By Emily Stonehouse

The Haliburton County Development Corporation (HCDC) officially opened their applications for their Local Initiatives Program (LIP) on Jan. 30. “This is a really special program,” said Heather Reid, program & operations coordinator for HCDC, “because it’s an opportunity for organizations to try something for the very first time, and just see if it works.” 

HCDC distributes between $40,000 and $100,000 annually through the LIP program, with a focus on not-for-profits. The criteria for the program is broad, and according to HCDC, applications must encompass the following points:

Contribute to the resiliency and vibrancy of the community;

Are incremental (incremental is defined as a new initiative, enhance existing activities, in addition to existing activities);

Involve not-for-profit organizations that strive to enhance the community economic development efforts of the community;

Address the strategic priorities of the Haliburton County Development Corporation;

Guarantee that the funding will not create a dependency on the corporation;

Not produce market disruption.

The LIP has been available through HCDC since 2015, and made possible by transferring from their investment fund and applying it back into the community interest earned through lending activities to businesses in the area. Since its inception in 2015, over $45,000 has been distributed to not-for-profit businesses and organizations in the community. 

“Receiving the funding is a really great way for not-for-profits to get the ball rolling,” said Reid, who shared that through the application process, interested parties also receive access to the support and resources HCDC has available. These services include business support, grant information, and assistance with financial questions. 

“A lot of people don’t know that it’s our job to help,” said Reid. “We want to help! I promise, you’re not bugging us if you reach out!” Reid shared that she looks forward to the applications, and working with individuals who she believes makes Haliburton County brighter. 

The deadline for applications is March 13, but Reid encouraged applicants to submit by March 6, so that HCDC can provide ample feedback and support to the application. She also welcomed all questions and inquiries applicants may have leading up to the deadline. Successful applicants will be informed at the end of March. Visit www.haliburtoncdc.ca for more information.