Toronto – August 4, 2026 – Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 UFCW Canada Equity Grant Program, offering UFCW Canada members and community allies an opportunity to receive funding for projects that promote equity, inclusion, human rights, and stronger communities.

The annual program builds on UFCW Canada’s longstanding commitment to supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference both in workplaces and across Canada. This year, up to three Equity Grants valued at $1,000 each will be awarded to help bring impactful community projects to life during 2026 and 2027.

Applicants can apply under one of three funding streams: Newcomer and Immigration, Human Rights, or Community Action. To be considered, applicants must submit either a 250-word project description or a short video outlining how they would use the grant to support their initiative. The application deadline is October 30, 2026.

The program continues to build on a strong legacy of supporting grassroots projects that create positive change. In 2025, Equity Grants helped fund the May 5 Red Dress Initiative led by Gwenn Brake (UFCW Local 864), Sui Kwong Yau’s Bridging Canadian and Chinese Cultures in Brandon project (UFCW Local 832), and the Squamish Welcome Centre in British Columbia.

Over the years, the Equity Grant Program has also supported organizations and initiatives including Casa Cultural Ecuatoriana, the Afro-Caribbean Association of Manitoba Community Job Fair, the Pamir Canadian Multiculturalism Council, McMaster Hope, Rivercity Neurocast, Bridging the Generational Gap, and the Citizens on Patrol Program – Steinbach Chapter.

The online application for the 2026 Equity Grant is now available.

Please note that the Equity Grant Program supports community-based initiatives and is not intended to fund individual educational pursuits. Applications involving projects with timelines before the October 30 deadline may be considered earlier at UFCW Canada’s discretion.