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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOR-2025-386 - Racialized & Indigenous Supports for Equity (RISE) Fund 3 Year Update REPORT TO: Finance and Corporate Services Committee DATE OF MEETING: October 6, 2025 SUBMITTED BY: Yesenia Torres, Senior Equity Advisor, Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, 519-783-8497 PREPARED BY: Yesenia Torres, Senior Equity Advisor, Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, 519-783-8497 WARD(S) INVOLVED: Ward(s) DATE OF REPORT: September 23, 2025 REPORT NO.: COR-2025-386 SUBJECT: Racialized & Indigenous Supports for Equity (RISE) Fund 3 Year Update RECOMMENDATION: That Council endorses the revisions to the RISE Grant funding framework to align with the evolving needs of equity-denied communities in the City of Kitchener. REPORT HIGHLIGHTS: This report provides a three-Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Equity (RISE) Fund, outlining its impact, outcomes, and key challenges. The RISE Fund is a vital grant program supporting Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities and organizations in Kitchener. It helps address systemic inequities and fosters community well- being. This report recommends updates to the RISE funding framework to improve administration, clarify eligibility criteria, and streamline access for applicants. There are no financial implications. The report is informed by feedback from grant recipients and applicants, ongoing community engagement, input from local funders, best practices, and analysis of three years of data. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Through the community-driven vision of the RISE Fund, community groups and not-for-profit organizations have been empowered to reduce inequities, expand opportunities, and strengthen the well-being of Black, Indigenous, and other racialized communities. Grounded in a community-led funding framework, the RISE Fund enables community groups and organizations to identify and respond to the distinct needs of their communities with purpose and intention. Introduced in 2021, t priority areas, particularly Fostering a Caring City and Stewarding a Better City Together. These nnection and involvement, to ensure that the City of Kitchener remains a vibrant and welcoming community for all. By prioritizing initiatives led by and serving equity-denied communities, the fund has made strategic investments that advance equity, diversity, and inclusion. These investments empower local groups and organizations to *** This information is available in accessible formats upon request. *** Please call 519-741-2345 or TTY 1-866-969-9994 for assistance. build enduring infrastructure and strengthen community capacity. This support not only fosters sustainable growth but also contributes significantly to the overall health, resilience, and vibrancy of equity-denied communities. RISE Fund Highlights Figure 1: RISE Fund by the Numbers: 3 Years of Community-Led Impact From 2022 to 2024, the RISE Fund has invested $396,789 towards 43 local equity-denied community groups and organizations, which delivered 54 transformative initiatives that reached over 6,000 Kitchener residents. Of these, 27 initiatives were led by Black communities, five were delivered by Indigenous communities, and 22 initiatives were led by other racialized communities. These efforts have strengthened grassroots initiatives, expanded local capacity, and advanced equity-driven solutions rooted in the lived experiences, cultural knowledge, and the leadership of equity-denied communities. A comprehensive review of the RISE Fund has taken place, as directed by Council in COR-2021-22. Based on this review, staff propose the following recommendations to enhance the RISE Grant Program: Refine eligibility criteria; Optimize funding categories; Adjust the funding intake period; Enhance capacity building; and Re-evaluate the selection committee structure. These recommendations aim to improve access, enhance equity, and strengthen the overall impact of BACKGROUND: The RISE Fund serves as an initial step towards addressing the historical inequities within government funding for Black, Indigenous, and other racialized community groups and organizations. Structural inequities have not only created significant barriers but have, in many cases, systematically excluded these groups from accessing and succeeding in traditional granting processes. Addressing these disparities requires a deliberate shift toward more equitable, inclusive, and community-informed funding practices. The community played a pivotal role in shaping the RISE Fund, calling on the City to take meaningful action in addressing the systemic disparities faced by equity-denied communities. A key priority raised by the community was the urgent need to support smaller, often volunteer-led groups that are frequently overlooked in traditional grant processes due to limited infrastructure and capacity. These organizations are deeply embedded in the community but lack access to funding. The RISE Fund was designed in direct response, serving as a critical seed investment to enable these groups to build foundational capacity, strengthen infrastructure, and position themselves to pursue future funding opportunities. The grant program was launched as a three-year pilot designed to gather evidence-based data to assess community impact, identify potential barriers, and determine whether an increased budget allocation is justified based on demonstrated community needs. In its inaugural year (2022), the RISE Fund received an annual funding allocation of $50,000. Due to an overwhelming volume of applications during the first intake period in 