Community Interaction Program — Restoration and/or protection of biodiversity

📋 Eligible Entities - Non-profit organizations registered in Canada - Conservation organizations focused on environmental protection - Indigenous communities and Indigenous-led organizations - Municipal governments and regional authorities - Educational institutions (colleges and universities) - Private businesses with demonstrated environmental/conservation focus - Community groups with legal registration status - Partnerships between eligible entities (co-applicants permitted) Note: Applicants must have a proven track record or demonstrated capacity to execute environmental restoration projects. --- ### 💰 Funding Details - Maximum Grant Amount: $200,000 per project - Grant Type: Non-repayable contribution (grant, not loan) - Matching Requirements: Typically requires cost-sharing; verify specific matching ratio (often 25-50% from applicant or partners) - Funding Coverage: Up to 100% of eligible expenses in some cases; depends on applicant type and project scope - Payment Structure: Funding disbursed upon approval and milestone achievement; typically installment-based - No repayment obligation upon successful project completion --- ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Land restoration and rehabilitation activities - Invasive species removal and control - Native plant propagation, planting, and establishment - Habitat creation or enhancement for wildlife - Water quality improvement infrastructure - Riparian buffer zone establishment - Wetland restoration and protection - Environmental monitoring and assessment - Project planning, design, and permitting costs - Equipment purchase (directly tied to restoration work) - Professional consulting services (environmental assessments, engineering) - Training and capacity building for staff/volunteers - Signage and public education materials --- ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Project Location: Restricted to the St. Lawrence ecosystem region - Environmental Alignment: Project must demonstrate clear biodiversity conservation and/or water quality improvement outcomes - Specific Environmental Issue: Application must identify and address a concrete, documented environmental problem - Timeline: Projects typically must be completed within 2-3 years (verify exact deadline in guidelines) - Reporting Requirements: - Progress reports at defined milestones - Final project report with outcomes and impact metrics