IF-ADAPT Foundation Grants

The new IF-ADAPT Foundation and United Way Saint John, Kings & Charlotte have joined forces to foster innovation and support organizations in enhancing the effectiveness of their services or programs, specifically tailored to meet the needs of communities or individuals. This collaboration aims to bring about tangible improvements in the delivery of these vital initiatives.

The IF-ADAPT Foundation receives funding from the Grebenc and Bourque families and its name carries deep meaning for its founders, reflecting their vision for the progress of the social sector in the future.

The term “IF” symbolizes the potential for transformative change that can yield measurable and positive outcomes. For instance, by implementing solution A to address problem B, these are the tangible results that could be achieved.

On the other hand, “ADAPT” represents the proactive action taken by motivated individuals who devise and execute a sustainable plan to bring the envisioned “IF” into reality.

The foundation aims to foster a culture of social entrepreneurship within charitable organizations, aiming to enhance the way they deliver their current services and future expansions. Various types of projects that could be pursued include, but are not restricted to:

• Facilitating partnerships among established charities, eliminating duplication of efforts and enabling the provision of improved, integrated services.
• Establishing pilot programs that explore novel or alternative methods of service delivery, striving for enhanced effectiveness.
• Investments in modernizing back-office systems are also considered, aiming to streamline operations and maximize the impact achieved with the same or reduced funding.
• Innovative and disruptive approaches to service provision, exploring the use and development of technology or fundamental process changes that may eliminate the need for certain services or significantly enhance their delivery.

 Funding requirements:

• Must be a registered charity with CRA.
• The work of the charity must be focused on the social services sector.
• Funds will not be granted to support current or as-is operations.

Additional Guidelines:

• There is no restriction on the size of the improvement project. Big or small projects are welcome to apply.
• Applications for projects will be accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year, with funding approval contingent upon availability of funds for that particular year.

• All improvement projects must have a well-defined scope, including a clear articulation, a designated timeline, and specific measurable outcomes to be targeted.
• Funding disbursement will follow a phased approach, aligning with the project’s timeline.
• Charities undertaking these projects are required to commit to measuring, documenting, and reporting the results achieved.

Applying for funding:

United Way Saint John, Kings & Charlotte has collaborated with IF-ADAPT to assist in identifying potential projects. To discuss your project idea, please reach out to Alexya Heelis at ifadapt@unitedwaysaintjohn.com or call 506-658-1214. If your project idea is approved, you will be invited to submit a proposal to the IF-ADAPT Foundation.