Maytree believes that when human rights are protected, individuals and communities experience less poverty and we create a society that is inclusive, equitable, and prosperous. The most enduring way to keep people out of poverty is to reimagine and rebuild our public systems to respect, protect, and fulfill the economic and social rights of every person in Canada. We believe that everyone can and should have a role in this process and in building and strengthening the communities where they live.  

We take a relationship-based approach to our granting. This helps us better understand the ideas and plans of groups, and strengthen connections with the people who are leading the work. 

Who may apply?  

We welcome proposals from registered charities and community-based, non-profit organizations that have an explicit mandate to reduce poverty and build strong civic communities by advancing economic and social rights in Canada.  

What do we fund?  

We seek proposals that impact systemic change and work towards one or more of the following goals and outcomes:  

1. Develop and promote policy ideas that address systemic causes of poverty and safeguard social and economic rights in the Canadian context.  
2. Develop leadership and skills capacity among civil society and people with lived experience of poverty to participate in the development of processes, policies, and systemic solutions to poverty, and advance economic and social rights.  
3. Strengthen the connections among civic communities, people with lived experience, and institutions to advance systemic solutions to poverty and build a culture of rights.  
4. Support youth to realize their social and economic rights, particularly their right to education, housing, and work.  

Maytree’s funding is focused on the Greater Toronto Area, but funding requests with the potential for broader scope, impact, and learning from across Canada are welcome.  

Applicant organizations should also support decent work conditions and promote human rights in their workplace.  

We do not fund:  

• General fundraising campaigns  
• Deficit-reduction  
• Equipment purchases  
• Building or renovation costs  
• Capital campaigns or endowments  
• Partisan political activities  
• Religious activities  
• Conferences and workshops  
• Programs and services which are part of the government’s mandate  

How to apply.