Community Grants Program

Investing in the place you call home.

Every year, BCM gives directly back to Niagara and Haldimand County nonprofits. Because when the community is stronger, everyone is better protected.

See Our Recipients How to Apply

Why We Give

No shareholders means the community gets the return.

BCM is owned by its policyholders. There are no investors expecting a dividend. So in years when there is a surplus, part of it goes back where it belongs: into the communities where our policyholders live and work.

In 2019, we formalized this commitment with the Community Grants Program. Since then, we have supported 66 organizations serving more than 150,000 residents across the Niagara Region and Haldimand County.

The grants fund events, infrastructure, and programs that strengthen the social fabric of our communities. From food security to arts and culture, youth development to palliative care, the organizations we support are doing the work that makes Niagara a better place to live.

Children participating in a community program

Investing in Niagara

Seven years of giving back.

Contributed since 2019

Returned directly from policyholder premiums to Niagara and Haldimand County nonprofits.

Organizations supported

Local nonprofits working in food security, youth development, arts, health care, and community building.

Residents served

Across every corner of the Niagara Region and Haldimand County.

Years running

Established in 2019 and growing every year since.

What We Fund

Grants support the people and causes that strengthen our communities.

Food Security

Programs that ensure children and families across Niagara have access to nutritious meals and sustainable food sources.

Youth and Family Services

Organizations that support children, at-risk youth, and families through mentorship, advocacy, and direct care.

Arts and Culture

Festivals, performances, and arts organizations that enrich community life and celebrate local talent across the region.

Health and Wellness

Palliative care, cancer support, cardiovascular health, and therapeutic programs that serve residents in need.

Community Safety

Search and rescue, child advocacy, victim services, and violence prevention organizations protecting our neighbours.

Environment and Agriculture

Sustainability initiatives, agricultural fairs, nature experiences, and environmental education serving the region.

Grant Recipients

The organizations making Niagara stronger.

Since 2019, the BCM Grant Committee has selected organizations that demonstrate exceptional dedication to their communities. Filter by year to explore past recipients.

$5,000

An organization for children and youth living with autism. Grant for title sponsorship for their fundraising gala.

$10,000

Funding furnished a sensory room for Niagara youth, supporting programs Autism Ontario has run across the region for over 35 years.

$5,000

Baby's Breath Canada is a non-profit organization that raises awareness about Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and provides emotional and practical support to families who have lost a child to SIDS.

$5,000

The Beamsville BIA promotes and enhances the downtown Beamsville area, working with local business owners, property owners, and other stakeholders on initiatives that attract shoppers, visitors, and investors and benefit the wider community.

$7,500

Arts in education theatre company. Grant to sponsor their 50th Anniversary Festival in 2022.

$5,000

Trunk or Treat

October 26th, 2025

Community Crew provides nutritious lunches and hope throughout the school year to children who need it most. Our program helps to empower children and unite businesses and supporters through community engagement.

This organization provides lunches 1-2 times per week to children in 24 schools in Niagara. Title sponsorship for Break the Cycle fundraising event.

$5,000

Community Crew Niagara is a non-profit organization that empowers young people to become active and responsible citizens through leadership development and community service, helping build a stronger and more inclusive community across the region.

$5,000

Community Crew packs and delivers about 4,000 boxed lunches each week to food-insecure children at 29 schools across St. Catharines, Welland, Niagara Falls, Fort Erie, and Thorold. Their mission is to Provide Hope to Children, One Lunch at a Time.

$5,000

Roll in Rotary

August 24, 2024

Downtown Bench Beamsville works to revitalize and promote the Beamsville downtown area, enhancing its appeal to residents and visitors alike. Their initiatives support local businesses and community events, fostering a vibrant downtown culture.

$5,000

The Downtown Welland BIA promotes and revitalizes Welland's downtown, working with local business owners, property owners, and other stakeholders on initiatives that bring shoppers, visitors, and investors to the area.

$5,000

TASC Niagara Presents Beauty and The Beast

April 25-26, 2025 / May 2-3, 2025

TASC Niagara, a non-profit organization established in 1998, provides musical, dramatic, and social opportunities for people with disabilities and their families.

$20,000

Renovation to multi-purpose and life skills training rooms used by the children/youth in-care programs.

