June 2, 2026 Gatineau (Quebec) Employment and Social Development Canada
As the global landscape changes, many Canadians, including seniors, are facing economic uncertainty because the cost of living is going up. In response, the government is building a strong and stable economy and supporting a better quality of life for older Canadians. The New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) plays a crucial role by creating opportunities that allow thousands of seniors to stay engaged and active in their communities.
Today, the Honourable Stephanie McLean, Secretary of State (Seniors), announced the launch of the 2026-27 call for proposals for community-based projects under the New Horizon for Seniors Program.
The Secretary of State also announced important new changes to the NHSP funding process for this year, including:
- doubling the maximum grant amount to $50,000 per project and capping expenditures for capital assistance at $25,000;
- establishing a new assessment criterion to encourage applications from organizations with a mandate or mission primarily focused on seniors;
- requiring applicants to have a Canada Revenue Agency business number; and
- requiring applicants to submit funding applications using the Grants and Contributions Online Services (GCOS) portal (applications by other methods will be permitted upon request).
These changes are effective immediately and the current call for proposals is open until July 14, 2026. The program is prepared to assist applicants in navigating these changes.
The community-based stream of the NHSP funds a wide variety of projects that address one or more of the program's five objectives:
- Promoting volunteering among seniors and other generations;
- Engaging seniors in the community through the mentoring of others;
- Expanding awareness of elder abuse, including financial abuse;
- Supporting the social participation and inclusion of seniors; and
- Providing capital assistance for new and existing community projects and/or programs for seniors.
The government has introduced significant measures to make life more affordable for older Canadians. These initiatives include increasing Old Age Security for individuals over 75, expanding the Guaranteed Income Supplement earnings exemption, introducing the Canadian Dental Care Plan, and improving access to affordable internet. In addition, the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit will provide more support to low- and modest-income households, including seniors. Together, these measures aim to help seniors meet their everyday needs.