2022, Council reallocated $46,789 in unused Community Grant Funds to the RISE fund, nearly doubling the total available funding and bringing the total available in 2023 to $96,789. This immediate additional reallocation of funds allowed the city to address the demonstrated community needs and demands better. As community needs and demands continued to grow rapidly, successive intakes to the RISE fund demonstrated a high demand for this grant funding. Council approved a further increase to the annual budget, for the remaining two years of the pilot, raising the allocation to $150,000 for 2024 and 2025. commitment to supporting evolving community needs. The RISE grant is sustained through capital funding of $150,000 in 2026. Throughout the pilot, the number of applications received each year has increased significantly, rising by 253%, from 41 in 2022 to 145 in 2024. In total, since its inception, 268 applications were received with funding requests exceeding $2 million. Table 1 outlines a summary of the number of applications and initiatives funded, and funding amounts requested and received. Funding Year Number of Funding Number of Funding Applications Amounts Initiatives Granted Received Requested Funded 2022 41 $346,059 12 $96,789 2023 82 $700, 861 22 $150,000 2024 145 $1,225,976 20 $150,000 Total 268 $2,823,896 54 $396,789 Table 1: RISE Funding Amounts Requested vs. Amounts Granted The Rise Fund is one of six key local funding streams supporting equity-denied groups in Waterloo Region. Although it receives less funding than upstream sources, it still delivers strong outcomes and meaningful impacts within the communities it serves. REPORT: This report provides a comprehensive r The report is organized into the following three main sections: Section 1: Advancing Support for Equity- Denied Communities Section 2: Key Lessons Learned and Proposed Recommendations Section 3: Future Considerations Section 1: Advancing Support for Equity-Denied Communities Advancing access, opportunity, equity, and inclusion for equity-denied communities lies at the heart of - making and access to critical resources, carry profound knowledge, resilience, and vision. Investing in their leadership, lived experiences, and culturally grounded solutions is essential to driving lasting change. By funding community-led initiatives that confront systemic barriers, the RISE Fund supports efforts that meet urgent community needs and also foster healing, belonging, and reconciliation. By centering the voices and cultural wisdom of those most impacted by inequities, the RISE Fund remains committed to empowering equity-denied communities to lead their own healing journeys, reclaim agency, restore self-determination, and create spaces that reflect the values and lived realities of the communities they serve. Funding Requests Overview Over the past three years, the number of applications received has increased by 253%. In 2022, 41 applications were received, compared to 145 in 2024. This growth can be attributed to targeted engagement and outreach efforts, which have successfully raised awareness and encouraged participation. The chart below provides a summary of applications received alongside those funded. 300 268 Applications Received vs. Funded Initiatives 250 200 145 150 82 100 54 41 50 22 20 12 0 202220232024Total Number of Applications ReceivedNumber of Groups Funded Figure 2: RISE Fund Metrics: Applications Received vs. Funds Awarded The breakdown of funding requests by category is as follows: 43% of requests focused on project-based initiatives, reflecting a strong interest in delivering impactful programming and community-driven solutions. 20% of submissions centred on events, highlighting the importance of gathering, storytelling, cultural celebration, and collective healing as ways to foster connection and visibility. 19% aimed at capacity-building efforts, underscoring the need to strengthen organizational infrastructure, leadership, and long-term sustainability. 18% sought support for core operational costs, recognizing the value of stable resources that allow grassroots groups/organizations to remain flexible, responsive, and effective in serving their communities. More than half of the funding requests demonstrated strong interest in initiatives promoting learning, creativity, and community well-being. The chart below offers an overview of the types of initiatives requested, highlighting the most popular areas of interest and community needs. Education & programming, arts & culture, mental health, and entrepreneurship emerged as the most sought-after focus areas. Types of Initiatives Requested Religious Practice Employment & Career Training Youth Supports Indigenous Outreach/Mentorship Sports & Recreation Software & Technology Cultural Festivals Entreprenuership Programming Mental Health Arts & Culture Education & Programming 0102030405060708090 Number Requested Figure 3: An Overview of the Types of Initiative Requests by the Community Funding Allocation Overview $250 s d n d a $200 e s d u r o a h $150 w T a s t $100 n u $231, 652 o m $43, 810 $49,327 $50 A $72,000 $0 Capacity BuildingOperational CostsEventsProjects Funding Categories Figure 4: A Summary of Funding Allocation by Category As a community-driven fund, the Selection Committee aligns its funding decisions with the priorities voiced by the community. This ensures that allocations directly reflect the areas of most significant interest, need, and impact. Reflecting these commitments, the most supported focus areas are education and programming, arts and culture, mental health, cultural festivals, and Indigenous outreach and mentorship, ensuring resources are directed where they matter most. For a comprehensive