Deadline: 01-May-2026
The Amateur Sport Grant Program supports community-based organizations in Calgary to develop sports facilities, purchase equipment, and increase participation in amateur sports. Grants of up to $75,000 (or 50% of project costs) are available for capital projects, sport development initiatives, and programs that improve access to sports for all ages. Priority is given to projects demonstrating community impact, sustainability, and financial readiness.
What is the Amateur Sport Grant Program?
The Amateur Sport Grant Program is a funding initiative designed to strengthen amateur sports in Calgary by supporting facility development, equipment acquisition, and participation initiatives. Its goals include:
- Increasing sport participation among all age groups
- Supporting capital projects for sport facilities
- Improving access to sport-related equipment
- Ensuring long-term sustainability of community sport initiatives
The program fosters community engagement and promotes a lasting sporting legacy in Calgary.
Grant Overview
- Funding Amount: Up to $75,000 or 50% of total project costs (whichever is lower)
- Eligible Uses:
- Construction, renovation, or expansion of sport facilities
- Purchase of sport-related equipment
- Projects enhancing participation or accessibility for athletes
- Funding Restrictions:
- Non-sport infrastructure (e.g., washrooms) is not eligible
- Retroactive funding for completed projects is not permitted
- Established By: Calgary Flames Foundation, Saddledome Foundation, and Parks Foundation
- Impact: Over $17.3 million awarded to 630+ community groups
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Non-profit organizations, clubs, and leagues actively engaged in amateur sport
- Schools and educational institutions (with funding caps: $20,000 for first grant; $10,000 for second matching grant)
- Community groups registered for at least three years
- Applicants who have not received funding from this program in the past three years
Applicants must demonstrate that their project benefits Calgary athletes and aligns with sport participation and development goals.
What Projects Are Supported?
Eligible projects focus on:
- Developing new sport facilities
- Renovating or expanding existing infrastructure
- Purchasing sport-related equipment
- Programs that increase participation and accessibility
Examples of eligible expenses: gym floor refinishing, installation of sport equipment, facility upgrades tied to athletic use.
Non-eligible expenses: general infrastructure unrelated to sport, retroactive funding, administrative or operational costs not linked to sport participation.
How the Grant Works
Step 1: Register with the Project Support Program
Applicants must register to receive financial management support, including:
- Invoice and expense management
- Donation processing and tax receipting
- Fundraising support
Step 2: Prepare a Project Proposal
- Describe the project clearly, including scope, expected outcomes, and target participants
- Include a budget plan with detailed cost breakdowns
- Highlight financial readiness and secured additional funding
Step 3: Submit Application
- Ensure project aligns with Calgary-based athlete needs
- Confirm project is not already started
Step 4: Review and Funding Decision
- Applications are assessed based on:
- Community need and participation impact
- Project readiness and feasibility
- Financial sustainability and co-funding
- Funding may be less than requested due to high demand
- Approved projects must use funds within a defined timeframe
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting projects outside Calgary or unrelated to amateur sport
- Requesting retroactive funding for completed initiatives
- Failing to demonstrate community benefit or participation impact
- Omitting clear budget or co-funding sources
- Not registering with the Project Support Program
FAQs
1. Who can apply for the Amateur Sport Grant?
Non-profits, clubs, leagues, schools, and community groups registered for at least three years and actively engaged in amateur sport within Calgary.
2. How much funding is available?
Up to $75,000 per project or 50% of the total project cost, whichever is lower.
3. What types of projects are eligible?
Capital projects for sport facilities, equipment purchases, and initiatives increasing participation and access to sports.
4. Are schools eligible for funding?
Yes, first-time grants are capped at $20,000; second grants are limited to $10,000 as matching funds.
5. Can retroactive funding be requested?
No. Projects must not have started or been completed before approval.
6. What is the application evaluation process?
Applications are assessed for community need, project readiness, innovation, and financial sustainability, with priority given to projects demonstrating co-funding or additional resources.
7. Is registration required before applying?
Yes, all applicants must register with the Project Support Program for administrative and financial support.
Conclusion
The Amateur Sport Grant Program is a key opportunity for Calgary community organizations to enhance sport facilities, provide essential equipment, and promote participation for all ages. With grants of up to $75,000, the program strengthens community sport infrastructure, fosters engagement, and ensures long-term sustainability of amateur sports initiatives.
For more information, visit Parks Foundation Calgary.