$5,000

LemonAID Stands

June 8, 2024

FACS Niagara (Family and Children’s Services Niagara) provides support and services to children, families, and individuals in need, promoting a safe and nurturing environment for the community’s well-being.

$7,500

Funding sponsored the first Food4Kids Niagara gala, supporting the weekend food packages the organization delivers to children facing food insecurity across the community.

$4,705

Variety of equipment used in their Lake Ontario rescue operations.

$6,000

Rescue and safety equipment (floatation suits).

$5,000

Gillian's Place supports survivors of gender-based violence with free, confidential, wrap-around services that span prevention, crisis counselling, legal support, safety planning, and transitional housing for women, children, and non-binary people facing violence.

$5,000

The Women in Business Awards establishes community partnerships that develop a shared voice on issues affecting women in business across Niagara. The event provides resources and learning opportunities while celebrating the professional achievements of women.

$5,000

The Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that serves as the voice of the Niagara business community, providing networking, advocacy, and resources that help local businesses grow and supporting a sustainable regional economy.

$5,000

The Ultimate Summer Reading Kickoff Party

June 6th, 2026

The Ultimate Summer Reading Kickoff Party promotes early and ongoing literacy and removes barriers to participation in educational and recreational programming, offering children and families a welcoming entry point to the Grimsby Public Library.

$5,000

Cruising on the Q

May 31 – September 24, 2024

Heart Niagara Inc. aims to improve cardiovascular health through education, services, and community initiatives. Their programs significantly contribute to the awareness and prevention of heart diseases in the Niagara region.

$27,800

New concrete walkways increasing the accessibility of their outdoor facilities.

$5,000

Wild West Day

June 22, 2024

Horse Sense for Kids utilizes equine-assisted learning to provide therapeutic and developmental support to children facing challenges. This unique approach helps build confidence, resilience, and social skills.

$5,000

Horse Cents for Kids enriches the lives of at-risk youth across the Niagara Region through interactions with horses. Their afterschool horsemanship program teaches handling, feeding, saddling, and riding, building self-confidence, social skills, and a passion for horses.

$5,000

For nearly 30 years, Hospice Niagara has helped people with a life-limiting illness and their families live well, providing free programs and services in homes, in the community, and at the 10-suite Stabler Centre in St. Catharines.

$5,000

Jarvisfest

August 16, 2024

Jarvis Board of Trade promotes economic development and community growth in Jarvis through business support, networking, and advocacy. Their work helps strengthen the local economy and supports small businesses.

$5,000

153rd Caledonia Fair

September 25th, 2025

The Caledonia Agricultural Society was established as a non-profit organization under the Agricultural and Horticultural Organizations Act in 1873. Haldimand County’s oldest community organization with many member families spanning four or more generations.

$5,000

Brave Hearts Gala

October 23, 2024

Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre Niagara provides a safe place for children and youth who have experienced abuse to receive support and services. Their work helps victims heal and advocates for the prevention of child abuse.

$5,000

The Kristen French Child Advocacy Center provides a safe environment for children and youth who have experienced abuse, with forensic interviews, medical evaluations, counselling, and court accompaniment to support healing and bring offenders to justice.

$5,000

The Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre is a safe space for children and youth to disclose experiences of abuse and trauma and begin healing through one-on-one counselling and therapeutic programming. The Spotlight Gala raises awareness and funds for those programs.

$10,000

Organization works with youth who have been victims of violence. Funding for title sponsorship of October fundraising gala which will be televised.

Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre Niagara

$5,000

Brave Hearts Gala

November 7th, 2025

$14,000

Furniture for new location at the Pathstone Mental Health facility in St. Catharines.

$10,000

Construction of accessible walkway to new greenhouse where food for low-income families who access their Good Food Box program is grown.

Links for Greener Learning-Food insecurity-workshops

$5,000

Earth Day 2025 Our Power, Our Planet

April 16th, 2025

Links for Greener Learning is an environmental charity organization dedicated to serving the community through the promotion of eco-friendly and sustainable practices.

$5,000

Music Niagara is a not-for-profit charity founded in 1998 that presents diverse summer music in unique settings across Niagara-on-the-Lake. BCM's 2023 support helps fund their 25th anniversary festival, including 15 concerts and a special Outreach Concert for Ukraine.

