Supported by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, the Invasive Species Centre (ISC) is inviting proposals for the Invasive Species Action Fund (ISAF), which focuses on on-the-ground monitoring and management of high-priority invasive species across Ontario.
Eligible applicants include Indigenous communities, incorporated not-for-profit organisations., as well as municipalities and conservation authorities.
Invasive species non-native plants, animals, insects, and pathogens pose a major threat to biodiversity and the health of Ontario’s ecosystems. They disrupt forests, lakes, recreational spaces, and cultural resources, often with devastating economic consequences.
Globally, the cost of invasive species now surpasses that of natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods. In Ontario alone, their impact is estimated at $3.6 billion annually across sectors including forestry, agriculture, infrastructure, tourism, and recreation.
“We’re pleased to be supporting local action to help reduce the impacts of invasive species throughout Ontario,” says Colin Cassin, Invasive Species Centre Executive Director. “Through sustained investment in invasive species management, we’re protecting the natural spaces that we want to leave the same or better for future generations.”
The ISAF provides funding through three streams: Microgrants (up to $3,500) for community stewardship initiatives, Accelerated Impact (up to $15,000) for large-scale projects in priority areas, and Transformative Action (up to $50,000) for high-impact management efforts.
This funding round prioritises species listed under Ontario’s Invasive Species Act, with themes including early detection, rapid response, and strategic management. Since 2021, the ISC has supported 372 projects across the province.
Applications are open until Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. and can be submitted through www.invasivespeciescentre.ca/grants.