Momentum Fund

The Desjardins Momentum Fund is a national initiative that offers non-repayable grants of up to $20,000 to help individuals and organizations carry out personal, professional, or community development projects that support financial independence, social inclusion, and employment.
  • Desjardins
Overview of the Momentum Fund program:

Administered by Desjardins Group, the Momentum Fund is designed to empower individuals who face financial or social challenges by supporting projects that promote self-sufficiency, entrepreneurship, skills training, or workforce reintegration. The fund also supports organizations and community initiatives aimed at reducing exclusion and increasing access to economic opportunities. Applications must be submitted through a community partner organization such as a nonprofit, educational institution, employment support agency, or cooperative. These partners play a key role in helping applicants develop proposals and submit them to Desjardins for review.

Benefits of the Momentum Fund program:
  • Up to $20,000 CAD per individual or project
  • Provides flexible, meaningful financial support for life-changing projects
  • Designed for individuals and communities who face economic or social exclusion
  • Encourages:
    • Entrepreneurship and self-employment
    • Skills development and training
    • Return to work initiatives
    • Inclusion and diversity in the workforce
  • Delivered through community partnerships to ensure projects are relevant and supported
  • No repayment, no interest, and no credit checks required
Eligibility criteria of the Momentum Fund program:
  • Eligible Applicants Must:
  • Be residents of Canada (all provinces and territories now appear eligible)
  • Be referred by a community partner organization
  • Face barriers such as:
    • Low income
    • Unemployment
    • Newcomer status
    • Disability
    • Racial or social marginalization
    • Lack of access to traditional credit or training
  • Present a project that enhances:
    • Employment readiness
    • Business viability
    • Educational attainment
    • Financial independence
  • Eligible Project Types Include:
  • Small business startup or recovery
  • Job training or credentialing
  • Equipment or supplies for work
  • Community programming to support economic inclusion
  • Bridging services like transit or daycare for working parents
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