breakdown of funding requests and allocations, refer to Appendices A and B. By championing community-led solutions grounded in the lived experiences of equity-denied communities, the RISE Fund not only addresses community needs and priorities but also empowers those most impacted to take the lead in implementing solutions that drive meaningful change. Through this partnership, the Fund amplifies marginalized voices, drives equitable access to resources, and meaningful, community-led change. For testimonials from recipients highlighting the impact of the RISE Fund, refer to Appendix C. Section 2: Key Lessons Learned & Proposed Recommendations to the Funding Framework Following a comprehensive review of the 3 Year Pilot, staff have identified five recommendations to enhance the RISE Grant Program: a. Refine eligibility criteria; b. Optimize funding categories; c. Adjust the funding intake period; d. Enhance capacity building, and e. Re-evaluate the selection committee structure. a.Refine the Eligibility Criteria The current eligibility criteria are overly broad, generating a high volume of applications that far exceeds available funding. In the absence of well-defined focus areas and priorities, the fund has unintentionally fostered inequitable competition between well-established groups/organizations and those that are newly formed. Well-established groups/organizations and newly formed groups/organizations differ significantly in their capacity, infrastructure, and available support. Established groups/organizations have a clear advantage due to stronger infrastructure, greater capacity, and experience with grant processes. They often benefit from brand recognition, and access to multiple funding streams, including Community Foundation, and Ontario Trillium Foundation, among others. In contrast, newly formed groups and organizations face significant barriers: limited resources, volunteer dependence, lack of data and minimal grant writing experience. Without foundational support, they struggle to compete, secure funding, and build long-term sustainability. Moreover, many other grants have eligibility criteria that newly formed groups/organizations cannot meet (such as financial requirements, number of years in operation, or having a formal status), further restricting their access to necessary funding. Redefining the eligibility criteria with well-defined focus areas is vital to ensure -term impact within equity- denied communities. Funding Recipient Overview Of the 43 funded groups and organizations, 14 recipients (33%) were in the start-up phase of their lifecycle, having been in operations for five years or less. Another 18 (42%) were in the growth phase, with five to 15 years of operational experience. The remaining 11 recipients (26%) were in the maturity phase, having been in operation for over 15 years. Notably, seven of the eleven organizations have been active for over 25 years, bringing more than three times the experience of newly formed groups/organizations. Alongside funding from the RISE Fund, many well-established sustainable, long-term financial support. In contrast, numerous newly formed groups/organizations were left without any financial support. The wide variation in application quality presents significant challenges for the Selection Committee. Applications range from highly polished submissions with clear objectives, measurable outcomes, and robust budgets, to incomplete or vague proposals lacking essential information, making it difficult for the Selection Committee to apply consistent evaluation criteria and assess each application on equal merit. As a result, the Committee often spends additional time interpreting and clarifying submissions, which slows the review process and introduces concerns around fairness and transparency. Recommendation Staff recommend refining the eligibility criteria to create a more equitable playing field for emerging groups/organizations, especially those operating for five years or less. While established groups/organizations remain eligible and are encouraged to apply, prioritizing support for those with the greatest need will foster a more balanced and inclusive distribution of funding. This approach not only addresses existing barriers to access but also enhances transparency in the granting process, enabling applicants to make informed decisions about their participation. Indigenous groups and organizations will continue to be prioritized for funding regardless of their tenure. This is in recognize their deep-rooted presence in Kitchener. Additionally, clearly defining ineligible applicants will further enhance open communication and promote greater transparency. Current Funding Framework: Proposed Revisions to Framework: Refine Eligibility Eligibility Criteria Criteria Open to formal and informal Open to community groups and not-for-profit (NFP) organizations, community organizations ( informal and formal. There will be increased groups in Kitchener, whether attention on newly formed community groups, and not-for- the group is newly formed for profit organizations to support their access to funding grants. the purpose of a specific project Indigenous communities will continue to be thoughtfully or is a pre-existing group included as part of our ongoing efforts. undertaking a project. Newly emerged groups and organizations are defined as those that have been in operation for five years or less. The rubric evaluation will guide prioritization. Ineligible to receive funding: Projects, events, or initiatives whose leader(s) do not identify as Black, Indigenous, or racialized. Projects, events, or initiatives that do not serve Black, Indigenous, or racialized community members. For-profit