Organizations across Canada now have an exciting opportunity to secure up to $20,000 in funding to support impactful youth-focused initiatives. The TELUS Friendly Future Foundation®, through its Community Boards, is offering grants to support grassroots programs that empower young people and help them overcome barriers—especially through innovative uses of technology.
This funding is designed to strengthen local communities by investing in programs that improve youth health, education, and overall wellbeing.
About the TELUS Community Board Funding
The TELUS Friendly Future Foundation® is an independent registered charity committed to funding programs that create meaningful change in the lives of young people. Through its Community Boards across Canada, the foundation supports initiatives that are community-driven, locally relevant, and designed to help youth reach their full potential.
What the Grant Covers
Selected organizations can receive:
- Up to $20,000 in funding for eligible programs
- Up to $10,000 for projects under the Barrie & Central Ontario Community Board
This funding is intended for single-year, community-based programs that directly benefit youth.
Key Focus Areas
Projects must align with one or more of the following priorities:
1. Youth Support Programs
Initiatives that help young people (up to age 29) overcome social, economic, or personal barriers.
2. Technology-Driven Solutions
Programs that leverage technology to improve accessibility, reach, and effectiveness. Examples include:
- Digital learning platforms
- Program automation
- Sensory-friendly tech environments
3. Education & Skill Development
Projects that equip youth with knowledge, training, and life skills for future success.
4. Health & Wellbeing Initiatives
Programs focused on mental health, physical health, and overall wellbeing of young people.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this funding opportunity, applicants must:
- Be a registered Canadian charity or qualified donee recognized by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- Deliver programs that support youth up to age 29
- Ensure the program focuses on health or education
- Operate within one of the eligible Canadian regions covered by TELUS Community Boards
- Not have applied to the same Community Board within the last 12 months
Eligible Regions
Programs must be delivered in one of the following regions:
- Atlantic Canada (PEI, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador)
- Quebec (Montreal, Quebec City, Rimouski)
- Ontario (Ottawa & Eastern Ontario, Greater Toronto & Hamilton, Barrie & Central Ontario)
- Manitoba & Saskatchewan
- Alberta (Calgary & Southern Alberta, Edmonton & Northern Alberta)
- British Columbia (Interior & Northern BC, Vancouver & Coastal, Vancouver Island)
Ineligible Funding Requests
The following are not eligible for funding:
- Organizational operating costs (e.g., salaries, rent, utilities)
- Capital campaigns or debt reduction
- Sponsorships, advertising, or retroactive funding
- Scholarships or bursaries
- International programs
- Requests for TELUS products or services
- Religious programs without inclusive participation
Application Timeline
- Applications Open: January 5, 2026
- Deadline: April 10, 2026
- Notification of Results: June 2026
Additional funding cycles are available later in the year, but applicants are encouraged to apply early to maximize their chances.
Why You Should Apply
This funding opportunity is ideal for organizations looking to:
- Expand or scale youth programs
- Integrate technology into service delivery
- Create measurable impact in local communities
- Access flexible funding without long-term commitments
Programs that clearly demonstrate innovation—especially through the use of technology—will have a competitive advantage.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit a separate application for each Community Board region where their program operates. Ensure your proposal clearly outlines your program’s goals, impact, and how technology enhances your delivery.
For more information about this apportunity, click here.
Discover more grant opportunities, click here.
