NCC’s Community Energy Micro-Grant Program now available!
The Community Energy Micro-Grant Program will support NunatuKavut communities and organizations in exploring clean energy and sustainability options. This program is being managed by our Research, Education and Culture Department (REC), through Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative (IODI) Phase 3 funding provided by Natural Resources Canada.
Across NunatuKavut, energy security/insecurity greatly impacts the quality of life for NunatuKavut Inuit. Energy efficiency initiatives that leave sustainable impacts and support energy education and awareness within NunatuKavut is a key focus for NCC. As such, NCC has been actively involved in clean energy research as a part of a larger community sustainable research project. Findings from this work highlights specific energy needs across our communities. REC would like to offer small grant options for local governance structures (municipalities or local service districts) and organizations as a pilot to encourage community leaders to think of clean energy options for the needs and priorities of their communities.
All projects or initiatives must:
- Demonstrate how it targets the needs of NunatuKavut Inuit and communities
- Enhance education in your community around cleaner energy options and use
- Address a sustainability need (economic, environmental, or societal) which may help build the foundation necessary to pursue future sustainable energy initiatives (e.g. telecommunications infrastructure, meeting spaces, etc.)
Application Deadline
October 31, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. ADT
Eligible Applicants
- Local governance structures (municipality or local service district)
- Non-profit or community groups in NunatuKavut
Funding
A one-time grant of $5,000 is available.
Larger proposals (up to $20,000) will also be accepted and may be considered based on the availability of funding. In most cases, these proposals may only be partially funded (i.e., up to $5,000).
Eligible Expenses
Grants must be used for expenses related to clean energy additions or retrofits in your organization. This includes:
- Clean energy sources such as solar or wind equipment
- High efficiency electrical equipment or appliances used in community buildings i.e.) lightbulbs, refrigerators, heat sources, etc.
- Insulation, windows, doors that meet requirements for energy efficiency
- Meeting other sustainability needs which may enable future clean energy initiatives (a clear link must be described in your application)
Expenses can include a contribution toward a higher cost item/system or multiple expenses relating to equipment required for overall clean energy upgrades to existing structures. Costs will be reimbursed from April 1, 2022 to October 31, 2022. Funds can be issued as a reimbursement for expenses already incurred or used for a new purchase. Proof of purchase will be required with each application.
Application Process
Please submit completed applications by email to Siobhan Slade, Community Energy Coordinator, at sslade@nunatukavut.ca with the subject line “Community Energy Micro Grant Application.”
For more information on this program, please contact Siobhan at (709) 939-2324.