New funding gives boost to economic development, culture in Kawartha Lakes

Kawartha Lakes council has approved two innovative funding initiatives to support the work done by local not-for-profit organizations.

The Local Economic Development Support Grant and the Cultural Facilities Operational Support Grant will provide significant operational funding to strengthen the cultural economy and contribute to local economic development efforts.

Local not-for-profits enhance the quality of life for residents and attract visitors to the area’s rich cultural experiences and economic opportunities.

With an allocation of $100,000 for 2024, the Local Economic Development Support Grant will provide operational funding to not-forprofit organizations in Kawartha Lakes.

This grant emphasizes the significance of supporting the operations of organizations that advance hyperlocal initiatives. These initiatives play a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community pride, contributing to the overall economic development of individual communities.

Recognizing the key role of cultural not-for-profits in enriching community life, $200,000 has been dedicated to the Cultural Facilities Operational Support Grant for 2024.

This grant is for cultural not-forprofits, such as museums, historical societies and performance centres that offer community cultural initiatives to residents and visitors from a facility located in Kawartha Lakes.

Applicants for both grants can request up to 25 per cent of the organization’s eligible fixed costs up to a maximum of $20,000.

Eligible organizations include those that address the strategic priorities within the Kawartha Lakes Strategic Plan, Economic Development Strategy and other associated plans and policies.

Applications for both grants are open until April 30. Visit kawarthalakes.ca for more information.

This grant is for cultural not-forprofits, such as museums, historical societies and performance centres