The Town of Banff has officially opened the application period for its 2026 Community Grants program, offering funding opportunities for local groups and individuals working to improve the community. Residents and organizations have until April 30, 2026, to submit their proposals for projects that support arts, recreation, social services, and environmental initiatives.
The grant program is divided into three specific streams to reach a variety of community needs. Municipal Community Wellbeing Grants offer up to $10,000 for registered non-profits, charities, and societies. Building Bridges grants, supported by the Family and Community Support Services program, provide up to $2,000 for individuals and non-registered community groups. Additionally, Positive Environment Impact grants provide up to $10,000 to support local environmental projects.
All applications are reviewed by a five-member Community Grants Committee, which includes Cheryl Elli, Hana Kujawa, Laura Ouellette, Helen Fernandes, and Joanna McBride. The committee evaluates the proposals and provides funding recommendations to the Banff Town Council for final approval. The program is part of a broader effort to support the region’s vibrant non-profit sector, which includes more than 225 organizations that can find further resources through the Bow Valley Non-Profits portal.
In 2025, the town distributed funding to 18 different recipients, including the YWCA Banff, the Bowstring Heritage Foundation, and the Banff Greenhouse Gardening Society. These town-led efforts operate alongside other regional support systems, such as the Banff Canmore Foundation, which maintains its own separate grant program for the Bow Valley.
Applicants may submit their proposals through the online grants portal or via email. Paper copies of application forms are also available at Banff Town Hall, located at 110 Bear Street, where staff are available to assist from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Those with questions regarding the application process can contact the Community Services department at 403-762-1251 or by email at [email protected].
