York Region is accepting preliminary applications for its Circular Economy Initiatives Fund (CEIF), a grant program that supports nonprofit projects reducing residential waste. The fund offers $5,000 to $25,000 for projects under two streams: Reduce Waste and Enhance Education and Awareness. Eligible projects include food waste recovery, community repair hubs, composting pilots, and waste-cutting technology. Since its launch in 2021, over $400,000 has been awarded to 20 organizations.
The Reduce Waste stream supports community-based projects that reduce environmental impacts, while the Enhance Education and Awareness stream delivers educational programming to change resident behavior. Registered charities and nonprofits can apply, with priority given to innovative, community-driven initiatives. Applications must be submitted by September 14, with successful organizations starting their projects in February 2026. The CEIF aims to promote a circular economy that eliminates waste and pollution, conserving resources through better design and reuse. Detailed application information is available online, with applicants advancing to the next stage notified in October.