We originally wrote this Green Grant blog in 2018, so it’s time for a 2021 update.
If you are in the environmental space, you should study the grants below.
If you want to improve your grant writing, you can find 100 tips in my new book.
Good luck!
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There is grant money waiting for YOU! BUT if you step in a “grant trap,” your application is a NO! Learn the FIVE most common errors to AVOID in government grants! Get the 5 Grant Gotchas now to save you countless hours.ALBERTA INNOVATES:
Alberta Innovates is a catalyst for innovation. As a Government of Alberta corporation and consistent with Government priorities, Alberta Innovates supports research and innovation that leads to economic growth & diversification, enhanced environmental performance, and social well-being.
Alberta Innovates has three core divisions within the Research, Innovation & Commercialization business line, which include Clean Resources (the combined legacy Clean Energy and Bio Sector), Health Innovation, and Investments, as well as two wholly-owned research subsidiaries: InnoTech Alberta and C-FER Technologies.
Clean Resources programs are created to develop, adapt, and commercialize innovative technologies that maximize the value of the province’s natural and renewable resources while protecting the environment.
Clean Resources Programs and Funding Offered under Alberta Innovates:
- Bioenergy – supports the development of a bioenergy industry that contributes to Alberta’s supply of renewable energy through the production of biofuels and novel value-added products. The program invests in projects that develop and/or deploy waste or biomass conversion technologies.
- Carbon Capture & Utilization – focuses on carbon capture and utilization innovation to convert carbon dioxide into useful products with significant commercial value and market demand through cost-competitive and environmentally sound technology solutions.
- TIER Economic Recovery Program – consist of a set of “shovel-ready” projects that will accelerate innovation in support of GHG emissions reduction, increase long-term economic competitiveness and stimulate growth in critically important sectors of Alberta’s economy.
- Cleaner Hydrocarbon Production – supports projects that will contribute to Alberta’s hydrocarbon resource value while securing long-term future for Alberta’s oil sand resources in a new economy.
- Innovative Hydrocarbon Products – focuses on three sub-programs designed to diversify Alberta’s economy and add value to hydrocarbon resources that will enable Alberta to achieve prosperity in a low carbon, global economy.
- Land & Biodiversity – this program aims to ensure that natural resource development operations and practices are sustainable.
- Renewable & Alternative Energy – supports invests in renewable and low-carbon electricity while maintaining a reliable and affordable grid system.
- Water Innovation – designed to achieve the goals of the Alberta’s Water for Life Strategy.
- Smart Agriculture and Food – invests in research and innovation supporting data driven decision making and automation for growth of Alberta’s agriculture and food sector.
- Bioindustrial Materials – supports economic development and diversification by investing in greener products and processes using Alberta biomass.
Deadline: Open and closes.
Contact: Alberta Innovates │ 1-877-423-5727
Website: https://albertainnovates.ca/focus-areas/clean-resources/
EMISSIONS REDUCTION ALBERTA (ERA):
ERA was created in 2009 to help deliver on the province’s environmental and economic goals. ERA takes action on climate change and supports economic growth by investing in the pilot, demonstration and deployment of clean technology solutions that reduce GHGs, lower costs, attract investment, and create jobs in Alberta.
ERA’s clean technology investments help innovators develop and demonstrate Alberta-based technologies that lower emissions and costs. Scaling up innovation will ensure Alberta succeeds in a lower emissions world. ERA is investing in a diverse portfolio of transformative, sustainable technologies that reduce GHG emissions and position Alberta for success in a lower emissions economy.
ERA has two funding streams to help Alberta prosper while reducing emissions.
TECHNOLOGY FUNDING
ERA is investing in a diverse portfolio of transformative, sustainable technologies that reduce GHG emissions and position Alberta for success in a lower emissions economy.
Technology Roadmap Areas of Focus are:
- CLEANER OIL & GAS – Transformative technologies and innovation to reduce the GHG footprint of Alberta’s fossil fuel supply chain and explore alternative fuel and value-add opportunities that can help sustainability grow and diversify the province’s energy economy.
- LOW EMITTING ELECTRICITY SYSTEM – Technology and innovation to support a reliable, lower carbon electricity system, including reducing the GHG footprint of Alberta’s electricity supply mix, increasing the deployment of renewable energy, and enabling a smarter electricity grid that can power Alberta’s homes and businesses.
- FOOD, FIBRE, & BIOINDUSTRIES – Innovation processes and technologies to advance Alberta’s bioeconomy, and reduce GHG’s, including novel agriculture and forestry practices; bioenergy and biomaterials; waste management and waste energy; and enhanced carbon retention.
