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City of Lethbridge’s Community Event Support Grant Program (Canada)

Deadline: 31-Jan-2026

The City of Lethbridge Community Event Support Grant provides matching funding of up to $7,500 for non-profit organizations delivering community-focused events that enhance local culture, pride, and connection. The program supports sports events, festivals, conferences, and advocacy gatherings that benefit residents and align with the City’s vision. Funding is distributed across three intake periods in 2025, with a total budget of $97,500.

Overview

The City of Lethbridge recognizes the key role that community events play in strengthening social ties, promoting cultural expression, and enriching civic life. The Community Event Support Grant provides financial assistance to not-for-profit organizations hosting events that unite residents, stimulate the local economy, and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive city.

This program funds event delivery, not operational or administrative expenses unrelated to the event itself. All initiatives must take place within Lethbridge and primarily benefit local residents.

Key Funding Details

  • Total 2025 Funding: $97,500

  • Maximum Grant: Up to $7,500 (matching funds not exceeding 50% of total event budget)

  • Payment Structure:

    • 50% upfront

    • 50% after final report approval

  • Intake Period Allocations:

    • Intake 1: Up to $60,000

    • Intake 2: $18,750

    • Intake 3: $18,750

  • Events must occur at least 30 days after the application deadline

Eligible Event Types

Events must be non-commercial, inclusive, and community-benefit oriented. Examples include:

1. Sports Events

  • Local or regional competitions

  • Tournaments that attract visiting participants

2. Community Festivals

  • Events with a central theme

  • Activities requiring strong community engagement

3. Conferences

  • Accessible learning or networking opportunities

  • Must benefit Lethbridge residents

4. Advocacy Events

  • Must be non-political, non-religious, and non-divisive

  • Must demonstrate broad community benefit

Who Can Apply?

Eligible Applicants

  • Registered not-for-profit organizations in good standing

  • Groups formally affiliated with an eligible non-profit

  • Organisations showing strong community support, such as:

    • Volunteer involvement

    • Local participation

    • Financial or in-kind contributions

Ineligible Applicants

  • Commercial businesses

  • Political groups

  • Schools and school-related bodies

  • Religious institutions

  • Municipal departments

  • Events with exclusive interests (e.g., weddings, private parties, commercial expos)

Eligible Costs

Funding may support:

  • City services (permits, safety, waste management)

  • Facility and venue rentals

  • Stage, lighting, and sound equipment

  • Event marketing and communications

  • Event bidding and hosting costs

Events must be distinct and cannot duplicate existing City-supported celebrations.

How the Program Works

1. Application Submission

Applicants must:

  • Submit before the intake deadline

  • Schedule the event 30+ days after the deadline

  • Demonstrate community demand, benefit, and alignment with City priorities

2. Evaluation Process

Applications are scored based on:

  • Community impact

  • Accessibility and inclusivity

  • Budget clarity and financial need

  • Volunteer and partner engagement

  • Unique value and event distinctiveness

Eligibility does not guarantee funding; awards depend on available funds and scoring.

3. Funding Release

  • 50% upfront upon approval

  • 50% after final event report is submitted and accepted

If the event generates profit, the second disbursement may be reduced to avoid overfunding.

4. Reporting Requirements

A final report must include:

  • Attendance figures

  • Financial statements

  • Event outcomes

  • Community impact evidence

Unused funds must be returned for reinvestment in future programs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying for events scheduled too soon

  • Submitting incomplete budgets or lacking in-kind contribution details

  • Proposing religious, political, or commercially driven events

  • Not demonstrating community support or volunteer involvement

  • Requesting funds for general operations instead of event delivery

  • Duplicate or similar event proposals already funded by other City programs

FAQ

1. What is the maximum funding available per event?

Up to $7,500, not exceeding 50% of the event’s total budget.

2. Can a new or first-time event apply?

Yes. Both new and recurring events are eligible.

3. Can events be held outside Lethbridge?

No. All supported events must occur within the City of Lethbridge.

4. Are for-profit businesses eligible?

No. Only not-for-profit organizations or groups formally affiliated with one may apply.

5. Can religious or political events receive funding?

No. Events must be non-religious, non-political, and non-divisive.

6. What happens if my event makes a profit?

Your final payment may be reduced to prevent excess revenue.

7. Can an event receive funding from multiple City programs?

No. Events funded through this grant cannot apply to other City of Lethbridge programs.

Conclusion

The Community Event Support Grant underscores Lethbridge’s commitment to fostering inclusive, engaging, and culturally meaningful events that enrich the lives of residents. By supporting non-profit organizations in delivering accessible and impactful programming, the City strengthens community bonds, promotes local pride, and contributes to a thriving cultural and economic landscape.

For more information, visit City of Lethbridge.