National Literacy Program - Grants and Contributions

Program Description
How does it work?
Who can apply?
How do I apply?

Program Description

Type of Program

Mostly through grants although some contributions are available.

Program Objective

The National Literacy Program‘s role is to support work which:

To improve access to literacy programs for all Canadians in every region of the country;
To improve coordination and information sharing among the many partners of literacy;
To increase public awareness of the importance of literacy; and
To advance literacy research and develop learning materials.

Who can apply?

Who is Eligible for Funding

Non-profit organizations operating at the national, provincial, regional, community or neighbourhood level;
Non-governmental institutions such as teacher's federations, labour unions, trade associations and professional associations; and
Canadian post-secondary institutions such as universities, colleges, and vocational and technical institutes.

How To Apply

The National Literacy Program has two funding streams:

1.The Federal-Provincial/Territorial Funding Stream

The National Literacy Program has established partnerships with provincial and territorial governments to provide financial support for literacy activities.
Provincial, territorial, regional and local organizations should consult their provincial/ territorial government office as arrangements with each province and territory vary with regards to deadlines, application forms, and assessment procedures.

2. The National Funding Stream

The following types of organizations should contact the National Literacy Secretariat directly:
National non-government organizations;
National literacy organizations;
Provincial and territorial literacy coalitions; and
Labour organizations.

A General Application Form and a Guide to the Funding Application Form will be sent to prospective program applicants.

How does it work?

Duration

Projects are generally approved for a 52-week period, but also may be multi-year.

Financial Parameters

Human Resources Development Canada will not fund the total cost of the project. A budget containing all project expenditures and revenues must be included in the proposal. Proposals must:

demonstrate that the project does not duplicate existing efforts;
indicate other sources of financial and 'in kind' support for the project;
include an evaluation plan for the project; and
make provisions for the distribution or availability of reports or other products arising from the project.

Activities and costs not eligible for funding include:

ongoing direct literacy services;
activities which have already taken place;
ongoing activities;
projects requiring 100% funding;
capital costs;
travel outside Canada; and
financial losses incurred by the project.

The submission of a final report and financial statement is required no later than two months following the completion of the project

For more information, please write or telephone the NLS at:

National Literacy Secretariat
Learning & Literacy Directorate
Human Resources Development Canada
Constitution Square
360 Albert Street, Suite 1510 15th Floor
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0J9
Telephone: (613) 946-1388
E-mail: National Literacy Secretariat