Large project deadlines for initiatives taking place in 2026 are: February 10, April 20, July 28, October 13
Large project applications submitted outside of the above schedule may not be reviewed due to time constraints. If you feel you have a large project application that is time-sensitive and requires review outside of the year’s pre-selected deadlines, please reach out to the FCEF Co-ordinator at fcef@usw.ca to discuss. Plan ahead – help is available at all stages of the application drafting process.
REQUESTS FOR PROJECTS UNDER $7,500 CAN BE SUBMITTED AT ANY TIME TO YOUR DISTRICT EDUCATION CO-ORDINATOR. Applications must be submitted for review at least two weeks before your event start date. Please give your Education Coordinator a few business days to get back to you on the results of your submission.
Organizing a project is a great way to create ties with neighbours and community groups, educate your members and their families, involve new activists and reach out to NextGen activists. The Fund Co-ordinator can help you with creating project ideas, writing your application, and designing educational components. Reach out today for support!
To apply for project funding
1. Make sure your project fits in one or more of the Fund’s theme areas:
- Engaging Steelworker families
- Building USW community, connection and solidarity
- Supporting and engaging young activists
- Supporting and engaging new activists
- Promoting and engaging members who are under-represented or from equity-deserving groups.
Learn more about our theme areas
2. Familiarize yourself with the Fund’s project criteria:
- No purchasing physical assets, for example a van
- No purchasing gift cards
- Swag is capped at up to $100/item per person
- Budget line for prizes capped at $500/project application
- No making charitable contributions
- No financing of fundraisers, for example ticketed events
- No retroactive applications for already hosted events
- Must include an active educational component, for example participation in a workshop or lunch and learn with Q & A period. Handing out flyers to participants does not count as an educational component!
- Must meet at least one of the Fund’s five themes
- Must offer more than just professional development specific to members’ jobs and/or workplace.
Exceptions may apply
3. Fill out the application form
4. Ask one of the following individuals to sign your project application form:
- Local union president
- Elected union official
- Staff representative