External Grant Programs
Below is a list of external funding opportunities from government, corporations and not-for-profit organizations specific for the recreation and parks sector. If you are interested in a funding opportunity, please contact the organizations listed below for further information.
Government of Alberta
The Community Initiatives Program (CIP) supports project-based initiatives in areas such as community services, seniors’ services, libraries, arts and culture, sports, education, and health and recreation. The maximum grant is $75,000 per project per year and applications can be submitted at any time. CIP funding is approved on a matching grant basis. The matching requirement may be met in the form of any contribution of money, volunteer labour, services, or donated materials or equipment for the project.
Alberta Municipalities
The Electric Vehicle Charging Program (EVCP) supports businesses, not-for profits, and other organizations getting ready to welcome electric vehicle drivers. Right now, you can access rebates up to 46% off the purchase and installation of new EV charging stations in Alberta. That could mean a rebate of $5,000 for a Level 2 charger or even $75,000 for a DC Fast Charger. Eligible costs include equipment purchase, installation and construction, engineering, permitting, signage and electrical upgrading.
Alberta Blue Cross
The Built Together Program helps Albertans create spaces for active living in their community. Built Together provides 1 $50,000 grant to a group in Edmonton, Calgary, a secondary city, a rural community and an Indigenous community. The grant funds outdoor gyms, cycling paths, construction or replacement of playgrounds, skate parks, outdoor rinks and more.
Alberta Sport Connection
The Above and Beyond Grant supports coaches and officials as they pursue educational or developmental opportunities
The Event Support Program focuses on sport program development, providing financial support to communities and associations in hosting major sport events, and as a result, promoting economic growth throughout the province.
Canadian Tire (National)
Canadian Tire JumpStart is a community-based charitable program that helps kids in financial need participate in organized sport and recreation.
Evergreen (National)
Evergreen Grants is one of Canada’s leading funders of community and school greening projects.
KidSport™ (National/Provincial)
KidSport Alberta Chapter is a not-for-profit organization that provides financial assistance for registration fees and equipment to kids aged 18 and under.
Alberta EcoTrust
The Albert EcoTrust Environmental Grants invests in environmental projects that build on the work and achievements of other organizations, projects and programs and uses shared resources to solve problems.
Parks Foundation Calgary
- The Building Communities Grant Program (which is both a grant and a support program offering free services) provides grants of up to $30,000 for community spaces like parks and playgrounds.
- The Amateur Sport Grant provides grants of up to $75,000 in support of capital projects that provide significant benefit to the continuation and enrichment of sport.
Please note, these grants are for projects within Calgary municipal boundaries or that benefit Calgary athletes.