Calling All College Changemakers: Get $5,000 to Launch Your Community Project

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Are you a college or university student in Ontario with a passion for improving your community? Whether you care about public spaces, social inclusion, or civic engagement, the Ontario Community Changemakers Program (2025–2026) is your chance to turn that passion into real-world impact, with funding, mentorship, and skill-building support.

🗓️ Deadline to Apply: August 25, 2025 at 5:00 PM (EDT)
🔗 Apply here

Why College Students Should Apply

The Ontario Community Changemakers (OCC) program is designed for young adults (19+) living in Ontario, and it's the perfect fit for college students who:

  • Want real-world leadership experience

  • Have a great idea to bring people together or improve public space

  • Need seed funding and mentorship to make it happen

  • Are looking for something powerful to add to their resume or grad school application

What You Get

If selected, you'll join a cohort of changemakers from across the province and receive:

✅ $5,000 in funding to bring your idea to life
✅ Access to The Studio, in-person and virtual workshops (Oct 16, 24–25, 2025)
✅ Monthly mentorship and networking sessions through September 2026
✅ A spot in a growing network of social innovators and community leaders

What Kind of Projects Are Eligible?

As a college student, you probably already see gaps or needs in your campus or neighborhood. This is your chance to address them.

Eligible project themes include:

  • Activating a public space (think art murals, student gardens, pop-up events)

  • Encouraging civic participation (voter engagement, student advocacy)

  • Promoting social inclusion (welcoming new students, cross-cultural events)

You don’t need a long resume. You just need a bold idea and a commitment to making a difference.

Who Should Apply?

  • Ontario residents aged 19 or older (college students, recent grads, etc.)

  • Students from underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply: Indigenous, Black, racialized, 2SLGBTQI+, and more

  • Individuals who are passionate, committed, and ready to take action

This is not a scholarship, it’s an investment in you as a leader.

Key Dates

  • Applications Due: August 25, 2025, by 5:00 PM EDT

  • Virtual Orientation: October 16, 2025

  • In-Person Studio in Toronto: October 24–25, 2025

  • Ongoing Support: Monthly coaching and project development through September 2026

Ready to Take the Lead?

This is your chance to gain project experience, receive mentorship, and create real impact in your community. Plus, the $5,000 funding can help you test and grow an idea that might even become your long-term passion or career.

🔗 Start your application here:
https://ontariocommunitychangemakers.org/apply-now/

Stay tuned, we’ll continue to spotlight more fellowships, training programs, and funding opportunities for students who want to lead, serve, and build something meaningful.





Location: Canada

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