Applications are now open through the Greenbelt Foundation’s Prosperous Greenbelt and Resilient Greenbelt funding streams. Eligible charities and non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit their project ideas by April 10, 2018. The Greenbelt Foundation’s priorities for these funding programs include promoting a sustainable rural and agricultural Greenbelt economy, maintaining the integrity of Greenbelt systems for public benefit, restoring and enhancing Greenbelt systems, and protecting vulnerable water resources for residents, agriculture and businesses.
“The Greenbelt is a tremendous asset to the people of Ontario, providing $3.2 billion in direct ecosystem service benefits to Ontarians every year and supporting $9.1 billion in economic activity,” says Edward McDonnell, CEO of the Greenbelt Foundation. “Through our grant program, the Greenbelt Foundation is investing in increased environmental and economic returns from the Greenbelt. The funding will enhance the health of the Greenbelt’s systems, support farmers and foster a sustainable rural economy.”
The two funding streams work together to support both the ecological health of the Greenbelt, and the success of the Greenbelt’s working landscape. The Prosperous Greenbelt funding stream invests in projects that support agricultural operations, natural and cultural heritage, and increase access to nature, local food, recreation, and tourism in the Greenbelt. In addition, this stream supports initiatives to bolster sustainable economic growth, including low-carbon approaches to farming and recreation.
The Resilient Greenbelt funding stream encourages investment in the Greenbelt’s natural and water resources systems as well as its agricultural soils. As Ontario’s population grows, the resilience of the Greenbelt’s systems will require more investment. From a climate mitigation and adaptation lens, the health of the Greenbelt is essential to the resilience of the region.
“The Greenbelt Foundation’s grant program has a strong track record, and we look forward to enabling more groups and organizations to contribute to the Greenbelt’s ongoing success,” says Shelley Petrie, Program Director at the Greenbelt Foundation. “The benefits the Greenbelt provides are essential to the health and well-being of the 7 in 10 Ontarians who live in and around the Greenbelt. The Foundation will support projects that enhance and preserve those benefits.”
Interested organizations should visit www.greenbelt.ca/grants to learn more and submit their proposals.
Source : greenbelt