Invest Kawartha launches LEAP program
Invest Kawartha, formerly known as the Kawartha Lakes Business and Community Development Corporation (KL BCDC) is proud to announce the launch of a new dynamic funding program to support local not for profits.
The LEAP Initiative has been designed to contribute to the growth, resiliency, and vibrancy in the Kawartha Lakes by providing financial support to non-profit organizations. This two-year pilot will assist NFPs in developing programs that align with their strategic priorities and current projects in the region. With a total distribution amount of $200,000 over two years, LEAP will accept applications for projects ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.
The funds will contribute to new initiatives, enhance existing programs, and support ongoing projects that positively impact the communities the NFPs serve. Funding is available for both capital and non-capital costs directly related to project activities. The initiative represents a significant commitment by Invest Kawartha to contribute to the growth, resiliency, and vibrancy of Kawartha Lakes.
“LEAP has been designed to strengthen Kawartha Lakes and its surrounding communities” says Vince Killen, executive director at Invest Kawartha. “The program will support strategic community economic development projects, social innovation, and NFPs by building capacity in our local communities to design and scale initiatives that add to increased resiliency, innovation, and collaboration in our community.”
LEAP is an acronym that represents the mission and goals of the program:
• Locally based support for NFPs
• Empowering projects through local and regional economic development
• Access to Capital, Talent, Resources and Business Advisory services
• Projects that are incremental, scalable, and results-driven
The program aims to support the development of activities that promote healthy, active living, contribute to the quality of life in the region, boost tourism, result in job creation, and aid in the achievement of NFP strategic goals. Ideal projects are incremental in nature, align with the strategic priorities of the KL BCDC, and not create a dependency on KL BCDC funding.
“We are excited about the potential impact of the LEAP program on our community,” said Adam Hayward, Board Chair at KL BCDC. “By empowering non-profit organizations, we aim to enhance the overall well-being of Kawartha Lakes and contribute to sustainable economic development. We encourage eligible organizations to take advantage of this funding opportunity and bring their innovative projects to life.”
Interested organizations are encouraged to submit their applications by March 31, 2024. Application details and more information are available on launchkawartha.com/leap.
I totally agree with Wallace. There is no mention of all the new programs and consultants being hired, about services here in Lindsay. There is virtually no transportation to other cities and the hospital and clinics are overwhelmed. There is no shopping and the Lindsay mall has few retail outlets inviting to the citizens. There is little reason to go there except to the drug store. Home building and downtown development is great but where are the new people to shop, obtain medical services and transport to other cities? Taxes keep increasing but the residents paying them are little enhanced for basic services such as these. I do not see any plans in sight, let alone new ideas from all the so called “consultants” being hired.