$5,000

Silent Disco Fundraiser

September 18th, 2026

The Silent Disco Fundraiser builds awareness and raises funds for inclusive community-based programming, supporting caregiver respite, community education, and inclusive recreation for neurodivergent families across Niagara.

$5,000

Niagara College's fundraising events have raised more than $3 million for learning resources, scholarships, and bursaries over 30 years. The Celebrating Dreams event funds scholarships and bursaries for students pursuing careers across the Niagara Region.

$5,000

The Niagara Falls BIA promotes and enhances the area's downtown by working with local business owners, property owners, and other stakeholders to attract shoppers, visitors, and investors and to position Niagara Falls as a destination for tourists and locals.

$20,000

Acquisition of a new refrigeration/freezer for their soup kitchen. In 2020 they served 53,637 meals.

$5,000

Meal Sponsor

May 11th, 2026

The Niagara Falls Community Outreach Program alleviates the pain of hunger by providing nutritious meals free of charge to persons in need, in an atmosphere of dignity, respect, acceptance, and safety.

$5,000

Niagara Jazz Festival

June 29th, 2025

Niagara Jazz Festival is an award-winning not-for-profit music festival dedicated to celebrating jazz and world music throughout the year with a summer festival in June. Niagara Jazz Festival | presented by TD Ready Commitment

$5,000

Niagara Music Awards

June 2, 2024

Niagara Music Awards recognizes and celebrates the achievements of local musicians and industry professionals. This organization fosters a vibrant music scene, encouraging artistic development and community engagement through music.

$5,000

Niagara Nutrition Partners Breakfast Gala

May 27th, 2026

Niagara Nutrition Partners is a not-for-profit founded in 1998 that supports and coordinates student nutrition programs across the Region's elementary and secondary schools, alongside community-based programs.

$5,000

Art at the Pumphouse

August 3, 2024

Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre engages the community in the appreciation and creation of visual arts. Through exhibitions, workshops, and events, it enriches cultural life and supports local artists.

$50,000

Funding installed a new roof on the Education Centre, restoring a teaching space that had been compromised for two years and protecting the safety programs delivered to children across the region.

$5,000

The Niagara SPCA is an animal welfare organization that cares for stray, abandoned, and neglected animals across Niagara County and promotes humane treatment through education, adoption, and advocacy.

$5,000

The Ultimate Summer Kickoff 2025: Celebrating 225 Years

June 7th, 2025

The NOTL Public Library is a team of professional staff and community volunteers providing programs and services that bring people together, foster creativity and encourage lifelong learning.

$5,000

Pelham Art Festival 2025

May 9th, 2025

Beginning its 38th year in 2025, the Pelham Art Festival show and sale is a showcase of original artwork by Canadian fine art artists and artisans.

$18,480

Furnishings at their new location in Fort Erie to be used to enhance their respite and Day Services Programs used by children, youth, and adults.

$5,000

We Step Together

October 18th, 2026

Pink Pearl Canada's We Step Together is a day in October where attendees walk in support of young women facing cancer, exploring local businesses and experiences across Niagara-on-the-Lake.

$19,100

LED lighting equipment for their use as well as the community’s use.

$10,000

Sponsorship to annual Good News Breakfast (December 2021) (fundraiser).

$10,000

Good New Breakfast – title sponsorship.

$10,000

Funding sponsored the BCM Good News Breakfast, a campaign that mobilized Niagara Falls businesses to support low-income families through the December holiday season.

$5,000

Main Street Artisan Market

June 15, 2024

Rose City Kids offers programs and mentorship to children in Welland, aiming to inspire and empower them through educational and recreational activities. Their efforts make a significant difference in the lives of underprivileged children.

$5,000

Hope Floats Challenge

August 15th, 2026

The annual Hope Floats Challenge supports cancer survivors and promotes physical recovery through dragon boat paddling, while raising funds and awareness in an inclusive sports environment.

$10,000

Title sponsorship – BCM Five Bridges Classic. Rowing event in Sept/21 geared to all ages.

$12,000

Funding put a new rowing shell on the water, expanding the club's program for Welland-area students and adults.

$5,000

Sunset Latin Festival

July 25th – 26th, 2026

Sunset Latin Fest celebrates the culture of the Hispanic community with an inclusive event for music, dance, and food, showcasing local and international talent and bringing the Niagara Region exceptional entertainment.