organizations, businesses, social ventures, and enterprises that generate an income. Projects, events, or initiatives that do not take place in the City of Kitchener or serve Kitchener residents. Projects, events, or initiatives led by a single person. Post-Secondary Institutions, including student associations and student groups. Research Projects. Organizations whose activities may breach the Ontario Human Rights Code or the Charter of Rights. Organizations whose activities include conversion practices. b. Optimize the Funding Categories Capacity building and operational support are essential, particularly for newly emerged groups and organizations. Meaningful capacity development requires sustained, multi-year funding to enable organizations to grow, adapt, and contribute meaningfully to the community over time. The RISE Fund operates as a seed grant and lacks the financial and operational capacity to provide sustained support to recipients. Its broad funding categories create challenges, leaving recipients without a clear path for continued investment. This leads to instability, discouragement and stalled momentum, limiting long-term impact and growth for new initiatives. Without an ongoing investment, the potential ongoing positive impact of these funded initiatives is cut short. The Selection Committee also faces challenges in approving one-time funding for capacity building or operational costs due to the lack of ongoing support. Without sustained investment, recipients risk losing momentum and being unable to continue their work beyond the initial funding period. Given the essential to provide clarity for applicants and ensure impact. A three-year review of RISE Fund allocations shows that community groups prioritize project-based initiatives and events in their funding requests. Of all applications received, 44% of requests were for projects and 20% for events. This demand has directly shaped funding allocations, with 41% of total funding awarded to projects and 30% to events. Recommendation To align with evolving community priorities, staff recommend streamlining the number of funding categories from five to two: project-based initiatives and events. This focused approach will improve resource allocation and impact. Capacity building and operational costs are eligible expenses under both categories. Providing clearer guidance on allowable expenses and criteria will enable applicants to submit more strategic, well-aligned proposals. Current Funding Framework: Proposed Revisions: Optimize Funding Categories Funding Categories Funding Categories: Reduce the number of funding categories from five to two. Capacity building Core operational costs - with Funding Categories: a specified 3-year granting Projects limit for this category Events Project funding Event funding Grant Amounts: Other (at the discretion of the Up to $10, 000 annually for Projects granting authority and City Up to $10, 000 annually for Events solicitor) Projects and events must clearly demonstrate their Criteria: The contribution to the following outcomes: Reduce inequities by addressing systemic barriers project/initiative/event will contribute to decreasing and promoting equity-based approaches. inequities and increasing Increase opportunities for participation, connection, opportunities and the well-being and access to resources. of Black, Indigenous or other racialized community members in Enhance the well-being of Black, Indigenous, and Kitchener. other racialized community members in Kitchener. Current Funding Framework: Proposed Revisions: Optimize Funding Categories Funding Categories Additionally, funded initiatives should serve the local community by delivering projects and events that take place within Kitchener and provide direct benefits to Kitchener residents. c.Adjust the Funding Intake Period -month completion deadline, create challenges for applicants especially those with limited grant-writing capacity. Frequent cycles lead to application fatigue, strain resources, and divert focus from core programming. This is especially challenging for new groups and organizations. Delayed disbursements under the current timeline hinder smaller organizations, disrupting activities, partnerships, and time-sensitive projects. Uncertainty around funding timelines complicates planning, staffing, and securing matching contributions, reducing overall impact. Inconsistent start and end dates across initiatives make progress tracking and data collection difficult. assess outcomes. The current model also places an unsustainable burden on the volunteer Selection Committee (members of the Equity, Anti-Racism and Advisory Committee), who must commit over 20 hours per cycle to the selection process, on top of their existing responsibilities. Recommendation To address these challenges, staff recommend transitioning to a single, well communicated annual fall intake. Supported by outreach, guidance and capacity-building resources, this shift would allow applicants to submit more thoughtful, strategic proposals. Reducing intake frequency would prioritize quality over quantity, fostering a more equitable process and amplifying underrepresented voices. An annual intake will: Ease pressure on applicants managing multiple deadlines, allowing them to coordinate their efforts y Fund grants. Enhance planning, reporting and evaluation. Ensure more equitable resource distribution. Ensure a more manageable workload for volunteer Selection Committee members. Result in more timely disbursement of funding to applicants. Current Funding Framework: Proposed Revisions: Adjust the Funding Intake Funding Intake Period Period The grant program currently Shift to a single annual fall intake, starting in fall 2026. operates