The Community Foundation of the South Okanagan Similkameen offers several types of funding and financial support to help strengthen our communities. While each opportunity has its own eligibility criteria and application process, this page provides a high-level overview to help you determine where to begin.
If you’re unsure which option applies to you, start here.
Grants (for organizations & community initiatives)
Grants are available to support projects, programs, and services that create positive community impact across the South Okanagan Similkameen.
Grants are generally intended for:
- Registered charities
- Non-profit organizations
- Community groups
- Municipal or partner-led initiatives
Each grant program has its own focus, eligibility requirements, funding amounts, and timelines.
View current grant opportunities
You’ll find detailed information on eligibility, application deadlines, and how to apply on each individual grant page.
Bursaries (for students)
Bursaries provide financial support to graduating and returning students — including adult learners — who are pursuing post-secondary education or training.
Bursaries are generally intended for:
- Students who live in, or have graduated from high school in, the South Okanagan Similkameen region
- Youth and adult learners
- Students demonstrating financial need
- Applicants pursuing a wide range of educational paths, including trades, fine arts, sciences, and professional programs
Each bursary fund has its own eligibility criteria, award amount, and application requirements.
Learn about bursaries and student eligibility
Impact Investing (for community-benefit enterprises)
Impact investing is a different form of financial support that allows the Foundation to invest in, or lend to, organizations and businesses doing work that benefits the community.
Unlike grants, impact investments are designed to be repaid over time, allowing the Foundation to reinvest funds into future community initiatives.
Impact investing may be appropriate for:
- For-profit businesses
- Non-profit organizations
- Registered charities
- Social enterprises
- Innovative community-focused initiatives
Projects can be at various stages of development and may involve financial investment, loans, or strategic support.
Learn more about impact investing
Choosing the Right Path
- If you’re applying as an organization seeking funding for a project or program, start with Grants.
- If you’re applying as an individual student, explore Bursaries.
- If you’re leading a business or enterprise with community benefit, Impact Investing may be the right fit.
Each opportunity includes detailed eligibility criteria and application instructions on its own page.
Need help or have questions?
If you’re unsure where to apply or have questions about eligibility, we’re happy to help guide you.