The CIF provides grants and loans to execute projects that will increase the effectiveness and efficiency of municipal Blue Box recycling programs in Ontario. This is accomplished by funding projects that have been identified as priorities for the CIF as reflected in the CIF’s strategic plan and annual operating plan.
CIF funding support typically falls into three categories:
Funding for activities identified by the CIF – “Conditional Funding Offers”
The REOI frequently offers funding opportunities (up to a pre-set value) for specific activities determined by the CIF that respond to a priority expressed in its annual Operations Plan. An example include offers to fund waste composition studies.
Funding for projects proposed by an individual or group of municipalities – “Project Proposals”
Broad funding priorities are established by the CIF annually to which individual municipalities or groups of municipalities can submit applications. The scope of work is normally determined by the proponent and often includes high-value projects with definable payback periods. An example would be a collective benefit project with a payback period of less than five years.
Collective Benefit initiatives
Collective Benefit initiatives include applications for demonstration projects and studies that are of broad benefit to multiple municipalities and groups such as a project that identifies better practices.
The CIF does not fund:
- Projects, or parts of projects, unrelated to the Blue Box program in Ontario
- Non-Blue Box diversion initiatives (e.g., composting) or waste disposal projects
- Retroactively (i.e., projects that have already been started prior to an application being received by the CIF)
- Ongoing operating costs or routine maintenance activities
To be considered, applications must demonstrate a direct benefit to an Ontario municipality’s Blue Box program and have the program’s support or demonstrate a direct benefit to the provincial Blue Box recycling system.
How do you apply for CIF funding?
The CIF accepts applications for funding through a Request for Expressions of Interest (REOI) process. The REOI includes the types of projects and initiatives eligible for funding based on the CIF’s budget for that calendar year.