with two funding cycles per year, each offering a Funded projects and events will have a 12-month budget of $75,000 in eachimplementation and completion window, running from January to December. Funding cycle. Evaluation and reporting requests will begin in January, The first cycle takes place in the of the following year, after the completion of the spring, followed By a second cycle in the fall. project or event. For one-time events, evaluations can be completed Successful applicants are given an eight-month implementation window earlier, if desired by grantees. to conduct their projects, events, or initiatives, starting from the date the funds are disbursed. Funds are disbursed to each group/organization when their agreement is completed and returned d. Enhancing Capacity Building Newly formed groups and organizations often lack the foundational knowledge, skills, and tools to submit highly effective grant proposals. These groups/organizations frequently arise in response to urgent community needs and deliver high-impact programs to the communities they serve. Building grant writing capacity empowers groups and organizations to submit stronger, more strategic proposals and diversify their funding sources, reducing reliance on a single grant or donor and enhancing long- term sustainability. It also provides foundational knowledge that can be used to apply for Upstream funding, and other grant opportunities. Recommendation Staff recommend the development and implementation of a comprehensive RISE Grand funding guide to serve as a centralized resource for applicants. The resource guide would accompany staff- facilitated information sessions and grant writing workshops, rounding out the resources available for applicants to prepare for, and apply for a RISE fund grant. Current Funding Framework: Proposed Revisions: Enhance Capacity Building Capacity Building Information Sessions are provided for Continue providing staff-facilitated information each funding cycle, and grant-writing sessions and grant writing workshops to support workshops are provided when feasible. applicants in navigating the application process. Develop a comprehensive guide that outlines key funding details, including, but not limited to, the following: An overview of the funding program and its priorities; eligibility criteria and funding categories; funding amounts and allowable/ineligible expenses; evaluation criteria and the decision-making process. RISE webpage as a downloadable PDF. A direct link to the guide will also be embedded within the application form to encourage applicants to review it before submitting their proposals, enhancing preparedness and alignment with funding expectations. e.Re-evaluate the Selection Committee Structure A well-qualified Selection Committee is essential to ensuring fair, transparent and goal-aligned grant decisions. Members should offer diverse expertise in proposal evaluation, budgeting and community needs, to support meaningful outcomes. Currently, the RISE Fund relies on the Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory Committee (EARAC) for grant review. While EARAC members bring valuable lived experience, their advisory mandate differs from the strains capacity, reduces Recommendation Staff recommend exploring alternative structures that offer more targeted expertise and dedicated capacity. One potential model could be a hybrid model consisting of a combination of EARAC members and additional community representatives, allowing for broader experiences, purpose. Current Funding Framework: The Proposed Revisions: Re-evaluate the Selection Selection Committee Committee Structure The funds Selection Committee is Explore alternative structures for the selection currently composed of members from committee that offer more targeted expertise and the Equity and Anti-Racism Advisory dedicated capacity. Committee (EARAC). Explore and find ways to expand the selection Meetings for the selection process take committee meeting times to facilitate more in-depth place during regularly scheduled discussion and thoughtful decision-making. committee meetings. Staff will complete a review of grant selection committee structures for equity-focused grants and return with a proposed model prior to the Fall intake cycle in 2027. For a detailed outline of the proposed funding framework, alongside the current framework, refer to Appendices D and E. Section 3: Future Considerations The RISE Fund has been a significant success in its first three years. The significant growth in applications year-over-year since its inception demonstrates that this program is filling a need within the community. Currently, the program is funded at $150,000 through 2026. Implementing recommendations, a) through d) will provide greater transparency to Council and the public about how the RISE fund is being disbursed, and the positive impact it is having on the communities served by the programs, initiatives and events that it funds. For the RISE Fund to be expanded and enhanced beyond its current impact, staff present the following considerations: Align the RISE fund with other long-term City grant programs/initiatives such as Love My Hood and the Community Grants Program Increase staffing to provide tailored support to applicants and grant recipients throughout the funding lifecycle, from award of funding through implementation and evaluation Invest in a more efficient and effective grant management software platform to enhance data collection, analysis, and reporting Provide additional operating budget for community engagement and outreach Increase the total value of funding available, and creating a sustainable funding model (e.g. operating budget vs. annual capital allocation) Staff have not scoped the total potential cost of these further considerations as a part of this review, and therefore no recommendation is being presented on these options. However, these enhancements goals. equity-denied communities in meaningful and measurable ways. STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT: This report supports Fostering a Caring Community, and Stewarding a Better City Together. