This bursary program is open to staff of charities and non-profits across the South Okanagan Similkameen.  It was created to offer organizations that have limited professional development resources the opportunity to improve the skills and capacity of their people. In turn, we hope these investments will help organizations become stronger, more resilient and better able to deliver their programs and services.

Bursaries can be used for a learning opportunity that builds the applicant’s skills and capacity in their current role with their organization, or prepares them for new roles and responsibilities. Applications should be made as early as possible, and ideally at least three weeks before the start of the learning opportunity. Eligible learning opportunities include training courses/programs, workshops and conferences. If you have questions about the eligibility of your learning opportunity, e-mail grants@cfso.net.

When can I apply?

The program will accept applications on a continuous basis from July 2 through December 6, 2024, or until all funds have been allocated. One bursary can be awarded per applying organization. Bursaries of up to $600 are available.

Where do I apply?

Starting on July 2, click here to access our application portal. If you don’t have one already, you will need to create an account. Click on the “Create New Account” button to get started.

Completing the Organizational Information section of your account

Our application software is designed for organizations, which means there are some work-arounds required for an individual bursary applicant.

In the Organization Information section of the “Create New Account” page, please:

• Fill in only the starred (*) fields
• Organization Name: please use your family (last) name
• CRA Registration Number: follow the instructions for not-for-profit organizations
• Address: please use your organization’s address
• Telephone: please use the number where you can most easily be reached

Starting your application

Once you have created and signed into your account, you can start your application by clicking on the “Application – Organizational Development Bursary” link. You can access your application at any time prior to final submission by logging in with your username and password. If you forget your password, click on the “Forgot Your Password?” link.

Expense summary spreadsheet

In the application, you’ll find a question about total expenses. You’ll need to download this simple spreadsheet, complete and save it, and upload it to your application:

Need assistance?

Please email grants@cfso.net with your questions.