Overview

This stream supports major new infrastructure projects that:

  • address a demonstrated community need, such as replacing an existing facility that has reached the end of its lifespan to meet programming demand
  • transform infrastructure, including the repurposing or expansion of existing structures to create net new community sport and recreation facilities
  • are unique facilities that do not already exist in the province/region
  • will attract investment and economic growth for local communities and businesses
  • will attract and host large sporting events that increase tourism

Refer to the Stream 2 project guidelines for full details.

Important dates

Intake is open.

Application intake is ongoing until all funding has been allocated.

Eligibility

Applicants

Eligible applicants include:

  • municipalities
  • Indigenous communities and organizations
  • local service boards
  • not-for-profit organizations
  • for-profit organizations that operate or manage a space that offers sport or recreation programming

Projects

Examples of eligible projects include:

  • new public infrastructure projects for which there is a demonstrated need, such as replacing an existing facility that has reached the end of its lifespan to meet community programming needs
  • projects that make transformative investments in community sport or recreation infrastructure, including the repurposing or expansion of existing structures to create net-new facilities
  • new facilities that do not exist in the province/region that attract new programming and net-new employment, retain jobs, and provide an economic impact for local communities and businesses (for example, increase tourism or attract and host large sporting events)
  • Signature New Builds, which are defined as high-profile projects that will be recognized for innovative design, or for having a significant community and economic impact, or iconic status within the sport sector

Funding

You could get up to $10 million. Approved projects must be completed with all eligible project expenses incurred no later than March 31, 2027.

Provincial cost-sharing

  • up to 90% for Indigenous communities and Indigenous not-for-profit organizations
  • up to 50% for municipalities, local services boards and not-for-profit organizations
  • up to 25% for for-profit organizations

Under unique and exceptional circumstances, we may consider a provincial contribution of up to 70% of eligible project costs for not-for-profit organizations, local services boards or municipalities with a population of less than 20,000.

Additionally, for Signature New Builds, we may consider an investment of over $10 million.

Expenses

Eligible project expenses include:

  • development costs associated with construction
  • transportation and delivery costs
  • fixed equipment and technology costs
  • construction and/or renovation costs
  • costs to purchase, produce and install Ontario Builds signage at the project site

Stacking

You may not use other Ontario provincial funding for the project.

Successful recipients (and their partners, if applicable) must cover all remaining project expenses.

How to apply

The application process is administered through Transfer Payment Ontario.

  1. Create a My Ontario Account and register for Transfer Payment Ontario.
  2. Log in to Transfer Payment Ontario.
  3. Click on “Submit for Funding” and select the CSRIF Stream 2: New Builds/Signature New Builds.
  4. Review or complete sections in the online application as per the guidelines.
  5. Attach all required documents.
  6. Submit your application.

Note for new registrants

If this is your first time creating a My Ontario account, it may take up to 5 business days to get access to the Transfer Payment Ontario system.

Required documents

You must include the following documentation with your application:

  • completed application form
  • business case template — project details
  • audited financial statements (except municipalities)
  • proof of ownership or lease (except for on-reserve projects by Indigenous communities)
  • proof of legal status (except municipalities)
  • board motion/endorsement/resolution
  • corporate structure (for-profit organizations and applications with for-profit partners only)
  • partnership agreements (if applicable)
  • request for special consideration form (if applicable)

Refer to the Stream 2 program guidelines for details.

Optional supporting documents

We strongly encourage you to support your application with additional documentation:

  • plans, designs and details
  • financial resources, quotes and estimates
  • letters of support

After you apply

After you submit your application, you will receive an auto-generated confirmation email from Transfer Payment Ontario. If you have not received a confirmation email within 48 hours of your submission, contact TPON Client Care.

All correspondence will be sent to the primary contact listed in your application. Make sure the contact information is correct, including a phone number and email address, so we can keep you informed about your application status.

Selection process

To determine compliance and suitability with the funding criteria, the ministry will:

  • confirm eligibility and undertake due diligence checks for all applicants
  • confirm the project meets basic funding requirements and is achievable within the program timelines
  • undertake a risk assessment and financial assessment of the applicant to confirm their capacity to manage the proposed project

The ministry will then review and assess all eligible applications against the following criteria:

  • community need
  • community support
  • economic impact
  • addressing a gap in services
  • operating/financial capacity
  • value for money

If you are not approved

We will notify you about the decision by email.

If you are approved

If you are a successful applicant, we will send you a conditional letter that states the approved funding amount for your project. You will need to meet several obligations, including:

  • confirming in writing that project financing has been secured from all identified sources
  • signing a transfer payment agreement with the Ministry of Sport
  • providing a certificate of insurance that indicates you carry at least $5 million commercial general liability insurance coverage for the duration of the agreement
  • installing Ontario Builds signage for the duration of the project
  • reporting on the use of the funds, project stage deliverables and outcomes achieved
  • permitting the ministry to verify or audit all information submitted