OTTAWA – The City of Ottawa is now accepting applications for the annual Community Economic Development Funding program, which funds projects that reduce barriers to employment and create jobs for disadvantaged populations.

Grants are available for non-profit organizations that are starting businesses and creating jobs or helping people under-represented in the mainstream economy – including lower income youth and older adults, rural residents, new immigrants and visible minorities – to develop entrepreneurial and employability skills.

This program awards up to $280,000 per year to projects that are selected by a jury panel of reviewers. Please consult the eligibility criteria for more details. Applications are open until Friday, March 20 at 4 p.m.