The OCC Blog

From exciting new projects to media mentions, check back regularly for all of the latest updates from Ontario Community Changemakers.

The Power of Unconventional Funding 

Now in our third year of the Ontario Community Changemakers program, a microgrant and fellowship opportunity designed by 8 80 Cities and powered by Balsam Foundation, we are beginning to see the return on investment this type of youth-focused low-barrier funding can offer.  

Twenty Young Leaders Selected As Ontario Community Changemakers For Their Innovative Ideas To Improve Their Communities

20 young leaders from Ontario will receive a $ 5,000 microgrant and leadership development and training to implement their idea to activate public space, enhance civic engagement and foster social inclusion in their Ontario communities.

#OCChangemakers 2022-2023 Mid-Year Project Highlights: Kaitlin & Francess

Updates from Kaitlin & Francess at the mid-year of the implementation of their projects as an #OCChangemaker.

#OCChangemakers 2022-2023 Mid-Year Project Highlights: Noelle, Raghad & Takanya

Updates from Noelle, Raghad & Takanya at the mid-year of the implementation of their projects as an #OCChangemaker.

#OCChangemakers 2022-2023 Mid-Year Project Highlights: Elisa, Grant & Jasmeen

Updates from Elysa, Grant & Jasmeen at the mid-year of the implementation of their projects as an #OCChangemaker.

#OCChangemakers 2022-2023 Mid-Year Project Highlights: Ashley, Bee & Celynne

Updates from Ashley, Bee & Celynne at the mid-year of the implementation of their projects as an #OCChangemaker.

#OCChangemakers 2022-2023 Mid-Year Project Highlights: Amrita, Armi & Avery

Updates from Amrita, Armi & Avery at the mid-year of the implementation of their projects as an #OCChangemaker.

Applications are open for the 2023 Ontario Community Changemakers Program!

Twenty successful applicants will receive $5,000 to implement their project idea, leadership development training from 8 80 Cities, and peer-to-peer networking with other grassroots community champions.

#OCChangemakers 2021-2022 Project Highlights: Cheryl, Erin, Kaitlyn, and Mitchell

Updates from Cheryl, Erin, Kaitlyn and Mitchell at the end of their one year as an #OCChangemaker

The Honour of Supporting and Celebrating More Changemakers from Ontario

Insights from the second edition of the Ontario Community Changemakers program