The following is an e-mail update from the CRD Community Grant Writer which profiles current and upcoming grant funding opportunities. For more information, or if your organization would like assistance in applying for any of the grants below, please contact the Community Grant Writer.
Supports for Workers and Employers
StrongerBC Future Ready Action Plan - Future Skills Grant - Province of BC
The StrongerBC Future Skills Grant is available to most British Columbians, covering up to $3,500 in eligible short-term skills training at public post-secondary institutions. Select a program that aligns with your career goals using the program catalogue, then register directly with the public post-secondary institution. After registration, use your BC Services Card to apply for the grant online.
Visit the program website for further information.
Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Business Development Programs
NDIT offers business development programs including the Competitiveness Consulting Rebate Program and Small Business Recovery Consulting Rebate.
Visit the program website for further information.
Community Grants
*NEW – Wildfire Community Preparedness – FireSmart Canada
Wildfire Community Preparedness is a national campaign that encourages citizens to take actions that increase their home, neighbourhood and community’s resilience to wildfire. This year’s event will take place on May 3,2025.
Visit the program website for further information.
United Way Healthy Aging CORE BC – Funding to Collaborate
Funding available to Community Collaboratives that require financial support to enhance seniors-focused collaboration within their region, including costs for venue, food and facilitators. Between $1000 and $5000 available per Community Collaborative. Continuous application intake.
Visit the program website to apply.
Local Festivals: Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program – Government of Canada
Funding provided to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists, artisans, heritage performers and local First Nations. Application deadlines vary depending on anticipated festival date.
Visit the program website to apply.
Recruitment, Retention and Innovative Skills Training (RRIST) – Ministry of Social Development & Poverty Reduction through the Canada-BC Labour Market Agreement, delivered through Investment Agriculture Foundation (IAF)
The RRIST Program is a program under the Agriculture and Food Workforce Development Initiative designed to support BC’s agriculture industry to provide a stable and increasing food supply through targeted efforts to recruit and retain sufficient workforce to meet labour needs of the industry.
Applicants are required to complete a two-step application process – Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI) accepted until December 23, 2024. Step 2: Full Application – Applicants with successful EOIs will be invited to apply starting January 2025.
Visit the program website for further information and to apply.
Investment Agriculture Foundation (IAF) offers a variety of programs and services supporting British Columbia’s agriculture and agrifood sector.
Visit the program website for more information about funding opportunities.
Clean Energy Initiatives - Indigenous, Rural & Remote Communities – Government of Canada
Projects that advance Indigenous-led climate action, support local economic development and create skilled jobs while reducing pollution and improving air quality. Remaining funding is limited.
Visit the program website for further information.
Indigenous Climate and Environmental Funding – Government of Canada
Programs available to support Indigenous climate action for a safer and cleaner environment for future generations.
Visit the program website For further information
Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program – Government of Canada
The Research and Innovation Stream supports pre-market innovation, including research, development, demonstration and commercialization activities in 3 priority areas: green energy and energy efficiency; precision agriculture and bioeconomy.
Visit the program website to apply.
Community Economic Development & Diversification (CEDD) – Government of Canada / PacifiCan
Supports economic development initiatives that contribute to the economic growth and diversification of communities across British Columbia. PacifiCan assists communities to respond to economic development opportunities and adjust to changing and challenging economic circumstances.
Visit the program website for further information.
Community Action Grants – Province of BC/SPARC BC)
Funding for local planning and collaborative initiatives designed to better respond to the needs of those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Supports community-based action to respond to gaps in the current system of services and supports. Continuous application intake.
Visit the program website to apply.
Community Support Funding Programs – Community Futures North Cariboo (CFNC)
Funding programs include: Sponsorship Fund $500, Skills Development Fund $1000, Facilities & Equipment Fund $2500 and Business & Entrepreneurship Fund $5000. Applications evaluated by the Board of Directors based on Fund Criteria. Applications reviewed monthly.
Visit the program website to apply.
Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Community Development Programs
NDIT offers a range of community development and infrastructure funding programs suited to a diverse set of economic development priorities in the region. Programs include Business Façade Improvement, Community Places, Cultural Infrastructure, Economic Infrastructure, Recreation Infrastructure, Marketing Initiatives, Fabulous Festivals and Events, Main Street Revitalization – Planning and Capital.
Visit the program website for further information about all NDIT programs.
Mentor Works – Government of Canada (Businesses & Not-for-Profit Organizations)
Canadian government funding programs support small businesses, large corporations and not-for-profit organizations.
Visit the program website frequently for new resources and grant opportunities.
*Additional Websites:
Agriculture & Agrifood Government of Canada
Province of British Columbia
Climate Ready BC
United Way British Columbia