Deadline: 31-Dec-2026
The Community Development Program helps Basin communities address local challenges and opportunities through well-planned and impactful projects.
It supports initiatives that:
- Strengthen community wellbeing
- Improve local infrastructure and assets
- Encourage strategic community planning
- Support inclusive development
- Build long-term regional resilience
The programme is designed to deliver broad public benefit across the Columbia Basin Trust region.
Key Funding Areas
The programme supports four main project types:
1. Strategic Community Projects
Projects that address major community needs or opportunities with broad public impact.
2. Planning Projects
Initiatives that prepare for future implementation of tangible community developments.
3. Capital Projects
Includes construction, renovation, and improvement of community assets.
4. Equipment Purchases
Supports tools and equipment that improve service delivery and operational efficiency.
Priority Considerations
Projects are more likely to be funded if they include:
- Indigenous partnerships or Indigenous perspectives
- Climate resilience and sustainability practices
- Job creation or training opportunities
- Strong community collaboration
- Clear implementation readiness
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include:
- Registered non-profit organisations
- Local governments within the Columbia Basin Trust region
- Indigenous Communities in the region
Funding Model
Key features of the funding approach:
- Applications accepted year-round
- Funding continues until fully allocated
- Trust does not usually act as sole funder
- Co-funding and partnerships are encouraged
Applicants are expected to show:
- Community support
- Additional funding sources
- Strong organisational capacity
Eligible Costs
Eligible costs include:
- Direct project implementation expenses
- Planning and design costs
- Capital construction and renovation costs
- Equipment purchases tied to project delivery
Ineligible Costs
The programme does not fund:
- Retroactive costs (before approval)
- Core operational expenses (wages, rent, utilities)
- Routine repairs or replacements
- Political or advocacy activities
- Travel-related expenses
- Sports teams or tournaments
- Community festivals or celebrations
- Fundraising donations
- Projects benefiting only the applicant organisation
- Projects covered by other CBT programmes (except Resident Directed Grants)
- Government obligation replacement projects
- Local government infrastructure projects
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Identify a community need or opportunity
- Design a strategic or capital project with clear outcomes
- Demonstrate community support and partnerships
- Secure additional funding where possible
- Confirm implementation readiness
- Submit an application through the Columbia Basin Trust program
Strong applications show:
- Clear community benefit
- Financial partnership support
- Strong planning and feasibility
- Long-term sustainability
- Capacity for successful delivery
Tips for Applicants
To improve your application:
- Focus on practical, implementation-ready projects
- Demonstrate strong community backing
- Include Indigenous collaboration where appropriate
- Provide a clear funding mix (not sole reliance on CBT)
- Show measurable long-term impact
- Ensure project aligns with regional priorities
Avoid proposals that lack community benefit, rely solely on CBT funding, or include ineligible costs.
FAQ
Who can apply?
Registered non-profits, local governments, and Indigenous Communities in the Columbia Basin Trust region can apply.
Is funding available year-round?
Yes. Applications are accepted continuously until funds are fully committed.
What types of projects are funded?
Strategic, planning, capital, and equipment-based community development projects are supported.
Does the program fund full project costs?
No. The Trust generally does not act as the sole funder and expects co-funding or partnerships.
Are operating costs eligible?
No. Core operating expenses such as wages, rent, and utilities are not eligible.
Are festivals or sports events funded?
No. Festivals, celebrations, sports teams, and tournaments are not eligible.
Conclusion
The Columbia Basin Trust Community Development Program supports impactful, community-led projects that strengthen infrastructure, planning, and wellbeing across the Basin region. By prioritising strategic planning, capital development, and partnership-based funding, the programme helps communities deliver long-term benefits and sustainable regional growth.
For more information, visit Columbia Basin Trust.