- LOW-CARBON INDUSTRIAL PROCESSES & PRODUCTS – Technologies to deliver GHG reductions through energy efficiency, industrial process innovation, and low-GHG materials and chemicals.
Click here to learn more: https://eralberta.ca/funding-technology/
ENERGY SAVINGS FOR BUSINESS
Energy Savings for Business will help eligible Alberta businesses reduce emissions, decrease operating costs, grow their operations and become more competitive, while creating skilled jobs and boosting economic recovery.
Recognizing that time is money to Alberta’s businesses, the program will offer streamlined applications, quick turnaround times, expanded technology lists and clear, timely, comprehensive information. ESB will give businesses fast access to incentives for cost-effective efficiency measures:
- Up to $250,000 is available per project
- Up to $500,000 per parent company is available to cover the cost of products and services.
Click here to learn more: https://www.eralberta.ca/energy-savings-for-business/
Deadline: Open and closes.
Contact: Emissions Reduction Alberta | 780-498-2068 | info@eralberta.ca
Website: http://www.eralberta.ca/
INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (IRAP) | NATIONAL RESEARCH COUNCIL CANADA (NRC):
Value: Maximum $150,000. The business shares 25% of the total project costs and NRC provides up to a 75% contribution with payments as milestones are reached.
Description:
The Industrial Research Assistance Program is designed to help companies to develop technologies and successfully commercialize them in a global marketplace. It provides advisory services, funding, and networking for qualified small and medium-sized enterprises in Canada. Eligible companies can apply for financial assistance under the following programs:
- Technology Innovation Projects
- Youth Employment Strategy programs
- CHTD
Eligible Applicants:
- Be a small and medium-sized enterprise in Canada, incorporated and profit-oriented
- Have 500 or fewer full-time equivalent employees
- Have the objective to grow and generate profits through development and commercialization of innovative, technology-driven new or improved products, services, or processes in Canada
Deadline: Ongoing
Contact: IRAP | 1-877-994-4727 | NRC.IRAPInfo-InfoPARI.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGY CANADA (SDTC):
Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) helps Canadian companies develop and deploy competitive, clean technology solutions, to help solve some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges: climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil.
We do this through funding, knowledge and ecosystem connectivity – making a difference in today’s hypercompetitive global market for clean technologies. By taking a cross-Canada approach, in partnership with the best peers and experts, we are the global benchmark for sustainable development innovation programming.
There are two types of funding under SDTC:
SD CLEANTECH FUND
Value: Funding on average 33% (up to 40%) of eligible projects costs. An average contribution of $2 million to $4 million, with funds disbursed over the life of the project up to a five-year period.
Description: SDTC provides funding to promising clean technology development and demonstration projects that are start-ups or scale-ups. For instance, when the technology itself is beyond proof-of-concept but is pre-commercial. The technology must demonstrate the potential for GHG emissions reductions, reductions in water consumption and/or the reduction of water, soil or air contamination. The project must include some further development of the technology, mitigate existing technology risk and include validation of the economic viability of the technology. Application is ongoing.
For more information, click here: https://www.sdtc.ca/en/cleantech-fund/
SEED FUND
Value: One-time grants of $50,000 to $100,000
Description: The Seed Fund supports promising early-stage Canadian entrepreneurs with one-time grants of $50,000 to $100,000 for innovative technological projects with environmental benefits. The Seed Fund seeks to support companies developing sustainable technologies in focus areas including but not limited to food, water, energy and communities. Deadlines: Winter Round – January; Spring Round – April; Fall Round – September.
For more information, click here: https://www.sdtc.ca/en/seed-fund/
Deadline: Open and closes.
Contact: Sustainable Development Technology Canada | 613-234-6313 | applications@sdtc.ca
Website: https://www.sdtc.ca/en/
GREEN BUILDING TECHNOLOGY NETWORK PROJECT FUNDING | SMART SUSTAINABLE RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE ASSOCIATION (SSRIA):
Value: The maximum funding amount per Green Building test bed project is $500,000. The maximum project funding pool to support all the professional development and training opportunities/tools within the FutureSkills initiative is $250,000 for 2020 – 2022.
Description:
SSRIA will achieve its goal by funding specific incremental elements of approved building projects that employ new alternate clean technologies that support the goal. A longer-term objective is to grow AEC sector businesses active in the green building and clean technologies arena.
Led by SSRIA and currently funded by Alberta Innovates, the Green Building Technology Network (GBTN) will provide funding towards projects submitted by its members that support the following objectives:
- Achieve a path to energy consumption reduction, 40% greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction by 2030 and a regional zero carbon built environment by 2050.
