MEDIA RELEASE 

CUA’s $100,000 Grant Program Returns for 2025

Applications open across Nova Scotia until January 31^st  

Halifax, N.S. – Applications are now being accepted for CUA’s 2025 Community Investment Grant Program. With $100,000 available, small businesses, non-profits, community groups and leaders across Nova Scotia are encouraged to apply.  

To date, the Program has awarded grants to 135 local businesses, initiatives, and organizations across Nova Scotia. For 2025, funds will be allocated in five categories:

1. Small Business ($30,000): Supports small businesses and social enterprises with a strategic investment to be used for new equipment, upgraded technology, improved operational design or implementation of initiatives that promote sustainability and positive environmental impacts.

2. Community ($25,000): For non-profit organizations and community associations to make a one-time investment to enhance their impact on clients and communities.    

3. Health, Wellness and Recreation ($15,000): Supports programs or initiatives in the areas of financial health, mental health, food security, sport or physical fitness.

4. Sustainability ($15,000): Supports programs or initiatives that promote positive environmental impacts and sustainability efforts with a measurable impact on the environment, ecosystem and biodiversity.

5. Arts and Culture ($15,000): For small businesses, non-profits and community organizations preserving or promoting elements of heritage or artistic expression.

The Grant Program has evolved significantly since its inception in 2015. Over the past ten years, it has expanded both geographically and financially, with greater levels of funding provided to initiatives across the entire Province. To date, the Program has awarded $550,000 in funding to 135 recipients, selected from more than 2,270 applications.

“These investments are incredibly valuable to each of the recipients,” explains Marie Mullally, CUA’s President and CEO. “While the money is an important factor, it’s often the vote of confidence that says, ‘we believe in you and what you’re doing’ that matters most.”

Mandy Chapman, Executive Director of the Mobile Food Market describes how easy it was to apply for a grant to purchase new display refrigerators to improve their food safety measures. “The application process was clear and straightforward, allowing us to effectively communicate our needs. CUA is a great proponent and advocate for community work, and if they believe in the idea as much as you do, you’re very likely to be a successful candidate.”

Applications can be submitted online at cua.com/grants and will be accepted until 4:00p.m. AST on January 31, 2025.

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