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: There are no financial implications. An allocation of $150,000 will be built into the 2026 capital forecast to support the continued operation of the RISE Grant Program. A proposal for a long-term, sustainable funding model will be proposed in 2027. Administration and support of this grant is provided by the Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (REDI) division within the Corporate Services Department. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: INFORM Thi council/committee meeting. CONSULT Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (REDI) division has gathered feedback from grant recipients, and applicants, This process, which included evaluation questionnaires, and one-on-one interactions, has been instrumental in assessing impact and shaping informed, actionable recommendations. COLLABORATE The grant is overseen by a dedicated selection committee composed of members from the Equity, Anti-Racism Advisory Committee (EARAC). This committee is committed to promoting transparency and equity, ensuring that funding decisions are made collaboratively and reflect these core values. PREVIOUS REPORTS/AUTHORITIES: COR-2021-22 Community Grant Programs for Black, Indigenous and Racialized Groups and Organizations. APPROVED BY: Victoria Raab, General Manager of Corporate Services APPENDICES: APPENDIX A: An Overview of RISE Funds Requested and Allocation by Category APPENDIX B: RISE Fund Grant History (2022 2024) APPENDIX C: Testimonials from RISE Recipients APPENDIX D: The Proposed RISE Grant Funding Framework Starting in 2026 APPENDIX E: The Current RISE Grant Funding Framework for 2022 2025 Appendix A: An Overview of RISE Funds Requested and Allocation by Category Table 2: Funding Requests vs. Allocated Funds by Categories. Appendix B: RISE Fund Grant History 2022 2024 Year Group/organization Funding Initiative Type Amount Funded Category Awarded 2022 Action For Women and Project Education & $10,000 Family Foundation Programming African Community Project Mental Health $10,000 Wellness Initiative Year Group/organization Funding Initiative Type Amount Funded Category Awarded African Family Revival Project Education & $7,979 Organization Programming Association of Liberian Capacity Building Education & $7,000 Immigrants in Kitchener Programming Environs BeBlended Project Software & $10,000 Technology Coalition of Muslim Project Entrepreneurial $10,000 Women of Kitchener-Programming Waterloo Ethiopian Association of Event Education & KW & Surrounding Areas Programming $5,000 Hope for Community Capacity Building Entrepreneurial $6,121 Development Programming Levant Canada Project Arts & Culture $10,000 Maada'oonidiwag Capacity Building Indigenous $8,000 Mentorship Rohingya Centre of Capacity Building Education & $2,689 Canada Programming The ForUsGirls Project Entrepreneurial $10,000 Foundation Programming 2023 Abeingo Association Event Funding Mental Health $5,000 Canada African Women's Alliance Project Funding Education & $10,000 of Waterloo Region Programming Afropolitan Canada Project Funding Sports & $10,000 Recreation Bring on the Sunshine Event Cultural Festival $2,500 CKW Naija Mama's Project Employment & $9,673 Group Career Training Congress of Black Project Education & $5,000 Women - Waterloo Programming Region Crow Shield Lodge Core Operational Indigenous $9,327 Costs Mentorship Empower Employment Project Funding Mental Health $10,000 Inc Findsuri Core Operational Mental Health $10,000 Costs Kingsdale Community Capacity Building Education & $6,500 Garden Programming Koraa Core Operations Sports & $5,000 Costs Recreation O:se Kenhionhata:tie, Indigenous $5,000 Land Back Camp (Willow Event outreach River Centre) MedInclude Capacity Building Software & $6,500 Technology Year Group/organization Funding Initiative Type Amount Funded Category Awarded Muslim Association of Event Education & $2,500 Canada (MAC) Youth Programming Inspire Muslim Social Services Project Education & $5,000 Programming Nigerians in the Region of Capacity Building Education & $7,000 Waterloo Programming Nigerians in the Region of Event Cultural Festival $3,000 Waterloo Rhythm & Blues Project Arts & Culture $8,000 Cambridge Somali Canadian Project Education & $10,000 Association of Waterloo Programming Region Sporas Event (Spring) Cultural Festival $5,000 Sporas Event (Fall) Cultural Festival $5,000 The Caribbean Canadian Project Entrepreneurial $10,000 Association of Waterloo Programming Region 2024 AfriWat Project Entrepreneurial $9,250 Programming AFRO (African Family Project Mental health 10,000 Revival Organization) Afropolitan Canada Project Sports & 10,000 Recreation Anjuman-e-Fakhri: Project Religious Practice $10,000 Kitchener Bring On The Sunshine Event Education & $5,000 Programming Building Brilliance KW Event Art & Culture $5,000 Canadian Arab Women's Project Education & $10,000 Association (CAWA) Programming Crow Shield Lodge Event Indigenous $5,000 Outreach Eritrean Islamic Event Cultural Festival $5,000 Community of Waterloo Region Equity, Diversity, Event Education & $4,000 Inclusion, and Programming Indigenization Coalition Inner Compass Therapy Event Mental Health $5,000 Kind Minds Family Core Operational Arts & Culture $10,000 Wellness Costs Kingsdale Community Event