Smart changes. Stronger charities.
Oak Tree 10 celebrates our 10th anniversary by returning to our foundational goal: building stronger and more resilient organizations. We focus on strengthening capacity in the face of growing challenges by supporting nonprofits that are doing extraordinary work to meet the complex demands of our community. We recognize the immense day-to-day pressure on charities: we are not here to request lengthy, complicated applications or for charities to drum up votes. We are about gathering the resources we can to help you do more with what you already have.
New!
Whether you’re applying for Oak Tree funding or not, all charities in Guelph-Wellington are invited to join the Oak Tree Learning Lab. The Lab is a free, three-part virtual professional development series designed by Four Simple Words to help you strengthen your organization by exploring two essential themes: building your team’s mental health and resilience, and embracing AI tools with confidence. Hint: they’re connected!
Oak Tree 10 Grants Competition
This year, 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.
Applications for Oak Tree 10 have closed. Thank you to the charities that applied, and for the great work you are doing to strengthen our community.
What’s next?
October-November 2025: Expert Panel Review & Shortlist Announcement
Thanks to our incredible Expert Panel of community leaders, nonprofit veterans, and sector experts who will review every submission using criteria focused on impact, feasibility, and organizational strength.
January 2026: Engagement with Shortlisted Applicants
In an opportunity to learn more and exchange ideas, the 5 finalists will join our panelists for a 30-minute conversation about their submission.
Grand Finale! Gather and Celebrate.
Mark your calendar for Thursday, January 29th, 2026:! This event is about more than our finalists and giving out grants. It’s a gathering to toast the great work of charities across Guelph and Wellington County, share experiences, and celebrate. Registration link coming soon!
For more information about this year’s process, download the charity information package below.
We are grateful to our partners! In honour of our 10th anniversary, Richardson Wealth is contributing a generous sponsorship to help offset the costs of the Learning Lab and the Finale.
