The Foundation’s Responsive program provides grants to nonprofit organizations for community-driven initiatives that improve access to justice for people in Ontario. Responsive grants support projects/programs delivering new or existing legal services, legal education, and legal research.
When and how to apply
- We will have one call for applications in 2026.
- We anticipate the call to open in July, although this timing is subject to change.
- We aim to communicate granting decisions within approximately 6 months after the application deadline closes.
- The call will be communicated through our newsletter and social media.
- Applications will be accepted through our new Grant Portal only. (Details coming soon.)
New application categories
For 2026, we are streaming applications into two categories. We hope this gives applicants more direction and clarity as to which types of activities are eligible, and at what funding amount. The two categories are:
- Seed grant: available for new or existing legal projects/programs that have been operating for less than 2 years at the time of application. These activities are eligible for up to $250K for up to 2 years.
- Grow grant: available for legal projects/programs that have been operating for 2 or more years at the time of application. These projects/programs are eligible for up to $500K for up to 2 years.
Current Responsive grantees
If your organization has an active Responsive grant, we strongly recommend you speak with your Grants Manager after the call has launched. An organization cannot have two Responsive grants at the same time. The status and timelines of your current Responsive grant need to be considered.
Next steps
We anticipate the call to open in July, although this timing is subject to change. To ensure a fair process, we cannot respond to questions or engage in conversation at this time. Extensive supporting material will be provided and there will be ample opportunity to ask questions after the call for application launches.
