If you’ve been actively searching for grants in February and April and feeling like everything you’re coming across is closed, you’re not alone. These early months are typically quiet across Canada, with many major programs either closed, between cycles, or not reopening until late spring.

Rather than forcing a list of limited or unreliable opportunities, we’re using this edition to focus on what actually helps most businesses and organizations right now: getting grant-ready.

We’ll be back in May 2026 with our regular, full grants roundup when more programs reliably reopen.

In the meantime, here are 5 ways you can use this slower period strategically!

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1. Build a reusable “core application” document

Most grants ask for the same fundamentals, just framed differently. Prepare one internal document that includes:

• A clear description of what you do and who you serve
• The problem you’re addressing and why it matters now
• Your solution and how it’s different
• A short outcomes section with real results or indicators
• A plain-language budget explanation

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2. Get your numbers clean and simple

You don’t need perfect accounting, but you do need clarity. Make sure you can easily answer:

• Last 12 months of revenue and expenses
• Current cash position
• Expected costs for the project you’d seek funding for
• Any other funding sources or revenue tied to that work

Grant reviewers care less about polish and more about whether your numbers make sense.

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3. Prepare a standard project budget template

Budgets slow applications down more than almost anything else. Create a simple template you can reuse that includes:

• Staff or contractor time
• Materials or supplies
• Program delivery costs
• Admin or overhead (if allowed)

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4. Gather proof before you need it

Most applications ask for some form of validation. Use this time to collect:

• 2–3 short testimonials from clients, partners, or participants
• Basic impact metrics or outcomes
• Any press, partnerships, or letters of support

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5. Use quiet months for relationship building

Many grants require or strongly favour partnerships. This is a great time to:

• Reconnect with past collaborators
• Reach out to potential partners for future projects
• Have informal conversations before you need a formal letter

What’s Next

If you’re feeling motivated to submit funding applications early in the year but frustrated by how few opportunities are open right now, that’s completely understandable. While this period can feel slow, it’s far from wasted. The work you do now often makes the difference when major grant programs open in the summer and fall.

If you need help with bookkeeping, compliance, or getting your finances grant-ready, we’re here to support you.

📍Book a demo with us anytime

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