175 Years - 1852-2027

The Township of Wellesley turns 175 in 2027, and we have BIG plans!

We will be hosting events throughout the year, with two major events headlining the year!

The Orchard Music Festival

August 13/14, 2027

Hockey Showcase Weekend

Featuring a Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni Game

October 2/3, 2027

Stay tuned and follow along on social media for more information regarding these events, and other events throughtout the year.

Township 175th Anniversary Community Grant Fund

As we prepare to celebrate the Township's 175th Anniversary, we invite local community groups, organizations, clubs, and volunteers to help make this milestone year a memorable one for everyone.

Through the Township's 175th Anniversary Community Grant Fund, financial support will be available to eligible groups interested in organizing special events, activities, programs, or projects that celebrate our community's rich history, vibrant culture, and shared future.

All grant applications will be reviewed and evaluated by the Township's Recreation Advisory Committee. The Committee will make funding recommendations based on established eligibility criteria, the proposed community impact of the project, and how the initiative supports the goals of the Township's 175th Anniversary celebrations.

Funding will be provided through the Township's Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) reserve fund and is intended to encourage community-led initiatives that bring residents and visitors together throughout the anniversary celebrations.

Whether you're planning a festival, historical exhibit, cultural event, public art project, community mural, heritage initiative, community gathering

we encourage you to apply.

Together, let's create a year of celebrations that honours 175 years of community spirit and leaves a lasting legacy for future generations.

Applications, eligibility requirements, and funding details can be found below.

Apply Now

Application Requirements

Organizations applying must meet all these criteria:

Eligible organizations: Applications are open to volunteer-led groups and/or non-profit organizations.

Local connection: The organization must have a location, operation, or established presence within the Township of Wellesley.

Serving our community: At least 80% of the participants benefiting from the program or service must be residents of the Township of Wellesley.

Open and inclusive services: Organizations must make their programs and services available to the general public within the Township of Wellesley, in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Board or leadership: Organizations must have an active and independent Board of Directors with a minimum of five members. The Board should operate independently from the organization’s senior staff.

Organizational applications: Applications should be submitted on behalf of the organization by its Board of Directors or Executive Committee, rather than by an individual program, team, committee, or other part of the organization.

Insurance: Organizations must maintain valid General Liability Insurance with coverage of at least $2 million, naming the Township of Wellesley as an additional insured and providing for a 30-day cancellation notice.
Volunteer and public safety: Organizations are responsible for appropriate volunteer screening and other reasonable risk-management practices to help provide a safe environment for volunteers, participants, and the public.
Compliance with legislation: Organizations must comply with all applicable federal, provincial, and Township legislation, regulations, and bylaws, including requirements related to accessibility, human rights, and occupational health and safety.
Complete applications: Please ensure your application includes all requested information and supporting documentation and is submitted by the application deadline. This helps us review all applications fairly and efficiently.
Good standing: Organizations must be in good standing with the Township and have submitted all required documentation for any grant funding received in previous years within the required timelines.

Additional Consideration

If an organization is unable to meet one or more of these eligibility requirements, they are welcome to provide an explanation as part of their funding application. The Grants Review Committee and/or Council may consider the circumstances when reviewing the request for funding.