$5,000

TASC Niagara is a charity that works with disabled people in the Niagara region. Since its founding in 1998, they have been committed to discovering new ways for individuals with disabilities to express themselves and develop positive, long-lasting relationships.

$5,000

Hospice Niagara is a non-profit organization that provides compassionate care for individuals and families facing a life-limiting illness, addressing the physical, emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of the end-of-life journey.

The Friends of Fort George | Niagara-on-the-Lake

$5,000

Celebrate Canada Day

July 1st, 2025

The Friends of Niagara National Historic Sites, Inc. (more commonly known as the Friends of Fort George) is a non-profit, cooperating association that was started in 1987. The Friends of Fort George | Niagara-on-the-Lake

$10,000

Funding supported The Hope Centre's work in Welland, attending to basic needs and strengthening community connections for those who rely on the centre.

$5,000

2nd Annual Police vs Fire Softball Charity Classic

August 15th, 2025

VSN is a community-based, non-profit organization made up of over 100 dedicated volunteer crisis responders. VSN provides victims with support, information and referrals at no cost.

$13,441

Funding helped the Wainfleet Agricultural Society purchase a safe stage for Fall Fair indoor entertainment, supporting presentations at the long-running annual community event.

$5,000

The Welland Downtown BIA hosts free family-friendly entertainment in the heart of downtown and partners with Community Food Drives to collect food at each concert for Beyond the Streets Outreach. Last year's series gathered thousands of pounds of food and cash.

$14,000

$5,000

Welland Salsa & Cumbia Festival

August 29th – 30th, 2026

A free, family-friendly celebration of Latin culture featuring live music, dance workshops, and market and food vendors, with opportunities for local entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses to showcase their work.

$5,000

Wellspring Niagara Gala

November 26th, 2026

The Wellspring Niagara Gala is a signature fundraiser bringing 300+ community leaders together to fund free cancer support programs. As Niagara's only cancer support centre, Wellspring offers psychological, emotional, and practical care across the cancer journey.

$10,000

Starry Niagara Gala – Presenting sponsor.

$5,000

Wellspring Niagara serves more than 1,300 patients, caregivers, family members, and bereaved members across the region each year, providing free cancer support programs. With no government funding, fundraising events sustain the organization's work.

$5,000

West Niagara Fair

September 6th-8th, 2024

West Niagara Agricultural Society supports and promotes agriculture through education and events, including the West Niagara Fair. Their efforts highlight the importance of agriculture to the local economy and community.

$5,000

Little Shop of Horrors

May 29th-31st, 2026

The Young Actors Association of Niagara inspires young people across the region to step out of their comfort zone and create theatre, with a programme built on being affordable and accessible for every aspiring artist.

How to Apply

Six steps from application to award.

Applications typically open in early to mid January and stay open for about three weeks. Each submission is reviewed by the BCM Grant Committee and evaluated on community impact, organizational mission, and alignment with our core pillars.

Review Application Criteria

Confirm your organization aligns with BCM's mission and funding priorities. Selection is based on community impact, feasibility, demonstrated need, and connection to our core pillars.

Application Criteria

What the committee looks for.

Each application is scored across 10 criteria. Understanding these priorities helps you prepare the strongest possible submission.

Download Criteria PDF

Type of Organization

Eligible organizations must be registered charities or nonprofits in Canada with an annual operating budget under $2.5 million.

Geographic Location

Your organization must operate within the Niagara Region or Haldimand County, the communities served by BCM policyholders.

Nature of Event or Initiative

Grants support trade shows, charity events, fundraisers, and community initiatives. Capital asset funding (land, property, equipment) is excluded.

Alignment with Core Pillars

Your project must connect to at least one pillar: Environment and Sustainability, Literacy and Education, Health and Wellbeing, or Community and Growth.

Proven Effectiveness

Demonstrate a track record of successful program delivery and measurable positive impact in the community you serve.

Community Contribution

Your project should foster livable, workable, and sustainable communities, contributing meaningfully to quality of life in the region.

Financial Need and Utilization

Provide a transparent justification for funding with a detailed plan showing how grant dollars will be allocated.

Past Recipient Eligibility

Previous grant recipients are welcome to reapply, though priority is given to organizations applying for the first time.

Reporting and Accountability

Grant recipients must provide a thorough report on how funds were allocated and the impact the project achieved in the community.