Mental Health $5,000 Garden K-W Urban Native Core Operational Indigenous $10,000 Wigwam Project Costs Outreach Year Group/organization Funding Initiative Type Amount Funded Category Awarded Nigerians in the Region of Project Education & $10,000 Waterloo Programming Rhythm & Blues Project Education & $8,650 Cambridge Programming Sporas Event Arts & Culture $5,000 Sporas Core Operational Education & $5,000 Costs Programming Textile Project Arts & Culture $8,100 The Canadian Helpers Project Education & $10,000 Society Programming Table 3: A Summary of the RISE Fund Grant History Appendix C: Testimonials from RISE Fund Recipients Our culturally grounded programming has meaningfully reduced social isolation among older adults, fostering new and lasting relationships between seniors and care partners. By centering the lived experiences of newcomer, Black, and Africa understanding among service providers, building bridges where barriers once stood. Through the project, staff or volunteers personally accompanied seniors to appointments with varied service providers, ensuring they had both emotional support and a trusted advocate present. As a result, seniors reported - African Family Revival Organization (AFRO), 2022 Grant Recipient for Projects participation for women, particularly during the winter season, when opportunities are often limited. Thanks to the RISE Grant, Koraa was able to fully fund key operational costs for its volleyball and badminton leagues and organize a dynamic seasonal getaway featuring team-building activities, sports challenges, and community bonding. This vital support enabled a vibrant and successful season, engaging 80 women from diverse backgrounds. More than just a sports program, the initiative fostered inclusivity and empowerment, creating welcoming spaces where women could connect, build confidence, - KORAA, 2023 Grant Recipient for Core Operational Costs community. This support has been crucial in providing a safe space, tools, and resources that empower our programs to flourish and address food insecurity. The garden has become a beloved gathering place where residents and their families come together to celebrate diversity, exchange gardening and food preparation skills, and build lasting friendships, all while caring for the environment. Through sustainable practices and the growth of fresh produce, strong community bonds have formed and continue to deepen. This vital space inspires ongoing collaboration, promotes well-being, and fosters a shared commitment - Kingsdale Community Garden, 2024 Grant Recipient for Events -long STEAM camp for racialized children, welcoming over 30 participants. We provided all meals and materials at no cost, ensuring that Additionally, we hosted free Afro fusion dance workshops for the children and their families, bringing valuable cultural experiences to our community and allowing the kids to continue exploring the arts beyond the STEAM camp days. This funding truly made a meaningful difference in expanding opportunities and enriching the lives of the - Building Brilliance KW, 2024 Grant Recipient for Events Appendix D: The Proposed RISE Grant Funding Framework Starting in 2026 Component Details of Funding Opportunity Objective/ Vision A sustained funding opportunity for groups or not-for-profit organizations run by Black, Indigenous, and other racialized community members for the purpose of providing support for community-led programs, initiatives or events meant to decrease inequities and increase opportunities and well-being for racialized communities in Kitchener. Criteria for Applicants Open to community groups and not-for-profit organizations (formal and informal) in Kitchener. Newly established groups and not-for-profit organizations operating for five years or less will be given funding priority. Indigenous communities will remain a consistent priority for funding, irrespective of their length of operation. Applicants must meet the following criteria: Groups/NFP organizations/programs/events are led by leader(s) who identify as Black, Indigenous, or racialized. organizations, and initiatives are specifically designed, managed, and implemented by individuals from racialized backgrounds. This approach ensures their unique needs and experiences are at the forefront of decision-making and service delivery). Programs, and events serve Black, Indigenous, or other racialized communities. The project/event will contribute to decreasing inequities and increasing opportunities and the well- being of Black, Indigenous, or other racialized communities in Kitchener. Projects and events are held in Kitchener and serve Kitchener residents. Projects and events are offered free of cost to participants. Provide a budget outlining how they propose to use funds. Has a bank account to receive grants, or has an agreement with an organization to sponsor them financially as a third party. Agrees to report back upon completion of the project, including an evaluation to gather information about the revenues, expenses, and proof of purchases. Ineligible to receive Project, or events whose leader(s) do not identity as funding Black, Indigenous, or racialized. Component Details of Funding Opportunity Projects, or events that do not serve Black, Indigenous, or other racialized communities in Kitchener. Projects, or events that do not contribute to decreasing inequities, and increasing opportunities and the well- being of Black, Indigenous, or other racialized community communities in Kitchener. For profit organizations, businesses, social ventures, and enterprises who generate an income. Projects, or events that do not take place in the City of Kitchener and do not serve Kitchener residents. Projects, or events