Funding for Stewards

The strength of a stewardship group often lies in its ability to garner community support and access funding and donated resources for projects. This section features resources on how to develop financial sustainability for your group, tips for writing successful grant applications and some key sources of stewardship funding in Alberta.

• Financial Fitness: An Overview – Developed by Vancity, this handbook is a quick and useful overview of the elements required for a non-profit organization to be financially sustainable. Learn what you need to know about the qualities of a financially healthy non-profit organization, and how to ensure stable programming for your group to achieve its goals over time.
• Writing a Successful Grant Application – Increase your odds of securing funding for your project. This website offers clear suggestions and examples to create successful grant applications and funding proposals.

Funding Sources

Here is a list of some key organizations committed to providing funding to grassroots stewardship in Alberta.

• Alberta Conservation Association Grant Eligible Conservation Fund – Funded by the province’s hunters and anglers, the Grant Eligible Conservation Fund (GECF) supports a variety of projects which benefit Alberta’s wildlife and fish populations, as well as the habitat they depend on. The fund is separated into two categories; Part A: Conservation Support and Enhancement (applications in January) and Part B: Research (applications in November).
• Alberta Ecotrust Community Grants Program – Alberta Ecotrust offers several granting programs to support the people and projects that effectively address Alberta’s most pressing environmental issues. Application deadlines vary by program.
• Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) Community Contributions – Apply online for small donations of MEC products or gift cards to raise funds or reward volunteers, or submit an application for MEC Capacity Building or Advocacy and Education Grants. Annual deadlines in March and September.
• TD Friends of the Environment – The TD Friends of the Environment Foundation (TD FEF) is a national organization with a uniquely local focus. There are six TD FEF chapters in Alberta, each with its own Local Advisory Board that reviews applications based on the specific needs of the environment in their community. The Foundation has a grassroots focus that funds community projects dedicated to preserving the environment. Applications reviewed quarterly each year.
• Watershed Stewardship Grant Program – Land Stewardship Centre’s Watershed Stewardship Grant Program is made possible through the Government of Alberta’s Water for Life Strategy. Grants of up to $7,500 are awarded to watershed stewardship groups which are working in their communities to raise awareness of local watershed issues or improve the condition of their local watershed. Applications accepted in January.

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