About the Youth Impact Project
The Youth Impact Project (YIP) is a collaboration between the Children and Youth Planning Table of Waterloo Region (CYPT) and Smart Waterloo Region Innovation Lab (SWRIL). The Youth Impact Project looks to fund youth who are addressing local challenges which are identified through the 2023 Youth Impact Survey results. The funded projects include a focus on supporting youth mental and physical health, increasing feelings of belonging, and responding to climate change and food insecurity.
In 2024, over 100 youth from 15 local organisations pitched their ideas to a panel of nine youth. The Youth Decision-Making Panel (“The Dragons”) decided which projects would receive funding to make their idea a reality. In 2025, CYPT and SWRIL are accepting youth applications online, and a team of three youth are deciding which projects will receive funding.
Funded Youth Project #1: Civic Clarity Foundation
We’re so excited to announce that the first youth project to receive funding is the Civic Clarity Foundation! The Civic Clarity Foundation is a non-partisan, youth-led think tank working to deliver unapologetic clarity on provincial and federal policies impacting young Canadians. We move beyond the surface for rigorous analysis and scrutiny, demystifying complex legislation and governmental activity. Our purpose is to ensure our generation has the truth, ensuring we are informed, engaged, and prepared to demand a better future from our leaders.
On August 29, The Civic Clarity Foundation will host a public civic panel in Waterloo Regional Council Chambers titled “Youth Mental Health & The Role of Good Governance.” The event brings together Members of Parliament and Provincial Legislature to be held accountable, share their next steps forward, and listen to youth as consultants in one of Canada’s most urgent challenges: the mental health crisis young people face.
Event Details
- Date: August 29th, 2025
- Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Waterloo Regional Council Chambers, 150 Frederick St, Kitchener
- RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-mental-health-the-role-of-good-governance-tickets-1573765417729?aff=oddtdtcreator
More about the Youth Impact Project
CYPT and SWRIL are still accepting applications for youth-led projects to get funded. We invite you to apply as soon as possible because we’re evaluating projects on a rolling basis. Visit the following links for more information: