Important Update: Following a review of program objectives and ongoing NGO sector input, several changes are being introduced to make funding more accessible to a wider range of community organizations across the Northwest Territories. Click here for more information on how the program has changed.

Overview

Recognizing that many NWT NGOs deliver services and programs that support GNWT policy objectives, such as homelessness, addictions support, and shelters for women and families, the NGO Stabilization Fund was established in 2009. 

A lot has changed since then, and the GNWT recognizes the need to be more responsive to what is happening in communities and the NGOs that support them, including reducing administrative burden, responding more effectively to emerging needs, and getting funding out more quickly. 

Funding support is available for eligible NGOs who:

• are registered and in good standing in the NWT either as a society, association or as created under NWT or federal statute.
• are in compliance with any existing GNWT funding agreements.
• deliver project-based community-driven programs and services associated with addressing resident wellbeing.

Eligible one-time costs to stabilize or develop organizational capacity to manage programs and services including:

• General management costs that cannot be attributed to specific programs or services such as general administration and management, finances and bookkeeping
• Governance costs or board-related costs such as governance and board and staff training, 
• Organizational development costs related to the structure and process of the organization
• Additional extraordinary general operations costs related to general operations and maintenance that cannot be directly attributed to specific programs or services. 

Collaborative projects that build the capacity of more than one NGO are encouraged.

Eligibility

The organization must be:

• registered and in good standing in the NWT as a society or association or as created under NWT or federal statute; and
• In compliance with any existing GNWT funding agreements.

Available funding

The maximum amount that can be granted to an applicant NGO is $25,000 per year.

In previous years, demand for support from the NGO Stabilization Fund has exceeded the available budget. To support more organizations, partial amounts of requested funding may be provided at times in consultation with the NGO, time permitting.

Deadline

The application deadline is February 1, 2027,5:00PM.

How to apply

1. Complete the application form. 
2. Complete the project budget form
3. Submit your completed application and project budget to gsi@gov.nt.ca.

What is staying the same/what's changing

• Eligible one-time expenses related to organizational stabilization and capacity development remain unchanged.
• Organizations must continue to be registered and in good standing in the NWT as a society, association, or organization established under territorial or federal legislation and be in compliance with any existing GNWT funding agreements.
• Organizations do not need to be current GNWT funding recipients to apply.
• Organizations do not need to deliver a critical GNWT service to be eligible.
• All approved funding will be provided as grants.
• The maximum available funding will be $25,000 per organization.
• Projects funded under any of the previous three NGOSF funding cycles, or projects that are substantially similar, will generally not be eligible for additional funding.