Funding Opportunities

Heritage conservation is a foundation of sustainable communities and is most successful when aligned with other community sustainability initiatives. Consider searching beyond the traditional boundaries of ‘heritage’ funding to access opportunities available through initiatives fostering climate action, community health and economic diversification for instance. 

The following list is a selection of funding opportunities sourced from local, regional, provincial and federal governments, as well as corporate and non-profit sectors.  For specific eligibility criteria, contact the organization directly. 

Information on this page undergoes periodic review and is subject to change; new information will be added as it is made available to our webmaster.

Federal Funding Opportunities offered through Canadian Heritage – searchable database:

Objective/Abstract

The Department plays a vital role in the cultural and civic life of Canadians. Canadian Heritage offers financial support to organizations who contribute to departmental objectives related to culture, arts, heritage, official languages, citizenship and participation, Aboriginal, youth, and sport initiatives.

For more information, visit: http://www.pch.gc.ca/eng/1266236603663/1266193154466

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Benjamin Moore Community Restoration Program

Objective/Abstract

Benjamin Moore and Co., Limited and Community Foundations of Canada share more than a decade of history together as partners in The Benjamin Moore Community Restoration Program, a granting program to support heritage restoration and community projects in Canada.

Local community foundations identify restoration and renovation projects and Benjamin Moore provides paint, expertise and financial support. The program is offered in different target communities each year and administered by CFC.

The application process for the 2012 Benjamin Moore Community Restoration Program will begin in late 2011.

For more information, visit: http://www.cfc-fcc.ca/programs/benjamin-moore.html

Current as of: July 21, 2011

Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage

Objective/Abstract

The Government of Canada's Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program supports activities and projects that celebrate local historical heritage, as well as local artists and artisans, and are intended for and accessible to the general public.

For more information, visit: http://www.pch.gc.ca/eng/1267799042836

Current as of: November 30, 2010

BC Arts Council
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development

Objective/Abstract

The BC Arts Council supports professional, non-profit public museums that sustain an annual curatorial and public program encompassing creation, development, presentation, collections and dissemination activities.

There are two kinds of funding programs: Operating, which provides annual grants to established organizations, and Project, which are one-time grants that target a specific performance, show or project. As well, the BC Arts Council has programs that encourage innovation, support regional initiatives, touring, training and sustainability. 

For more information, visit: http://www.bcartscouncil.ca/index.htm

Current as of: November 30, 2010

Canada Foundation for Innovation

Objective/Abstract

The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) is an independent corporation created by the Government of Canada to fund research infrastructure. The CFI's mandate is to strengthen the capacity of Canadian universities, colleges, research hospitals, and non-profit research institutions to carry out world-class research and technology development that benefits Canadians. Since its creation in 1997, the CFI has committed $5.3 billion in support of 6,800 projects at 130 research institutions in 65 municipalities across Canada. Research infrastructure consists of the state-of-the-art equipment, buildings, laboratories, and databases required to conduct research.

The research enabled by CFI support is also creating the necessary conditions for sustainable, long-term economic growth, including the creation of spin-off ventures and the commercialization of discoveries, and supporting improvements to society, quality of life, health, the environment, and public policy. 

For more information, visit: http://www.innovation.ca/en/programs/funds

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Canadian Heritage Information Network - Virtual Museums

Objective/Abstract

The Virtual Museum of Canada Investment Programs support the efforts of museums to create engaging online content through strategic investments.

CHIN operates two investment programs that enable CHIN member institutions to develop

Current as of: February 10, 2011

CivicInfo BC

Objective/Abstract

The grants database on the CivicInfo BC website lists only grants available to BC local governments, and it does not include grant opportunities for other community-based groups.

For more information, visit: http://www.civicinfo.bc.ca/18.asp

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Cost Sharing Program
Parks Canada

Objective/Abstract

The Guidelines and Application Forms are now available for the next application round. The deadline to submit an application is Tuesday, November 1, 2011.

The Parks Canada's National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program is a contribution program whereby up to 50% of eligible costs incurred in the conservation and presentation of a national historic site, are paid to the site owner in the form of reimbursements. Eligible recipients are incorporated not-for-profit organizations, other levels of government, and not-for-profit aboriginal organizations.

Projects eligible for funding include those intended to develop technical and planning documents agreed by Parks Canada as necessary to ensure the site's commemorative integrity, and conservation projects to preserve, rehabilitate and/or restore components of a national historic site in order to ensure its commemorative integrity. Conservation projects may also include the development and implementation of presentation projects that focus on communicating to the public the reasons for designation as a national historic site.

