For more than six decades, the Weston Family Foundation has supported projects across Canada that contribute to a vibrant and resilient country. These special projects address a wide range of needs in both urban and rural communities, including initiatives in arts, culture, and heritage, as well as community-based programs that enhance the well-being of Canadians.
The Foundation’s Board of Directors initiates all special project grants, and unsolicited proposals are not accepted. For funding opportunities in our two focus areas, please visit the Grant Calls page or follow us on LinkedIn.
Homegrown Innovation Challenge
Supply chain disruptions – leading to acute fears of empty shelves – currency fluctuations, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the impact of climate change on global food production exposed the many vulnerabilities of Canada’s import-reliant food system. In response, the Weston Family Foundation launched the Homegrown Innovation Challenge, a $33 million funding initiative designed to strengthen domestic food production and resilience.
The Challenge supports innovators developing sustainable, cost-effective, and scalable solutions to enable Canadian producers to grow berries out of season. Through the Spark, Shepherd, and Scaling phases, participating teams receive grant funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to advance their ideas from concept to market.
Learn more about the Challenge and the four finalist Scaling teams through the Homegrown Innovation Challenge website.
Featured Special Projects
