Everything you need to know before you submit your pitch application.
If you answered yes to these three questions, keep on going ahead!
The Youth Impact Survey (YIS) is our Waterloo Region’s opportunity to hear directly from young people about their own well-being. The survey is open to youth aged 9 to 18 living in Waterloo Region. The questions are based on UNICEF Canada’s Index of Child and Youth Well-being, which has nine different domains.
After the survey, we release the data to the public. This includes the Aggregate Data Briefs (looking at all the responses as a whole) and eight Data Snapshots focusing on different populations (like gender identity, age, geographical region, etc.) The CYPT also shares the data with decision-makers like mayors, politicians, directors, and other leaders to guide them to make the changes that youth want to see.
Our Youth Decision-Making Team is looking for pitches and applications that make directly reference to the 2023 Youth Impact Survey Data. They want to see applications that highlight specific facts and challenges you’re seeing in the data and how your pitched project addresses them. See below for examples of how you could tie the data into your presentation.
This slide pulls three data points from the Youth Impact Survey data. It lists them and states a conclusion that “Mental health matters.”
This slide pulls three data points from the Youth Impact Survey data. It lists them and states a conclusion that “Physical health matters.”
This slide introduces the project, then explains how it is a solution to improve mental health and physical health. The slide also mentions that it will increase access to healthy food.
Innovation is the process of inventing something new or improving something that already exists. It happens when you combine something you know (like a challenge you see in your community or your knowledge on a specific topic) with something you don’t know (exploring a new possibility or experimenting with a new solution).
Innovation is closely linked with compassion. To start, you might think of a problem or challenge you or someone you know is facing. From there, you could think of a solution that might help them. Connecting with others is a key part of the innovation process.
These steps are meant to guide you through the process of coming up with your idea, connecting with others in your community, and preparing to present your idea.
Watch this sample pitch to see an example of what your pitch video could look like!
Make sure that your video is 3-4 minutes in length.
Some free video editing software include: Canva, iMovie (for Apple devices), and Microsoft ClipChamp (for PC devices).
Here’s an example of a project timeline. We’re looking for a detailed breakdown of milestones in your project and when they will be done.
Setting small goals will allow you to stay on track.
Here’s an example of a Project Budget. We’ve provided two templates:
You’re welcome to use these templates or use your own as long as it clearly shows:
Before you submit your application, double check our application checklist. This will help you to make your application strong and complete.
Note: you do not need to include this in your application.
Applications for the 2025 Youth Impact Project are now closed.
The Youth Impact Project (YIP) is a collaboration between the Children and Youth Planning Table (CYPT) and Smart Waterloo Region. The project is funded by the Region of Waterloo and United Way Waterloo Region Communities.
Youth projects must tie back to the 2023 Youth Impact Survey data, which is focused on youth aged 9-18. We give priority to projects led by youth within that age range.
If you are applying as a group can apply for up to $5,000. If you are applying as an individual can apply for up to $2,000.
We will be accepting applications until November 9 – or until the money runs out! Therefore, it’s best to submit your application as soon as you can.
At this time, each youth team must be connected to a registered community organization and a staff member from that organization. The organization will be responsible for receiving the funds on behalf of the youth team, and ensuring that the team has the guidance and support they need throughout the project. We’re actively exploring new ways to make it easier for youth to access funding in the future.
If this is not the right fit for you, please check out other funding opportunities at this link.
Yes, even if all team members are over 18, a supporting staff member from a registered community organization is still required. The organization will be responsible for receiving the funds and the supporting staff will be responsible for ensuring the youth receives the funds.
This will be reviewed case by case. If this applies to you, please reach out to us, and we will respond with the next step.
Yes, one organization can support more than one project. Every project will be evaluated separately, and a Memorandum of Understanding will be signed for every funded project.
Our Youth Decision-Making Team will be assessing applications on a rolling basis (as they are submitted.) They will contact you using the information that you submitted with your application.
We will get back to everyone who has submitted an application. So if you haven’t heard from us yet, please be patient because we’re still looking at it!
Yes, all funds must be spent within one year from the date they are released.
Funded teams are expected to:
Yes, you can submit more than one application. However, to prioritize equity and support a diverse range of youth and ideas, it’s less likely that multiple projects from the same applicant will be funded.
