Mississauga council has approved $4.2 million in grants for 2026, spreading the money across 88 community and cultural groups and projects that run everything from youth sports and seniors' programs to theatre, dance and summer festivals.

The funding goes to Mississauga-based not-for-profit groups. The city says it will support programming in sports, youth and older adult initiatives, the performing and visual arts and other community services.

Where the money goes

The grants are split across four programs:

  • Community Grant Program: $1,064,069 for 25 recipients that run programs to keep residents active, healthy and connected

  • Arts and Culture Grant Program: $1,671,948 for 27 professional and community arts, culture and heritage organizations

  • Cultural Festivals and Celebrations Grants: $1,442,500 for 28 festivals and celebrations open to residents and visitors

  • Culture Project Grants: $40,000 for eight arts projects tied to this year's theme of art and the environment

Arts and culture groups receive the biggest share, at about 40 per cent of the total. Festival funding helps organizers cover the cost of putting on heritage and cultural celebrations.

The smallest stream, the Culture Project Grants, is open to organizations, artist collectives and business improvement areas. In 2026, projects must be arts-based and show a clear link to environmental themes or practices.

What the city says

Mississauga is a vibrant, creative hub and that has been made possible because of the strength of our arts and cultural community.

— Mayor Carolyn Parrish

Parrish said a council subcommittee had worked over the past year to make sure the groups are well funded, noting that they support older residents, young people, health and the arts.

Raj Sheth, the city's commissioner of community services, said the 2026 program supports both new and established groups and lines up with the city's Future Directions plan, which covers culture, recreation, parks, libraries and fire and emergency services. He said residents can expect live performances, cultural festivals, neighbourhood initiatives and recreational activities from this year's recipients.

The city says the grants are meant to help local groups offer activities that reflect Mississauga's growing diversity. Information on the city's grant programs is posted on the City of Mississauga website.