Plan Ahead to Maximize Grant Funding

You have to spend money to make money. It’s an old business adage, but it is equally true for municipalities – especially when it comes to winning big grants.

Carleton Place Chief Administrative Officer Diane Smithson says investing in master plans has directly led to tens of millions of dollars in successful grant applications for the small eastern Ontario town of about 13,000 people.

Why Master Plans matter

Carleton Place has invested in detailed master plans across services areas like transportation, active transportation, water and wastewater, and recreation.

While a master plan involves upfront investment in staff time and consulting resources, having this information is invaluable. The plan demonstrates how a project is aligned with a long-term strategy and is validated by a third-party. This information can be used to support grant opportunities as they arise. As well, grant applications are easier to complete because the master plan readily contains the information needed.

Diane notes that master plans also help drive sound, fact-based Council decision-making – rather reacting to residents who lobby the hardest. It also helps council members address those requests and concerns constructively. 

Councils support success

It’s true that elected officials tend to favour more visible investments. Although Master Plans are developed behind the scenes, they will eventually lead to meaningful impacts and improvements. Grant funding reduces the taxpayer burden and helps complete important, large-scale projects. Ultimately, Council sees the value of these initiatives – and so does the community. 

Tips for success

• Foster a culture where people are always looking for grant opportunities. “Apply for every grant,” says Diane.
• Be aware of context – election cycles for example or other trends can impact grant opportunities. Similarly, depending on the fund, guidelines and eligibility can vary. Hunt for alignment with your master plans. 
• Be strategic with grant funds you receive. Governments often pay out grants in instalments, and you may not spend all of it right away. For example, the Canada Community Building Fund (CCBF) is paid out twice per year and municipalities (especially smaller ones) will save up the grant for bigger projects. It is important to invest these funds to maximize their future value.  

ONE Investment offers municipalities both long- and short-term investment opportunities. Contact us to learn more.