led by a single person. Post-Secondary Institutions, including student associations and/or student groups. Research Projects. Groups, and organizations whose activities may breach the Ontario Human Rights Code or the Charter of Rights. Groups, and organizations whose activities include conversion practices. Funding categories and Funding Categories: criteria Project funding Event funding Criteria: The project or event will contribute to decreasing inequities and increasing opportunities and the well- being of Black, Indigenous, or other racialized communities in Kitchener. Projects or events will be held in Kitchener and serve Kitchener residents. Application process Applications will be completed through a simple online form consisting of questions relating directly to the criteria. Demographic data collection will be consistently collected with all applicants and grant recipients and tracked over time to identify potential gaps, barriers & areas for improvement. An example of a budget template will be provided Paper versions of the application will be available across all Community Centres, and at the Customer Service Centre at City Hall. Accessibility and translation support will be provided upon request. Applications are accepted annually in the fall for projects and events that will take place in the following fiscal year. Granting amounts Maximum eligible grant amount for Projects = $10, 000 Component Details of Funding Opportunity Maximum eligible grant amount for Events = $10, 000 Selection Process The Equity & Anti-Racism Advisory Committee (EARAC) will serve as the selection committee for this grant. The committee is comprised of ten to 12 community members representing a diversity of voices who have been historically underrepresented or excluded: specifically, those who are Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+ identified, people with disabilities, religious minorities, and the intersections of these identities. Facilitative and administrative support specific to the grant selection process will be provided by City staff. Table 4: The Proposed RISE Funding Framework for 2026 Appendix E: The Current RISE Grant Funding Framework for 2022 2025 Component Details of Funding Opportunity Objective/ VisionA sustained funding opportunity for groups or organizations run by Black, Indigenous, and other racialized community members for the purpose of providing support for community-led programs, initiatives or events meant to decrease inequities and increase opportunities and well-being for racialized communities in Kitchener. Open to formal and informal organizations, community Criteria for Applicants groups in Kitchener, whether the group is newly formed for the purpose of a specific project, or is a pre-existing group undertaking a project. Applicants must demonstrate that their organization/ group: Is led by and for Black, Indigenous, or racialized individuals/groups in Kitchener Has a project budget outlining how they propose to use funds Has a bank account to receive grants over $1000, or has an agreement with an organization to sponsor them financially as a third party Agrees to report back upon completion of the project, including an evaluation to gather information about nd accountability of all revenues, expenses, and proof of purchases. Project Criteria: Criteria for Projects/ The project/initiative/event will contribute to decreasing of Potential funding inequities, and increasing opportunities and the well-being categories of Black, Indigenous, or other racialized community members in Kitchener. Potential Funding Categories: Capacity building Core operational costs - with a specified 3-year granting limit for this category Project funding Event funding Other (at the discretion of the granting authority and City solicitor) Applications will be completed through a simple online Application process form consisting of questions relating directly to the criteria Demographic data collection will be consistently collected with all applicants and grant recipients and tracked over time in order to identify potential gaps, barriers & areas for improvement Templates of any required documents will be provided, such as budgets and expenses Paper versions of the application are made available across all Community Centres, and at the Customer Service Centre at City Hall Accessibility and translation support is provided upon request Component Details of Funding Opportunity Applications accepted bi-annually Staff support will be available for applicants. Maximum grant amount = $10,000 Granting amounts Minimum grant amount= $1000 Events eligible for $5000 The Equity & Anti-Racism Advisory Committee will serve Selection Process as the selection committee for this grant. This committee will be comprised of 8 to 12 community members representing a diversity of voices who have been historically underrepresented or excluded: specifically, those who are Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+ identified, people with disabilities, religious minorities, and the intersections of these identities. Facilitative and administrative support specific to the grant selection process will be provided by members of City staff. The Corporate Services General Manager is authorized to Grant Administration execute agreements with recipients pertaining to the City's RISE Fund . The agreements will be used to outline the roles and responsibilities related to grants including, if applicable, safety, liability insurance, maintenance, and project ownership. Staff within the City's Equity, Anti-Racism and Reconciliation team will oversee the grant program under the leadership of the Director of this Division. Table 5:RISE Fund Funding Framework (2022- 2025)