Contributions Program for Consumer and Voluntary Organizations

Eligibility Criteria

Deadline

2006-12-01

Summary

The purpose of Research Project Contributions is to improve the capacity of consumer organizations to represent the interests of consumers in the decision making process through sound research and analysis. Project Contributions are intended to assist consumer and voluntary organizations to undertake projects that address important consumer issues of concern to a large number of Canadians. Projects considered involve:

• the protection of the consumer interest in the marketplace;
• strengthening the consumer movement in Canada; or
• improving understanding of evolving consumer behaviours and attitudes, particularly in response to rapidly changing markets, for example, as a result of the emergence of new technologies or globalization.

Issues addressed must be national in scope, however, provincial issues can be addressed as long as the aim is greater harmonization of consumer legislation across Canada.

Two types of funding are available under Development Project Contributions: Organizational Development and Consumer Movement Development.

Organizational Development Contributions aim to strengthen an organization's capacity to diversify revenue sources and increase its level of self-sufficiency.  Projects may include preparation of business plans, feasibility studies and market analyses, or pilot projects for developing and producing products or services with the potential to generate long term revenues for the organization, or increase visibility and membership base.

Consumer Movement Development Contributions aim to strengthen organizations' capacity to work collaboratively in the interest of Canadian consumers by developing joint plans and initiatives in the areas of policy research, analysis and development; by creating and implementing action plans to address issues of national concern; by making concerted international representations; and by establishing joint communication initiatives with the public, with government, and with industry.

The Guide and forms are also available on the Office of Consumer Affairs Web site.

*Note: "non-profit" also known as nonprofit organizations, non profit organizations, not-for-profit organizations, voluntary organizations and volunteer organizations.

Nova Scotia Contact(s):
See National Contact.