure. It’s best to get professional advice.

Q: Can schools and municipalities in Canada apply?
Yes. Schools, school boards, and municipalities are often eligible applicants.

Q: Where can I find other grants for reconciliation or Indigenous-focused projects?
Platforms like GrantHub update federal, provincial, and Indigenous-focused funding programs regularly. This can help you find the right fit for your project.

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