For more information, visit: http://www.pc.gc.ca/progs/lhn-nhs/ppf-csp/index_e.asp

Current as of: July 13, 2011

Columbia Basin Trust
Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance

Objective/Abstract

The Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance (CKCA) delivers the arts, culture and heritage funding program on behalf of Columbia Basin Trust. This program includes a number of funding streams including funding to individuals or groups through community arts councils, minor capital projects, touring, mentoring, exhibits, and two major projects per year. CBT funds also support organizational development and assists in sponsoring the ArtStarts program in Basin schools.

For more information, visit: http://www.cbt.org/Funding/?Programs

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Direct Access Major Capital Project GrantBC
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General

Objective/Abstract

Gaming grants are designed to fit the needs of a wide variety of non-profit organizations throughout British Columbia. Human and social services, youth arts and culture, fairs, festivals and museums, public safety, and students' extra-curricular activities — all these areas are supported through gaming grants to community organizations.

For more information, visit: http://www.hsd.gov.bc.ca/gaming/grants/community-gaming.htm

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Evergreen

Objective/Abstract

Evergreen is a not-for-profit organization that makes cities more liveable. By deepening the connection between people and nature, and empowering Canadians to take a hands-on approach to their urban environments, Evergreen is improving the health of our cities—now and for the future.

For more information, visit: http://www.evergreen.ca/en/funding/grants/

Current as of: August 26, 2010

Green Municipal Fund
Federation of Canadian Municipalities

Objective/Abstract

Through GMF, FCM provides funding to three types of environmental initiatives: plans, studies and projects. Grants are available for sustainable community plans, feasibility studies and field tests, while a combination of grants and loans are available for capital projects. Funding is allocated in five sectors of municipal activity: brown fields, energy, transportation, waste and water.

For more information, visit:
http://www.sustainablecommunities.fcm.ca/Funding-Opportunities/

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Heritage BC

Objective/Abstract

Heritage BC provides news, columns and articles about important issues and other resources for the heritage conservation community in British Columbia.

For more information, visit: http://www.heritagebc.ca/funding/

Current as of: September 8, 2010

Heritage Legacy Fund

Objective/Abstract

The Heritage Legacy Fund of British Columbia is an initiative of the Heritage BC and The Land Conservancy that supports many local heritage projects around the province. It provides financial assistance and guidance to help protect, care for and showcase British Columbia's rich cultural heritage.

For more information, visit: www.heritagelegacyfund.ca

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Infrastructure Grants
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development

Objective/Abstract

The Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development provides infrastructure funding to local governments through a variety of grant programs.  For more detailed information on funding for local governments please consult the Local Government Grants Act and regulations. Hard copies of these publications may be obtained by contacting Crown Publications at (250) 386-4636.

For more information, visit: http://www.cd.gov.bc.ca/lgd/infra/infrastructure_grants/

Current as of: November 30, 2010

Island Coastal Economic Trust

Objective/Abstract

The objective of the Trust is to be a catalyst and partner for sustainable regional economic development. The purpose of the Regional Account (where Trust funds are held) is to invest in the following defined “sectors” in the Trust area:

•  Forestry
•  Transportation
•  Tourism
•  Mining
•  Olympic Opportunities
•  Small Business
•  Economic Development
•  Energy
•  Agriculture (including Aquaculture) 

For more information, visit: http://www.islandcoastaltrust.ca/

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Mountain Equipment Coop Community Contributions

Objective/Abstract

Application deadline is September 10, 2011 for applications for Land Acquisition, Capacity Building, Research, Advocacy and Education, and Access. Urban Sustainability and Grassroots Product Donations applications are accepted anytime.

For more information, visit:
http://www.mec.ca/Main/content_text.jsp?FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396038943

Current as of: July 13, 2011

Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society

Objective/Abstract

The Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society is a grant-making agency that assists the people of North West British Columbia, and in particular the Nechako region and Kitamaat Village, by sponsoring sustainable economic and community stability projects in the area most affected by the Kemano project and the creation of the Nechako Reservoir.

For more information, visit: http://www.nkdf.org/

Current as of: August 25, 2010

New Horizons for Seniors Call for Proposals

Objective/Abstract

The New Horizons for Seniors Program is a federal Grants and Contributions program that supports projects led or inspired by seniors who make a difference in their communities and in the lives of others.

For more information visit: http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/community_partnerships/seniors/index.shtml

Current as of: July 13, 2011

The Northern Development Initiative Trust

Objective/Abstract

Northern Development offers funding to municipalities, regional districts, First Nations, not-for-profit organizations and public authorities to support sustainable economic development and diversification throughout central and northern British Columbia.

For more information, visit: http://www.nditrust.ca/

Current as of: August 25, 2010

New call for proposals for the Strategic Initiatives component:  Canadian Heritage Department

Objective/Abstract

The Canada Cultural Investment Fund (CCIF) launches a new call for proposals for its Strategic Initiatives component.

