Smart changes. Stronger charities.

Oak Tree 10 celebrates our 10th anniversary by returning to our foundational goal: building stronger and more resilient organizations. This year, we focus on strengthening capacity in the face of growing challenges and supporting nonprofits that are doing extraordinary work to meet the growing demands of our community.

We recognize the immense day-to-day demands on charities. That is why OTP 10 is not about moonshots, it is about helping you do more with what you already have. We are interested in hearing practical ideas that will make your work easier, more sustainable, or more connected. Whether it is a better process, a new tool, or a collaboration that frees up time or energy, upgrades come in many forms.

And while our foundation remains the same, we continue to evolve ourselves. Instead of a single grand prize, OTP 10 will feature an equitable distribution among finalists from a shared prize pool. Evaluations will blend expert insights and community input to fairly reward each organization’s efforts.

Expert Panel

Thanks to our incredible Expert Panel of community leaders, nonprofit veterans, and sector experts who understand the challenges you are facing. They will review every submission using criteria focused on impact, feasibility, and organizational strength.

Starting in September, we will be looking for proposals that:

• Increase operational capacity: Strengthening how your organization runs—inside and out.
• Upgrade what is working: Small changes with meaningful impact, whether tech-based or not.
• Build on current collaborations and community: Building or deepening connections that support your mission.

Whether you are applying, partnering, or curious about our training plans for the fall, thank you for all the ways you are building community.

New this year! The Oak Tree Learning Lab

Whether you’re applying to Oak Tree or not, all charities in Guelph-Wellington are invited to join the Oak Tree Learning Lab, a free professional development series designed to help you work smarter, not harder. Session facilitation and training brought to you by Four Simple Words.

This three-part virtual workshop series will help strengthen your organization by exploring two essential themes: building your team’s mental health and resilience, and embracing AI tools with confidence. Plan to attend all 3!

• October 15, 10-11m – Setting the Stage – Why mental health and AI matter for your team
• October 22, 10-11am – Mental Health & Team Resilience – Practical tools from Compass Community Services
• October 29, 10-11am – AI Made Simple – Streamline your work without the overwhelm

All sessions are virtual, recorded for registrants who can’t attend live, and designed for real people doing real work in today’s challenging charity environment.

Watch this space this fall for sign up details.