Timely Fund Utilization

All granted funds must be allocated and utilized within the same calendar year they are received.

Guidelines

Tips for a strong application.

A well-prepared application demonstrates your organization's capacity and commitment. These guidelines will help you put your best foot forward.

The BCM Grant Committee reviews every application carefully. Organizations that follow these recommendations stand out because they show clear planning, demonstrated community need, and the ability to deliver on their promises.

Download Guidelines PDF

Understand the program

Review BCM's mission, core pillars, and funding priorities before you begin. Alignment matters.

Meet every requirement

Read the full application guidelines and ensure you satisfy each criterion. Incomplete submissions aren't considered.

Plan and budget carefully

Include an accurate budget with clear revenue sources. Show the committee you have a realistic financial plan.

Articulate clear goals

Define your project's objectives and explain specifically how it will benefit the community you serve.

Demonstrate community need

Support your case with research, data, or testimonials that show why this project matters right now.

Provide a clear timeline

A detailed implementation schedule demonstrates your organization's capacity and readiness to deliver.

Show community support

Letters of support from community members, businesses, or partner organizations strengthen your application.

Present professionally

A well-written, organized application signals that your organization has the capacity to execute the project successfully.

Eligibility

Who can apply

The Community Grants Program is open to registered charities and nonprofit organizations in Canada with an annual operating budget under $2.5 million.

Your organization must operate within the Niagara Region or Haldimand County. Grants support specific events, programs, and community initiatives that create measurable impact. Capital asset funding (land, property, equipment) is excluded.

The BCM Grant Committee evaluates each application based on the organization's mission, the reach and sustainability of the proposed initiative, and alignment with BCM's values of trust, kindness, service, and professionalism. Submission volume may exceed available funding, so a complete application doesn't guarantee a grant.

Registered charity or nonprofit in Canada

Annual operating budget under $2.5 million

Operating within Niagara Region or Haldimand County

Supporting a specific event, program, or initiative

Aligned with at least one core pillar

Demonstrable positive impact on the local community

Funds utilized within the calendar year of receipt

Past grant recipients are welcome to reapply. Priority is given to first-time applicants when submission volume exceeds available funding.

Your premiums help build a better community.

Learn more about what being a mutual means, or get in touch to discuss how your organization can apply.

Get in Touch The Mutual Difference

Insurance

Why BCM

Community

Community Grants Program

Investing in the place you call home.

Why We Give

No shareholders means the community gets the return.

Investing in Niagara

Seven years of giving back.

What We Fund

Grants support the people and causes that strengthen our communities.

Food Security

Youth and Family Services

Arts and Culture

Health and Wellness

Community Safety

Environment and Agriculture

Grant Recipients

The organizations making Niagara stronger.

Autism Niagara

Autism Ontario – Niagara Chapter

Baby’s Breath Canada

Beamsville BIA

Carousel Players

Community Crew

Community Crew

Community Crew

Community Crew

Downtown Bench Beamsville

Downtown Welland BIA

Facebook

FACS Foundation

FACS Niagara

Food 4 Kids Niagara

GAMRU

GAMRU South Shore Search & Rescue

Gillian’s Place

GNCC Women in Business Awards

Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Grimsby Public Library

Heart Niagara

Heartland Forest Nature Experience

Horse Cents for Kids

Horse Cents for Kids

Hospice Niagara

Jarvis Board of Trade

Join the Caledonia Fair

Kristen French

Kristen French Child Advocacy Center

Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre

Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre

Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre Niagara

Learning Disabilities Association of Niagara

Links for a Greener Learning

Links for Greener Learning-Food insecurity-workshops

Music Niagara

Neuro-Collective

Niagara College

Niagara Falls BIA

Niagara Falls Community Soup Kitchen

Niagara Falls Soup Kitchen

Niagara Jazz Festival | presented by TD Ready Commitment

Niagara Music Awards

Niagara Nutrition Partners

Niagara Pumphouse

Niagara Safety Village

Niagara SPCA

Niagara-on-the-Lake Public Library

Pelham Art Festival

Person Centred Care

Pink Pearl Canada

Port Colborne Operatic Society

Project Share

Project Share

Project Share

Rose City Kids

South Niagara Canoe Club

South Niagara Rowing Club

South Niagara Rowing Club

Sunset Latin Fest