Submissions open for Trails Manitoba Grant Program 2026 (Canada)

The Trails Grant for Manitoba 2026 provides funding to municipalities and non-profit organizations to develop, maintain, and enhance recreational trails across the province. With a focus on health, environmental stewardship, and community development, this grant supports projects that improve accessibility, safety, and the overall trail experience.

Overview

The Trails Grant for Manitoba is a provincial funding program designed to strengthen and expand Manitoba’s recreational trail network. By supporting projects that enhance the trail experience, the program aims to deliver physical, social, environmental, and economic benefits to communities and visitors.

Program Objectives

The grant prioritizes projects that:

Develop new trail opportunities, including extensions, improvements, or creation of entirely new pathways.
Enhance existing trails through safety upgrades, better signage, wayfinding systems, and expanded accessibility.
Support essential maintenance, such as pruning, erosion repair, surface fixes, drainage improvements, and signage replacement.
Promote environmental awareness and responsible use of natural resources.
Foster community engagement and tourism while encouraging physical activity for all ages.

Funding Details

Total Funding Available (2026): Approximately $220,000
Maximum Grant per Project: $15,000
Priority Areas: Trail maintenance, feasibility studies, and trail enhancements
Eligible Expenses: Safety upgrades, accessibility improvements, signage, routine maintenance, trail construction, and environmental conservation activities

Who is Eligible?

Funding is available for:

Municipal governments in Manitoba
Non-profit associations, including trail groups, recreation associations, sport organizations, and community clubs

Ineligible Applicants:

Provincial government bodies
For-profit organizations
Individuals
Entities without established operations in Manitoba

Why This Grant Matters

The Trails Grant supports multiple community and societal goals:

Health Benefits: Encourages physical activity, promoting mental, psychological, and social well-being.
Environmental Awareness: Supports conservation practices and sustainable interaction with natural areas.
Community Development: Enhances social cohesion through accessible and safe recreational spaces.
Economic Opportunities: Boosts tourism and stimulates local economies through improved trail infrastructure.

How to Apply / How It Works

Identify a Project: Select a trail-related project that aligns with program objectives.
Prepare Your Proposal: Include project description, objectives, timeline, budget, and anticipated outcomes.
Submit Application: Ensure eligibility requirements are met, including organizational type and operational status in Manitoba.
Evaluation: Projects are reviewed based on relevance, impact, feasibility, and alignment with trail improvement goals.
Funding Allocation: Successful applicants will receive up to $15,000 per project.

Tips for Successful Applications

Clearly demonstrate how the project improves trail accessibility, safety, or user experience.
Highlight environmental stewardship initiatives and community engagement strategies.
Provide detailed budgets and timelines.
Show alignment with the program’s objectives, particularly for maintenance, enhancements, or new trail development.
Include measurable outcomes to demonstrate project impact.

FAQ

Q1: Can for-profit organizations apply for the grant?
A: No, only municipalities and registered non-profit organizations are eligible.

Q2: Is there a minimum project size?
A: The program does not specify a minimum; however, the project must align with the grant objectives and justify the funding request.

Q3: Can the grant fund new trail construction?
A: Yes, projects can include entirely new pathways or extensions to existing trails.

Q4: Are maintenance projects eligible?
A: Yes, maintenance such as pruning, erosion repair, and signage replacement is prioritized.

Q5: Can multiple organizations collaborate on a project?
A: Yes, collaborative proposals are encouraged, provided all partners meet eligibility requirements.

Q6: Is there a reporting requirement for funded projects?
A: Yes, recipients must provide updates and final reports demonstrating outcomes and use of funds.

Q7: When will funds be disbursed?
A: Disbursement timelines will be provided upon approval of the application.

Conclusion

The Trails Grant for Manitoba 2026 is an important initiative for enhancing recreational infrastructure while promoting health, environmental stewardship, and community development. By funding projects that improve trails and expand accessibility, this program enables communities to create sustainable outdoor spaces that benefit current residents and future generations.