About this award 

The ONPHA Innovation Award recognizes non-profit housing providers that have developed an innovative response to an environmental, operational or community challenge. Their initiatives demonstrate promising outcomes and serve as inspirations for other non-profit housing providers. 

This award recognizes an organization (rather than an individual) for a particular project or initiative.

Eligibility criteria  

The initiative or program must meet the following criteria:

  • One or more of the participating organizations must be an ONPHA Housing Provider Member.
  • Has created a unique program or service response to a challenge facing the corporation, its tenants, community, or physical environment, either individually or in partnership.
  • Demonstrates creativity, quality, and innovation.
  • The program or service response can serve as a model for other non-profit housing providers.
  • Has evidence (qualitative or quantitative) of the initiative’s impact on individuals, the community, the environment and/or the organization.
  • Is a recent initiative, in place no longer than five years.

2025 Awards

We are now accepting nominations for the 2025 ONPHA Awards! Make sure you submit by Friday, May 2 at 5:00 p.m. in order to be considered.

Submit a nomination

Do you prefer to apply offline? Download our nomination form today.

2024 ONPHA Innovation Award Winner:

The Next Surgeon Program | Toronto Community Housing

Toronto Community Housing‘s Next Surgeon Program has been honored with the 2024 ONPHA Innovation Award. This groundbreaking initiative empowers young, aspiring medical professionals from visible minority groups living in community housing. Through mentorship, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities with top medical professionals, the program aims to break down barriers and inspire the next generation of doctors and surgeons. By providing access to education and opportunities, The Next Surgeon is transforming lives and shaping the future of healthcare.

Past Winners

2023: WoodGreen

2022: LOFT Community Services

2021: Blue Door

2020: CityHousing Hamilton

2019: Waterloo Region Housing

2018: Durham Region Non-Profit Housing Corporation

2017: Ottawa Salus Corporation

2016: Housing York

2015: Physically Handicapped Adults’ Rehabilitation Association

2014: WoodGreen Community Services

Other ONPHA Awards

Know someone who deserves recognition? Explore our other awards and nominate them today!