The Muskoka Chapter Bursary Program aims to provide financial support to students and community organizations within the Muskoka region that contribute to the growth, education, and advancement of the horticulture and landscape industry.

This program supports both individual learning and community initiatives that align with Landscape Ontario’s mission to foster a thriving, professional, and sustainable green industry.

Annual allocation

The Muskoka Chapter Board may allocate up to $5,000 in bursary funds each year, pending Board approval and available budget.

The number and value of bursaries awarded each year will be determined by the Chapter Board based on available funds.

Eligibility

Students:

• Must be enrolled or recently graduated (within 12 months of the application) in a horticulture, landscape, or related environmental studies program from a recognized Ontario post-secondary institution.
• Students must reside in or have significant connection to the Muskoka Chapter region.
• Previous recipients may reapply, but preference is given to new applicants.

Organizations:

• Must be a registered non-profit, school, or community group operating within the Muskoka Chapter area.
• Proposed projects must align with Landscape Ontario’s mission and demonstrate a clear benefit to the Muskoka community, industry, or local environment (for example: community garden projects, outdoor learning spaces, or environmental restoration initiatives).
• Organizations are required to submit a short report or project summary after completion

Applications

• Applications for organizations are accepted on a rolling basis until all funds are distributed for the year.
• Applications for students open annually, with a submission deadline in June/July, in time for the upcoming school year.
• Application forms should be made available on the Landscape Ontario webpage and promoted through LO newsletters, social media channels, and partner schools.

Applications must include:

• Applicant/organization name and contact information
• Description of program, project, or educational goal
• Amount requested and intended use of funds
• Supporting documents such as proof of enrolment/graduation, project plan, or budget allocation
• Endorsement or letter of support (optional but encouraged)
• Other requirements as required per chapter/sector

Review and selection

A Bursary Committee (minimum of three members, including at least one Muskoka Chapter Board representative) will review all submissions.

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Relevance to the horticulture or landscape industry
• Demonstrated need and potential impact
• Alignment with LO’s mission and community benefit
• Completeness and clarity of the application

Disbursement

• Successful recipients will be notified in writing and may be recognized at a Muskoka Chapter event (such as the AGM or Awards Night).
• Recipient names and organizations may also appear on the Landscape Ontario website and featured in Muskoka Chapter communications, LO e-news and social media, with permission.
• Funds will be disbursed by Landscape Ontario directly to:
  • The student (or their educational institution), or
  • The organization (for approved project funding).

Reporting

Students: May be asked to submit a short thank-you letter, testimonial, or photo update for Chapter communications.

Organizations: Must submit a short written summary or report detailing how the funds were used and the results achieved.

 

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