Arts and heritage organizations now have until October 3, 2011 to submit proposals for projects with activities starting after October 1, 2012. Since 2010-2011, Strategic Initiatives, one of the four components of the CCIF, has provided not-for-profit cultural organizations with financial support to help them become better rooted in their communities. These projects are intended to help them to be better equipped with tools to strengthen their management abilities, harness new technologies and diversify their revenues.

For more information on the component's objectives, eligibility criteria and forms, please visit www.pch.gc.ca/pgm/fcic-ccif/is-si-eng.cfm or contact a CCIF program officer at 1-866-811-0055 or at fcic-ccif@pch.gc.ca.

Current as of: July 13, 2011

Royal Canadian Geographical Society Canadian Award for Environmental Innovation

Objective/Abstract

The Canadian Award for Environmental Innovation was established in 2009 by The Royal Canadian Geographical Society and 3M Canada to recognize outstanding individuals in business, government, academia or community organizations whose innovative contributions to environmental change are benefiting Canada and Canadians. The Award seeks to celebrate individuals involved in a local, regional or national project, program or initiative that has provided innovative solutions that protect, restore or preserve the environment.

For more information, visit: http://www.rcgs.org/awards/environmental_innovation/default.asp

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Rural BC Secretariat

Objective/Abstract

Grants are a rich resource for funding. Use this grant search tool to connect with a wide range of funding opportunities. You can narrow the search by grant description, name, subject area or the application deadline.

For more information, visit: http://www.ruralbc.gov.bc.ca/granttool.html

Current as of: September 8, 2010

Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust

Objective/Abstract

The SIDIT grant program provides non-repayable funding for municipalities, regional districts, First Nations, registered non-profit societies, institutions, and industry associations to support regionally strategic investments in economic development projects that will have long-lasting and measurable regional benefits for the Southern Interior. Please note that proposals from private interests do not qualify for grants. Private interests include all forms of business ownership such as corporations, partnerships, joint ventures and sole proprietorships.

For more information, visit: http://www.sidit-bc.ca

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Smart Development Partnerships
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development

Objective/Abstract

The program contributes to broad provincial goals by facilitating projects that promote sustainable and healthy communities, environmentally sensitive development and encourage economic development. SDP projects include water conservation through effective land use planning and management. Citizen health and air quality is protected by supporting land use patterns that encourage walking and bicycle use. SDP projects also help build local economies by streamlining the development approval process. More effective processes stimulate private sector investment. Greater investment and increased economic activity leads to increased job opportunities.

For more information, visit: http://www.cd.gov.bc.ca/lgd/intergov_relations/smart_development/index.htm

Current as of: November 30, 2010

Tourism Cares Grant Program

Objective/Abstract

Tourism Cares exists to preserve the travel experience for future generations. We award grants to non-profits around the world, provide scholarships to the future workforce of travel, tourism and hospitality, and organize tourism industry volunteer events so we can stop saying "there used to be."

A vital part of the Tourism Cares mission is to distribute grants to worthy non-profit, tax exempt, organizations for conservation, preservation, restoration, or education at tourism-related sites of exceptional cultural, historic, or natural significance around the world.

For more information, visit: http://www.tourismcares.org/grants

Current as of: February 10, 2011

Towns for Tomorrow
Act Now BC

Objective/Abstract

Towns for Tomorrow provides funding for infrastructure projects that address climate change and contribute to the overall health, sustainability and livability of communities. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:

• water projects
• wastewater projects
• public transit projects
• environmental energy improvement projects
• local road projects
• recreation and cultural projects
• tourism projects
• protective and emergency services infrastructure projects
• community development projects

For more information, visit: http://www.townsfortomorrow.gov.bc.ca/

Current as of: August 25, 2010

Vancouver Foundation
Generation Green Awards

Objective/Abstract

Vancouver Foundation's new Generation Green Awards celebrate young ideas for green neighbourhoods in the city of Vancouver. This special, one-time initiative will provide cash awards of up to $12,500 for environmental projects in Vancouver created by young people aged 6 to 24.

For more information, visit: http://www.vancouverfoundationawards.ca/

Current as of: February 10, 2011

The War of 1812 Commemoration Fund

Objective/Abstract

The Government of Canada has many initiatives underway to mark the 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812. One of these initiatives is the creation, under the Department of Canadian Heritage, of the 1812 Commemoration Fund to fund community-based projects that commemorate the War of 1812. The goal of the Fund is to foster greater awareness and understanding among Canadians of the importance of the War of 1812 in our history.

The 1812 Commemoration Fund, a three-year funding initiative ending on March 31, 2014, is administered by the Federal Secretariat, 200th Anniversary of the War of 1812. The fund complements other programs within the Department of Canadian Heritage that offer funding opportunities for projects related to the War of 1812.

For more information, visit: http://1812.gc.ca/eng/1314811712697/1314980859986

Current as of: November 24, 2011