Social Impact Fund

Submissions for the Social Impact Fund are now closed.

Find updates and news about future projects and our Social Responsibility strategy here.

We are excited to share a new pilot funding opportunity to support projects and research that promote social responsibility and benefits Ontarians in a positive way.

The Fund directly supports the OCS’s Social Responsibility strategy and includes three Social Impact funding streams:

1. Establishing a Foundation for Environmental Sustainability
2. Supporting a Diverse & Inclusive Cannabis Industry in Ontario
3. Advancing Cannabis Knowledge & Promoting Responsible Consumption  

We welcome applications from incorporated not-for-profits, registered charitable organizations, and researchers and research teams affiliated with academic or research institutions. For a full list of eligibility criteria, please consult the Social Impact Fund Application Guide.  

Key Dates

Call for Applications Opens:
Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 9 a.m. EST
Application Deadline:
Thursday, May 25, 2023, at 5 p.m. EST
 OCS Response:
August 2023
Project Start:
No later than October 16, 2023


Social Impact Fund en 1

The Fund is rooted in our commitment to promoting responsible cannabis consumption while protecting youth and vulnerable populations. Our focus is on funding projects and research that create shared social value and mobilize knowledge for people, communities and the Ontario cannabis sector.  

By investing in environmental sustainability, education, knowledge mobilization and projects that promote diversity, equity and inclusion in the cannabis industry, we are working to achieve our vision. We are looking for partners who have goals that align with our Social Responsibility pillars.  

In 2023, for the first time, the OCS has allocated $500,000 for this pilot funding cycle.  

  • Depending on scope and needs, the available funding ranges from $25,000 to $100,000.  
  • Projects can be between eight and 12 months in duration.  
  • Applicants may make only one request.  

For more information on the Fund and application process, download the Social Impact Fund — Application Guide.

Social Impact Funding Streams

This stream focuses on supporting projects and research aimed at promoting environmental sustainability education and best practices.

This stream focuses on supporting projects that help support and foster a diverse and inclusive cannabis industry.

This stream focuses on supporting projects aimed at advancing cannabis knowledge and supporting responsible consumption.

Application Process Details

Applicants can download the application form here.

Applicants are encouraged to review the application questions carefully. Once completed, please email all required documents to socialresponsibility@ocs.ca by Thursday, May 25, 2023, at 5 p.m. EST: 

  • The completed application form (.doc or .docx file) 
  • The completed application budget form (.xls or .xlsx file) 
  • Audited financial statements, if applicable, or one of the substitutional financial information requirements if the applicant is a new organization
  • A citation or reference document, if applicable  

For more information on the application process and details on completing the application form, download the Social Impact Fund — Application Guide. 

Contact Us

We invite applicants to email the Social Responsibility team at socialresponsibility@ocs.ca with any questions about the application, submission process and evaluation, as well as any general feedback about the process and the Social Impact Fund program. 

Social Impact Fund — Application Guide

Download the guide for a detailed explanation of what the Fund is, how to apply and the eligibility criteria. 

Social Impact Fund Application and General FAQS

Read all FAQs

Please note: Those selected will receive an onboarding package outlining the reporting requirements. Organizations will be required to enter into an OCS Funding Agreement prior to the release of any funding. Details and processes are subject to change each year.