Community groups focused on building connections and celebrating culture in Saint John now have access to financial support. The City of Saint John has officially opened applications for the 2026 Ethnocultural Small Grant Program.

This initiative aligns with the City’s goal to foster one of the most welcoming communities in Canada. The grants provide resources to help groups establish themselves, expand their reach, and strengthen a sense of belonging for residents across the city.

Funding Streams Available

The program offers two distinct categories of funding, depending on the maturity and status of the organization:

• Ethnocultural Establishment Grant (Up to $1,000): This stream targets new or emerging ethnocultural groups. The funds or in-kind support help these groups formally establish themselves as not-for-profit organizations.
• Ethnocultural Awareness Grant (Up to $2,500): This stream supports incorporated not-for-profit ethnocultural organizations. These funds help groups increase their visibility and connect with new members and the wider community.

Application Deadlines and Review Cycles

The City will accept applications until August 31, 2026. Staff will review submissions in two scheduled cycles:

• Cycle 1: Covers applications received from January to April, with reviews taking place in May.
• Cycle 2: Covers applications received from May to August, with reviews taking place in September.

Organizations that received an Ethnocultural Grant previously must submit their Outcome Report by January 31 before applying for new funding.

How to Apply

You can submit applications online through the City of Saint John website, where you will also find the full program policy and guidelines. If you prefer a physical copy, you can submit printed applications at the ONE STOP Customer Service Desk located at City Hall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the Establishment Grant?
New or emerging ethnocultural groups seeking to become formally established as not-for-profit organizations are eligible for up to $1,000.

Who is eligible for the Awareness Grant?
Incorporated not-for-profit ethnocultural organizations looking to increase visibility and membership can apply for up to $2,500.

When is the final deadline to apply?
The application window closes on August 31, 2026.

Where can I get more information?
You can access full guidelines on the City’s website or contact the program administrators at immigration@saintjohn.ca.