- Integrate new clean technologies and/or design approaches that support energy conservation and/or enhanced building performance in actual buildings (new or retrofit).
- Model, monitor, measure and analyze data from actual building performance.
- Upgrade professional development and/or skills in the AEC sector relating to these clean technologies and/or design innovations.
Deadline: Projects must be completed no later than March 31, 2023.
Contact: Pam Goertzen (Executive Director ) │pam@ssria.ca
Website: https://www.ssria.ca/project-funding
NATURAL GAS INNOVATION FUND (NGIF):
- I’ve asked for details on this fund. Not sure it’s a grant/equity/interest free loan. Standby for details!
Value: Varies
Description:
The Natural Gas Innovation Fund (NGIF) was created by the Canadian Gas Association (CGA) to support the funding of cleantech innovation in the natural gas value chain. It seeks to fill a technology development gap in the sector and invest in innovation enabling natural gas solutions for current and emerging challenges facing Canada’s energy system.
Eligible Applicants:
o Natural Gas Production – Technologies related to sustainable production, GHG and air emission management, water management and treatment, natural gas processing, LNG, digital transformation, natural gas generation including RNG, H2 production.
o Natural Gas Transmission – Technologies related to advanced materials and technologies, energy efficiency, intelligent systems, methane capture.
o Natural Gas Distribution – Technologies related to carbon capture, energy efficiency, heat and power generation, intelligent systems, methane capture, natural gas generation including RNG, H2 production.
Deadline: Open and Closes.
Contact: Natural Gas Innovation Fund (NGIF) │ 613-748-0057
Website: https://www.ngif.ca/
APPLIED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT GRANTS:
Value: Up to $150,000
Description:
The Applied Research and Development (ARD) Grants are intended to provide companies that operate from a Canadian base access to the unique knowledge, expertise and capabilities available at Canadian colleges and to train students in essential technical skills required by companies. The mutually beneficial collaborations are expected to result in economic benefits to the company and/or Canada.
Eligible Applicants:
Canadian colleges that have been declared eligible to administer grants according to the eligibility requirements for colleges of at least one of the three federal granting agencies (NSERC, CIHR and/or SSHRC) may submit an application. If the proposed research and knowledge/technology transfer activities lie entirely within the mandate of a single agency (NSERC, CIHR or SSHRC), the college must be declared eligible to receive funding from that granting agency.
- The college must offer programs in the natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities and/or health sciences, and they must be in line with the applied research areas proposed
- The college’s faculty members involved in ARD grants must be engaged in applied research in the natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities and/or health sciences
- The college must provide the space, facilities and services to enable its natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities and/or health sciences faculty members to conduct applied research.
Eligible expenses:
ARD grant funds must be used for direct costs of research; however, some limited funds may be used for operating and equipment costs (up to 20% of the total expenditures), as well as for overhead and administration costs (a further 20% of the total award). Certain expenditures related to project management are eligible as a direct cost of research up to a maximum of 10% of the total direct costs. The college must provide for any additional indirect or overhead costs.
For further information on use of grant funds consult the College and Community Innovation program tri-agency financial administration guide.
Deadline: Ongoing.
Contact: Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada │ 1-855-275-2861 (Toll free)
Website: http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/professors-professeurs/rpp-pp/ard-rda_eng.asp
ECOACTION COMMUNITY FUNDING PROGRAM:
Value: The maximum EcoAction funding is $100,000 per project; the minimum funding amount request is $25,000 per project for a maximum duration of 36 months.
Description:
The EcoAction Community Funding Program provides financial support to non-profit and non-government organizations for local action-based projects that produce measurable, positive effects on the environment.
EcoAction funds projects that:
- lead to tangible environmental results;
- engage the community to improve the environment;
- increase environmental awareness; and,
- increase capacity in communities.
Funding priority varies every year.
Eligible Applicants:
Non-profit groups working on projects focused on coastal and fresh water quality and conservation, or reduced emissions or adaptation to current and future climate change impacts may be eligible for funding. Eligible organizations include:
- Environmental groups
- Community groups
- Youth and seniors’ groups
- Community-based associations
- Service clubs
- Indigenous organizations
Eligible Expenses:
- human resources, including salaries and benefits
- contract and professional services (e.g., accounting, audit, liability insurance costs that are directly attributed to carrying out the project, monitoring, legal or other professional fees)
- travel and field expenses (based on Government of Canada rates)
- materials and supplies
- printing and production costs
- communication and distribution costs
- equipment purchases or rental fees
- vehicle rental and operation costs
- translation fees
- a reasonable share of overhead and/or administrative costs and rent that is directly attributed to program delivery
Deadline: March 3, 2021.
