Deadline: 01-Feb-2026
The Amateur Sport Grant Program in Calgary provides funding for organizations to enhance amateur sports through facility development, equipment purchases, and renovations. Grants of up to $125,000 or 50% of project costs help non-profits, clubs, leagues, and schools improve access, quality, and sustainability of sport programs for Calgary athletes.
Program Overview
The Amateur Sport Grant Program is designed to support the growth and sustainability of amateur athletics in Calgary. Established to create an Olympic legacy from the operations of the Saddledome, the program is a partnership between the Calgary Flames Hockey Club, the Saddledome Foundation, and Parks Foundation Calgary. Since its inception, the program has awarded $18 million to local organizations.
The program focuses on:
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Construction of new sport facilities
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Expansion or improvement of existing facilities
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Purchase of sport-specific equipment
Funding Details
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Maximum grant per project: $125,000 or 50% of the total project budget (whichever is less)
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Priority is given to projects:
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Enhancing sport facilities
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Demonstrating confirmed funding from other sources
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Parks Foundation Calgary reviews financial health of applicants and may request additional documentation
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
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Non-profit organizations, sport clubs, and leagues
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Educational institutions and other entities serving Calgary athletes
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Organizations registered for at least three years
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Applicants must have objectives focused on sport development, particularly for young athletes
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Organizations must not have received an Amateur Sport Grant in the past three years
Special School Guidelines:
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First grant: up to $20,000
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Second matching grant: up to $10,000
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No third grant is allowed
Eligible Projects
Projects must directly enhance access to sport and may include:
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New facility construction
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Renovation or expansion of existing facilities
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Purchase of sport-specific equipment
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Sport-related portions of larger projects (e.g., gym floor refinishing)
Ineligible items:
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Non-sport-related elements (e.g., washroom development)
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Projects outside Calgary or not clearly benefiting Calgary athletes
Community rink projects:
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Eligible under the Calgary Flames Rink Award
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Unsuccessful rink applicants are automatically considered for the general Amateur Sport Grant
How to Apply
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Confirm your organization’s eligibility (non-profit, registered ≥3 years, serving Calgary athletes)
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Prepare a detailed project plan including:
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Description of facility or equipment improvements
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Budget breakdown and funding sources
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Expected impact on Calgary athletes
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Submit application to Parks Foundation Calgary before the specified deadline
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Include additional financial documents if requested
Key Considerations
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Projects must enhance accessibility and quality of sport facilities or programs
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Applicants must demonstrate financial stability
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Funding may be partial; not all projects are guaranteed support
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Schools have specific limits on grant amounts and number of awards
FAQ
1. What is the maximum funding available?
$125,000 or 50% of the project cost, whichever is lower.
2. Who can apply for the grant?
Non-profits, sport clubs, leagues, and educational institutions registered for at least three years serving Calgary athletes.
3. Can schools apply?
Yes. First grant up to $20,000, second matching grant up to $10,000, but no third grant is allowed.
4. What types of projects are eligible?
Facility construction, renovation, expansion, or sport-specific equipment purchases.
5. Are partial project elements eligible?
Yes, if they are directly sport-related, such as gym floor refinishing.
6. What if a project is not fully funded?
Partial funding may be awarded; priority is given to projects with confirmed additional funding sources.
7. Are community rinks eligible?
Yes, under the Calgary Flames Rink Award, with unsuccessful applicants considered for the general Amateur Sport Grant Program.
Conclusion
The Calgary Amateur Sport Grant Program provides a vital opportunity for organizations to enhance facilities, equipment, and access to sports for local athletes. By supporting capital projects, the program contributes to the growth, safety, and sustainability of amateur athletics across Calgary.
For more information, visit Parks Foundation Calgary.