Connect2 Grant Analysis ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Municipal governments and regional authorities - Indigenous communities and First Nations - Not-for-profit organizations with active transportation mandates - Public institutions (schools, universities, hospitals) - Transit authorities and transportation agencies - Community-based organizations focused on accessibility and mobility - Regional districts and metropolitan planning organizations ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Coverage: Up to 75% of eligible project costs - Funding Structure: Non-repayable grant (not a loan) - Matching Requirement: Minimum 25% cost-sharing from applicant or partner organizations - Grant Size: Varies by project scale and scope (specific maximum limits depend on program intake) - Cost-Share Options: Cash contributions, in-kind services, volunteer labor, or partner funding may qualify toward the 25% requirement ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Infrastructure development for walking paths and pedestrian networks - Cycling infrastructure (bike lanes, trails, parking facilities, repair stations) - Wheeling infrastructure (accessible routes for mobility devices, wheelchairs, scooters) - Accessibility improvements (curb cuts, ramps, lighting, wayfinding signage) - Safety enhancements (traffic calming measures, intersection improvements) - Connectivity projects linking community hubs, transit, schools, and services - Design, engineering, and planning studies for active transportation networks - Community engagement and education programs ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Projects must demonstrably increase active transportation connectedness and accessibility - Environmental outcomes (carbon emission reductions) must be quantifiable - Quality of life improvements must be documented - Applicants must secure matching funds (25% minimum) before funding release - Projects must comply with municipal zoning, safety, and accessibility standards - Reporting requirements on usage metrics, ridership data, and environmental impact - Completion timeline expectations and milestone-based fund disbursement - Projects must prioritize underserved or vulnerable communities where applicable - Ongoing maintenance plans must be established before project completion