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Uplift Fund

At Toronto Pearson, we are building a stronger, more inclusive workforce across the communities surrounding the airport by supporting programs that break down barriers and create long-term employment opportunities. By investing in and cultivating partnerships with local organizations, we fund projects that create pathways for local residents to develop new skills, access meaningful careers and contribute to the region’s economic success.

Our community investments are focused and strategic to ensure maximum impact. Through the Uplift Fund, we support projects that provide job seeker support, enhance employer engagement practices and deliver holistic employment programming.

By supporting these projects, we aim to:

  • Create meaningful job and career growth opportunities.
  • Facilitate effective employment supports and services for local residents.
  • Enhance the capacity and sustainability of community partners.
  • Support training and programming that address systemic barriers contributing to inequalities in the regional economy.

Now Accepting Expressions of Interest

Toronto Pearson is now accepting Expressions of Interest until December 18, 2026.

Funding is available under two streams:

  • Breaking Down Barriers to Meaningful Employment
  • Growing the Construction Skilled Trades

View the Uplift Fund guidelines.

To apply, complete Step 1 by submitting your online Expression of Interest (EOI). EOIs will be accepted until December 18, 2026. All applicants will be notified about the status of their EOI in February 2027. Organizations invited to submit a complete application will receive an invitation to complete the Step 2 application.

Funding requests may support a new initiative, a part of a larger program, or the expansion of an existing initiative into a new area. Applicants should clearly outline how the requested funding will be used and the expected outcomes.

Organizations may submit an EOI for more than one project under one or both funding streams. Organizations are limited to three applications per calendar year. Note: up to 20% of the proposed budget can be allocated to organizational overhead.

Eligibility

To be considered for funding, projects must:

  • Be led by an organization whose mission and core operations focus on employment-related services, workforce development, or career advancement.
  • Be led by a not-for-profit organization, academic institution, or professional association.
  • Directly benefit local residents and/or employers of Brampton, Mississauga and/or Etobicoke.
  • Demonstrate a track record of successful delivery of employment-focused programming for jobseekers/employees, employers/businesses, or both.
  • Demonstrate community engagement and partnerships that support program delivery and impact.

While applications supporting employment in all sectors are welcome, priority will be given to those focused on the following sectors:

  • Construction and General Labour
  • Hospitality and Retail
  • Transportation and Trucking
  • Manufacturing and Warehousing
  • Innovation and Technology

Ineligible Applications

Applications will not be accepted from:

  • Individuals
  • For-profit businesses
  • Private clubs funded through membership fees
  • Competitive sports teams
  • Religious or politically affiliated organizations or candidates
  • Organizations not registered as a not-for-profit or charity
  • Trade unions and union-affiliated organizations

The Uplift Fund will also not support requests primarily for:

  • Events or conferences
  • Fundraising activities
  • Capital expenses
  • Projects operating outside of Canada

If you wish to apply for event sponsorship, visit our Partnerships and Sponsorships page.

For questions about the Uplift Fund, contact propeller.project@gtaa.com.