Deadline: 27-Feb-2026
The Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association Community Rink Affordability Grant supports indoor skating and curling rinks across Saskatchewan by helping offset operational costs during the 2025–2026 season. The grant provides $5,000 per ice surface to eligible communities and organizations to sustain accessible, affordable, and well-maintained ice facilities.
Overview
The Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA) is inviting applications for the Community Rink Affordability Grant (CRAG) to support the continued operation of indoor skating and curling rinks across Saskatchewan.
The program aims to strengthen vibrant, active, and connected communities by helping reduce the financial burden associated with maintaining indoor ice facilities during the winter season.
Purpose and Focus Areas
The Community Rink Affordability Grant is designed to assist eligible communities and organizations with the operational expenses required to keep indoor skating and curling rinks running.
The grant prioritizes funding that supports the day-to-day functioning of ice facilities, ensuring they remain accessible and affordable for residents while contributing to community recreation and well-being.
Grant Amount and Coverage
For the 2025–2026 operating season, the grant provides:
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$5,000 per ice surface
The funding is intended to offset eligible operating costs incurred between 1 September 2025 and 31 March 2026.
Eligible Facilities
To qualify for funding, facilities must meet the following criteria:
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Be indoor skating or curling rinks
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Have ice already installed for the operating season
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Be located within Saskatchewan
Outdoor rinks and privately owned facilities are not eligible for this grant.
Eligible Applicants
Applications must be submitted by the legal owner of the facility. Eligible applicants include:
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Municipal governments
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First Nation communities
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Canadian Forces Bases
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Registered non-profit organizations
For municipally owned rinks, applications must be submitted through the appropriate municipal office.
Eligible Expenses
Grant funding may be used only for operating costs directly related to maintaining indoor ice surfaces. Eligible expenses include:
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Wages and staffing costs
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Utilities such as electricity and heating
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Maintenance and repairs
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Supplies required for rink operation
All expenses must fall within the eligible funding period and be directly tied to rink operations.
Documentation and Accountability
Recipients are required to retain receipts or supporting documentation for all eligible expenses.
These records must be kept for auditing purposes to ensure transparency and appropriate use of public funds.
Ineligible Costs and Facilities
The Community Rink Affordability Grant does not support:
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Outdoor skating or curling rinks
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Privately owned facilities
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Expenses incurred outside the eligible funding period
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Costs unrelated to rink operations
Why This Grant Matters
Indoor skating and curling rinks play a vital role in Saskatchewan communities by promoting physical activity, social connection, and local recreation.
By supporting operational affordability, the CRAG helps ensure that these facilities remain sustainable, accessible, and welcoming for residents throughout the winter season.
Conclusion
The SPRA Community Rink Affordability Grant provides meaningful financial support to communities striving to maintain indoor skating and curling rinks across Saskatchewan. With a $5,000 grant per ice surface, the program helps cover essential operating costs and strengthens the long-term sustainability of community ice facilities.
For more information, visit SPRA.