Deadline: 02-Mar-2026
The City of Burnaby Community Grants provide funding to non-profit organizations to support operating costs, special initiatives, and recreational programs that benefit local residents. Grants are available to Burnaby-based and eligible non-local organizations delivering programs in the city, with an emphasis on services for marginalized or at-risk groups.
Overview of the Program
The City of Burnaby Community Grants program offers financial support to non-profit organizations that enhance the well-being of residents. Grants can offset operating costs, fund specific initiatives, or support recreational sports programs. Applications are reviewed twice yearly, in April and October, with funding allocated annually in a single budgeted sum.
The program aims to strengthen organizations that provide inclusive, accessible, and impactful community programming.
Purpose and Objectives
The grants are intended to:
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Support operating expenses or fund special initiatives
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Promote recreational, educational, or social programming for residents
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Prioritize services for marginalized or at-risk groups
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Encourage collaboration and capacity-building among community organizations
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Foster programs that align with the City’s strategic priorities and policies
Who Is Eligible
Burnaby-Based Non-Profits
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Registered or charitable non-profits operating for at least one year
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Can apply for:
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One operating grant: up to 25% of annual budget, capped at $10,000
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Up to two initiative grants per year
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Combined total of operating and initiative grants cannot exceed $25,000 annually
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Religious organizations may apply if programs:
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Benefit the broader community
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Do not include religious teachings
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Do not generate revenue
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Non-Burnaby-Based Non-Profits
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Eligible for initiative grants only
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Programs must be delivered within Burnaby and benefit residents
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Funding up to $5,000 per year for facility fees
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Programs must serve marginalized or at-risk groups
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Religious organizations follow the same restrictions for community benefit and revenue
Funding Details
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Grants cover operating costs, special initiatives, or recreational sports programs
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Not eligible: past events, deficits, capital improvements
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Funding is annual and requires acknowledgment of the City’s support in promotional materials
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City logo is provided for recognition purposes
Insurance Requirement
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Successful applicants must maintain general liability insurance of at least $5,000,000
How to Apply
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Review the City’s strategic priorities and ensure alignment
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Prepare documentation demonstrating:
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Organizational registration and at least one year of operation
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Program objectives and expected community impact
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Budget and funding request amount
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Evidence of target audience, particularly underserved or at-risk groups
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Submit the application by the April or October deadline
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Await review and funding allocation
Note: Denied or partially funded applicants must wait until the following calendar year to reapply. There is no appeal process.
Why This Program Matters
The Burnaby Community Grants Program:
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Strengthens non-profit capacity to serve residents
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Supports inclusive access to programming
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Encourages innovative and sustainable initiatives for local communities
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Provides recognition and financial support to organizations enriching the lives of residents, particularly those in underserved groups
Tips for a Strong Application
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Align your proposal with the City’s strategic priorities
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Clearly define community impact, particularly for marginalized or at-risk groups
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Provide a detailed budget showing how funds will be used
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Ensure all insurance and registration requirements are met
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Highlight the sustainability and accessibility of the proposed program
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Requesting funding for past events, deficits, or capital improvements
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Submitting incomplete applications or missing deadlines
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Failing to demonstrate community benefit or alignment with City priorities
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Overlooking the requirement for general liability insurance
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Religious organizations proposing programs with teachings or revenue generation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for Burnaby Community Grants?
Registered or charitable non-profits operating for at least one year, including eligible non-local organizations delivering programs in Burnaby.
How much funding can Burnaby-based organizations receive?
Up to $10,000 for operating grants, with a maximum of $25,000 combined for operating and initiative grants per year.
Can non-Burnaby organizations apply?
Yes, for initiative grants only, up to $5,000, serving marginalized or at-risk residents.
What costs are covered by the grant?
Operating expenses, special initiatives, and recreational programs. Past events, deficits, or capital improvements are not funded.
Are religious organizations eligible?
Yes, if programs benefit the broader community without religious teachings or revenue generation.
Is insurance required?
Yes, applicants must maintain general liability coverage of at least $5,000,000.
How often can organizations apply?
Twice a year, in April and October. Denied or partially funded applicants must wait until the following calendar year.
Conclusion
The City of Burnaby Community Grants provide a meaningful opportunity for local and eligible non-local non-profits to strengthen their capacity, deliver impactful programs, and support residents—especially underserved or marginalized groups. By funding operating costs and special initiatives, the City encourages inclusive, accessible, and sustainable community programming.
For more information, visit City of Burnaby.
