The Age-friendly Communities Grant program provides funding for projects and planning initiatives that help older Nova Scotians stay active, healthy, and engaged in their communities. The program supports work that ensures older adults remain socially connected, supports their quality of life, and fosters diverse and engaged communities.

The program offers two distinct grant types: Project Grants (up to $20,000) that directly support activities benefiting older adults, and Planning Grants (up to $25,000) that help communities understand needs and develop solutions for aging populations.

Affordability, accessibility, inclusion, and engagement with culturally diverse and traditionally marginalized communities are key considerations for all funded projects.

Grant Types

Project Grants: Support projects that help older Nova Scotians stay active, healthy, and engaged in their communities. Most projects receive up to $10,000. Large-scale, in-depth, or provincial initiatives can receive up to $20,000. Applications requesting $10,000 or more must provide a project plan and identify partner organizations.

Planning Grants: Support work to understand the needs and priorities in communities to support aging Nova Scotians. Must be in partnership with local government and include consultation, collaboration, and engagement with older adults and community stakeholders. Funding available up to $25,000 with a minimum 10% contribution (cash or in-kind) required.

Project Grant Focus Areas

Intergenerational Activity: Projects that bring older adults and younger people together to build relationships, socialize, share skills, stories, and experiences.

Physical Activity: Projects that help older adults stay active through a mix of balance, strength (resistance), and functional exercises. Programs support physical health and independence.

Nutrition and Healthy Eating: Projects that support healthy eating for older adults, including meal planning, cooking classes, grocery store tours, or programs that improve access to healthy food.

Building Digital Skills: Projects that help older adults build confidence and skills using technology, including learning to use smartphones, computers, social media, video calls, or health apps to stay connected and safe.

Transportation: Projects that improve access to transportation for older adults, especially in rural or underserved areas, helping them get to programs, services, or activities in their community.

Planning Grant Focus Areas

Understand Community Needs: Assess local resources, services, and gaps related to aging. Information gathered should help inform future planning and improvement of community programs and services.

Develop Solutions: Explore innovative approaches to support older adults living at home, with a focus on sustainability and equity.

Enable Participation: Create and improve initiatives that help older adults remain engaged, connected, and active in their communities.