Region of Waterloo announces 2026 recipients of the Upstream Fund
Waterloo Region – The Region of Waterloo is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 Upstream Fund and Community Capacity Building Fund. Nearly $3 million will be allocated to support 42 community and grassroots organizations focused on fostering a safer and more inclusive Waterloo Region.
This funding cycle, applicants were encouraged to submit collaborative applications and prioritize partnerships. 11 collaborative initiatives were successfully funded as a result.
“We are proud to support so many incredible, local organizations creating change in our community,” said Regional Chair, Karen Redman. “By investing in these initiatives, we are building a Waterloo Region where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
This year, more than 100 applications were received, with requests totaling close to $13 million. Applications were carefully reviewed to ensure this cohort reflects the diversity of our community, needs across geographic areas with initiatives focused on rural communities, and a range of initiatives support Waterloo Region residents across the lifespan, including both youth and older adults.
Beginning this funding cycle, Upstream-funded organizations will have access to a new partnership with the University of Waterloo’s Co-operative and Experiential Education team. University of Waterloo students will partner with organizations to deliver short-term, AI-enabled projects to build organizational capacity, address challenges, and explore how evolving technologies can support their mission to create a positive community impact.
This partnership offers a unique opportunity to pair financial investment with skilled talent, helping organizations increase their impact, while giving university students meaningful, hands-on experience applying their skills and gaining a deeper understanding of important work happening across the region.
About the Upstream Fund
The Upstream Fund supports community-led initiatives across Waterloo Region. Funding is distributed with the transformational intent of shifting power and resources to the community.
Funded initiatives include work that supports priorities identified in Waterloo Region’s Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan, including creating safe and inclusive spaces, addressing mental health and addictions, combatting hate, and addressing gender-based violence.
