CFPs: Community Grants Program (Canada)

Deadline: 01-Sep-2026

The Calgary Foundation Community Grants Program provides funding support to registered charities and qualified donees delivering projects that strengthen communities, improve wellbeing, and build organizational capacity across Calgary and eligible surrounding regions. Grants support existing programmes, new initiatives, collaboration, technology, leadership development, capital improvements, and community-focused solutions.

About the Calgary Foundation Community Grants Program

The Calgary Foundation Community Grants Program supports charitable organisations working to create positive social impact and strengthen communities.

The programme provides financial support for projects that:

• Address community needs.
• Improve quality of life.
• Strengthen charitable organisations.
• Encourage collaboration and innovation.
• Support sustainable community development.

Funding is available for both ongoing programmes and new initiatives that create meaningful benefits for communities.

Purpose of the Program

The programme aims to strengthen the charitable sector by supporting projects that improve:

• Community wellbeing.
• Social inclusion.
• Organisational capacity.
• Local problem-solving.
• Community partnerships.

The programme encourages organisations to develop practical solutions to challenges affecting Calgary and surrounding communities.

Supported Project Areas

Eligible projects may include activities related to:

Program Delivery and Expansion

Funding can support:

• Existing community programmes.
• Expansion of successful services.
• Development of new services.
• Improved approaches to community support.

Organisational Development

Support may be provided for:

• Leadership development.
• Staff training.
• Capacity building.
• Strategic planning.
• Organisational improvements.

Technology and Equipment

Funding may support:

• Digital technology.
• Specialised equipment.
• Tools required for programme delivery.
• Technology improvements.

Capital and Infrastructure Support

Eligible costs may include:

• Renovations.
• Capital improvements.
• Accessibility upgrades.
• Community facility improvements.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

Projects may focus on:

• Community participation.
• Partnership development.
• Public policy dialogue.
• Collaborative initiatives.

Priority Community Issues

The Calgary Foundation gives attention to projects addressing important community priorities, including:

• Cost of living challenges.
• Community belonging and wellbeing.
• Environmental sustainability.
• Safety.
• Volunteerism and philanthropy.
• Arts and culture.

Special interest areas include:

• Food security.
• Employment support.
• Affordable housing.
• Mental health.
• Reducing social isolation.
• Water management.

Funding Details

The programme provides:

• Minimum grant amount: $10,000.
• Maximum grant amount: $200,000.
• Average grant request: Approximately $75,000.

Multi-year funding requests may be considered.

Most funded projects generally run for:

• 12 to 18 months.

Eligible project expenses must begin:

• On or after 1 January 2027.

Eligible Expenses

Funding may support:

• Staff salaries.
• Programme materials.
• Equipment.
• Administration costs.
• Accessibility improvements.
• Consultants.
• Technology.
• Renovations.
• Capital costs.
• Other approved project expenses.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

• Registered Canadian charities.
• Qualified donees.
• Eligible charitable organisations operating in Canada.

Applicants must have:

• At least one year of incorporation.
• At least one year of operations.
• At least one year of service delivery experience.

Eligible Geographic Areas

Projects must benefit communities located in:

• Calgary.
• Banff National Park.
• Canmore.
• Rocky View County.
• Municipal District of Bighorn.
• Municipal District of Foothills.
• Kananaskis.
• Wheatland.
• Treaty 7 First Nations.

Partnership Eligibility

Alberta non-profit societies without charitable status may apply if they partner with:

• A registered charity.
• A qualified donee.

The charitable partner must support and participate in the project.

How to Apply

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Applicants should confirm:

• Their organisation meets charity or qualified donee requirements.
• Their project benefits eligible communities.
• Activities align with programme priorities.

Step 2: Prepare Project Information

Applications should explain:

• Community need.
• Project objectives.
• Planned activities.
• Expected outcomes.
• Budget requirements.
• Partnerships involved.

Step 3: Submit Application

Applications are submitted through the:

• Calgary Foundation Online Grant Portal.

Eligible applicants may submit applications through different formats, including:

• Written applications.
• Video applications.
• Audio applications.
• Oral application options.

Assessment Process

Applications are reviewed based on:

• Strength of project rationale.
• Community need.
• Project design.
• Implementation plan.
• Expected impact.
• Partnerships and collaboration.

The review process includes:

• Calgary Foundation staff assessment.
• Volunteer committee review.
• Grant Advisory Committee discussion for shortlisted applicants.

Why This Program Matters

Community organisations play an important role in addressing local challenges and improving social wellbeing.

The Calgary Foundation Community Grants Program helps organisations:

• Expand important services.
• Reach underserved communities.
• Develop innovative solutions.
• Strengthen community connections.
• Build long-term organisational sustainability.

By supporting local initiatives, the programme contributes to stronger and more resilient communities.

Application Tips

Applicants should:

• Clearly explain the community problem being addressed.
• Show measurable benefits and outcomes.
• Demonstrate community involvement.
• Include realistic budgets.
• Highlight partnerships and collaboration.
• Explain how the project will continue after funding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

• Applying without confirming eligibility.
• Submitting unclear project objectives.
• Failing to explain community impact.
• Providing incomplete budgets.
• Ignoring programme priority areas.
• Not demonstrating organisational capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Calgary Foundation Community Grants Program?

It is a funding programme that supports charities and qualified donees delivering projects that strengthen communities and improve local wellbeing.

How much funding can organisations receive?

Eligible organisations can request between $10,000 and $200,000, including possible multi-year funding.

Who can apply for the grant?

Registered Canadian charities and qualified donees can apply. Some Alberta non-profit societies may apply through partnerships with eligible charitable organisations.

What types of projects are supported?

The programme supports community programmes, organisational development, technology improvements, capital projects, collaboration, and initiatives addressing social and environmental challenges.

Can funding support staff salaries?

Yes. Eligible project-related salary costs may be supported.

Where must projects take place?

Projects must benefit Calgary or eligible surrounding regions, including specified municipalities and Treaty 7 First Nations.

What happens after receiving funding?

Successful applicants must submit a final report explaining project outcomes, lessons learned, and financial details.

Conclusion

The Calgary Foundation Community Grants Program provides important financial support for charities and community organisations working to improve social wellbeing, strengthen local services, and create lasting community impact. Organisations with innovative ideas, strong partnerships, and clear community benefits can use this funding opportunity to expand programmes, improve capacity, and respond to important local challenges.

For more information, visit Calgary Foundation.