Initiative in progress

Call for Proposals : Free to Play Fund

Encouraging Free Outdoor Play for Children in the Outaouais

Fondation Philanthropie Outaouais is launching a call for proposals under the Free to Play Fund, made possible by a $473,000 grant from Community Foundations of Canada (CFC).. The Free to Play Fund is an initiative of CFC, launched by the Waltons Trust, with the support of the Lawson Foundation and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Foundation

 

As of November 28, 2025, registered charities, incorporated non-profit organizations, Indigenous organizations, and other qualified donees working with children and families are invited to submit a funding application. Eligible projects must aim to create or strengthen opportunities for active, creative, and spontaneous outdoor play for children

 

Before submitting an application, organizations are strongly encouraged to review the Applicant Guide, which outlines eligibility criteria, program objectives, and funding guidelines.

The application deadline is February 24, 2026.

Important Dates

  • Friday, November 28, 2025 : Application portal opens
  • Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. (ET): Webinar hosted by Community Foundations of Canada. REGISTER HERE
  • Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (ET): An online information session hosted by Fondation Philanthropy Outaouais will take place. Applicants are asked to review the Application Guide before attending this session. REGISTER HERE
  • Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. (ET): Application portal closes
  • April 2026: Announcement of selected projects

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Free to Play Fund?

The Free to Play Fund is a new national fund that supports local projects promoting active, spontaneous outdoor play for children. Its goal is to give children back the freedom to move, imagine, explore, and interact away from screens, in welcoming and stimulating environments.

Why is outdoor play at the heart of this fund?

Because free play is essential to children’s healthy development. It contributes to their autonomy, confidence, mental health, and social skills. Outdoor play allows children to take measured risks, solve problems, and develop creativity. When children play freely, they thrive—and their communities benefit as well.

What types of projects are supported?

The Fund supports projects rooted in local realities and led by the community. These may include nature-based and experiential learning programs, unstructured play activities, activation or light redevelopment of underused community spaces, or projects that mobilize caregivers, educators, neighbors, and local leaders. In all cases, play is child-led.

How much funding can be requested?

Organizations may request funding between $10,000 and $50,000 for their project, with one application per organization. Applicants are encouraged to request the amount that best reflects their project’s actual needs.

This approach helps support the greatest possible number of promising community initiatives.

Why participate in the Free to Play Fund?

Because when children feel free to explore, they build confidence and creativity. Families grow closer. Communities become stronger. Free play is not optional it is foundational.

I would like more information about the Free to Play Fund. Who can I contact?

We encourage all interested individuals to consult the information available through their local community foundation. The email address for Fondation Philanthropie Outaouais is: info@philanthropieoutaouais.com