2026 Social Innovation Project Grants

Key dates

Applications open: August 17, 2026
Applications close: September 25, 2026
Council report: December 2, 2026

Review 2026 SIP guide and budget template

All applications will be submitted through VanApply.

Learn more on how to apply

Get in touch with a planner

A planner can help if you need:

Accessibility accommodations
Support as a first-time applicant
Help with additional questions or concerns

Email: [email protected]

Social Innovation Project (SIP) Grants provide one-time funding to address complex social problems and create positive social outcomes. The grants support organizations and partnerships to test new ideas through pilot projects, expand promising approaches, and try new ways of working.

Program priorities

The 2026 SIP program focuses on strengthening the social sector by helping organizations and communities build resilience, work better together, coordinate services and resources, and share knowledge and learning.

Priority areas include:

Accessibility
Addressing anti-Black racism
Community safety
Food systems
Supporting social-serving ethnocultural organizations
Issues affecting seniors serving sector
Women's safety and gender equity
Issues affecting youth serving sector
2STGD+ communities

Check your eligibility
Review the 2026 SIP Grants Information Guide (148 KB) to confirm your eligibility.

Projects must:
- Be one-time initiatives lasting up to 18 months
- Advance 1 or more program priorities
- Use an innovative approach
- Pilot, test, or adapt new ideas
- Respond to emerging needs or gaps in services
- Involve meaningful partnerships, where appropriate
- Outline how the project will be evaluated and what will be learned
How to apply
1. Review the Information Sheet (148 KB). This information sheet covers keys aspects, including:
  - Eligibility
  - Decision-making considerations
  - Application process
  - Important dates
2. Submit your application through VanApply.
  - Learn more on how to get started with VanApply
  - Watch a 20-minutes video with tips on using VanApply External website, opens in new tab
If you require any technical support, email [email protected] or [email protected]

Contact us

Email: [email protected]

Past programs

Review past projects funded through the Social Innovation Project grants:

City of Vancouver virtual assistant

Tell us how you found your conversation today