We provide resources to Canadian charities so they can hire skilled government relations professionals to engage with Ottawa and other levels of government on important climate and environmental issues.
ABOUT THE PUBLIC VOICE FUND
Amplifying voices that often go unheard
The Public Voice Fund is a project of Small Change Fund with support from philanthropic foundations including the Trottier Family Foundation, the Metcalf Foundation and the Echo Foundation.
We are pleased to announce that in 2026, the Public Voice Fund will be awarding up to 11 grants, each with a maximum value of $40,000, to support Canadian charities and qualified donees in their work to advance climate and conservation policy through government relations. For more details on eligibility and the application process, please refer to the FAQs below.
frequently asked questions
What does the Public Voice Fund do?
The Public Voice Fund provides funding to Canadian environmental organizations so they can hire skilled government relations professionals to influence decision-makers.
Who is eligible?
Only registered Canadian charities and Qualified Donees are eligible to apply.
What levels of government can be engaged?
The fund applies to engaging the federal, provincial and territorial governments, not municipal governments.
What subject areas are covered?
The funding is to be used for external experts to engage in a law, regulation, policy, or financial issue in one of the two subject areas:
1. Innovative responses, insights and measures that mitigate climate change and achieve GHG emission reductions in sectors such as energy, transportation, industry, buildings, and others.
2. Natural climate solutions that take an integrated approach to benefit biodiversity, sustain livelihoods, and mitigate climate change.
What is the maximum grant amount?
Grants of up to $40,000 are available starting January 1, 2026.
Which expenses are eligible for funding under the Public Voice Fund?
The majority of the funding must be allocated directly to the external GR expert for their work on this project. However, if additional resources are needed, a small portion of the funds may be used to cover administrative costs. If this is the case, please specify the grant allocation and outline the intended purposes for these administrative expenses.
When is the deadline?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis in advance of our quarterly decision meetings. Once an application is submitted, a decision is typically made within 6-8 weeks.
For 2026, the application deadlines are:
- November 17, 2026
- May 26, 2026
- August 25, 2026
How do you apply?
To apply to the Public Voice Fund, please submit a completed application form along with a proposal from your chosen government relations expert to info@publicvoicefund.ca. The Advisory Committee will review your submission and determine whether you will receive a grant.
Who is Small Change Fund?
Small Change Fund is the registered charity where individuals and grassroots groups get crowdfunding help, expert campaign advice, and coaching to turn their good intentions into great results. We act as a catalyst to help people improve the environment, reduce poverty, and promote reconciliation efforts by working with Indigenous Peoples to support the protection of their lands, waters and communities.
Learn more about us at smallchangefund.ca
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