Contact: West & North Region │ ec.ecoactionouestnord-ecoactionwestnorth.ec@canada.ca
ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGES FUND:
Value: Varies according to province, see https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/environmental-funding/programs/environmental-damages-fund.html
Description:
The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a specified purpose account administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) to direct funds received from fines, court orders and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment. Fines directed to the EDF are used to fund projects that focus on the following four categories in order of priority:
- restoration
- environmental quality improvement
- research and development
- education and awareness
Eligible Applicants:
Eligible groups include:
- Non-governmental organizations
- Universities and academic institutions
- Aboriginal groups
- Provincial, territorial and municipal governments
Eligible Expenses:
- human resource costs, including salaries and benefits
- travel costs not to exceed Treasury Board approved rates
- material and supplies costs
- printing and production costs
- communications and distribution costs
- equipment rental or purchase
- vehicle rentals and operational costs
- translation costs
- liability insurance costs that are directly attributed to carrying out the project
- a reasonable share of overhead and/or administrative costs and rent that is directly attributed to carrying out the project, as negotiated with the office in your region
- any GST/HST that is not reimbursable by Revenue Canada and any PST not reimbursable by the provinces
Deadline: There are currently no open EDF funding opportunities.
Contact: Environmental Damages Fund Program │ ec.fdeouestnord-edfwestnorth.ec@canada.ca
INVESTMENTS IN FOREST INDUSTRY TRANSFORMATION (IFIT) | NATURAL RESOURCES CANADA (NRCAN):
Value: Up to $1,000,000
Description:
The Investments in Forest Industry Transformation (IFIT) program facilitates the adoption of transformative technologies, products, and processes by bridging the gap between development and commercialization. The IFIT program aims to create a more competitive and resilient forest sector with a focus on low-carbon projects that result in new or diversified revenue streams.
CAPITAL INVESTMENT PROJECTS
Capital funding to support transformational projects by forest sector firms to diversify into new product streams and implement innovative process improvements to ensure industry competitiveness. Applicants are encouraged to apply to our next capital investment projects call for proposals expected in early 2021.
STUDIES PROJECTS
Funding to conduct studies linked to the advancement of innovation in the forest sector in support of a future capital investment or strategic shift by forest sector firms. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis until all funds have been allocated.
Eligibility:
For-profit companies located in Canada, that:
- produce forest products in an existing forest product manufacturing facility (for example, pulp, paper or lumber mills) or
- are / will be new entrants in the Canadian forest sector for the purpose of the proposed project
Clusters, joint ventures and consortiums are included if a for-profit company acts as the lead applicant and will be designated as the recipient of IFIT funding. For more information, read about eligibility on our FAQ page.
Deadline: Open and closes.
Contact: Investments in Forest Industry Transformation │ nrcan.ifit-itif.rncan@canada.ca
FOREST SECTOR FUNDING PROGRAMS | NATURAL RESOURCES CANADA (NRCAN):
Value: Varies.
Description:
Federal funding programs supported by the Canadian Forest Service help diversify forest products, markets and processes to support the competitiveness of Canada’s forest sector.
- Expanding Market Opportunities Program increases market opportunities for the Canadian forest industry in offshore markets and non-residential construction and mid-rise segments in North American markets.
- Forest Innovation Program supports research, development and technology transfer activities in Canada’s forest sector.
- Green Construction through Wood (GCWood) Program encourages a greater use of wood in non-traditional construction in Canada by catalyzing a broader awareness of, and capacity for, innovative tall wood buildings, timber bridges and low-rise wood commercial buildings.
- 2 Billion Trees program supports tree planting projects as part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to plant two billion trees by 2030 and establishes the nature-based building blocks needed to get to net-zero emissions by 2050.
- Indigenous Forestry Initiative helps to increase the participation of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in the Canadian economy and improve economic outcomes for Indigenous peoples throughout Canada.
- Investments in Forest Industry Transformation Program aims to support Canada’s forest sector in becoming more economically competitive and environmentally sustainable through targeted investments in advanced technologies.
Deadline: Open and closes.
Contact: NRCan │ 1-855-525-9293 0r 343-292-6096 │ questions@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca
FOREST RESOURCE IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION OF ALBERTA (FRIAA):
Value: Varies
Description: FRIAA serves the people of Alberta and is accountable to the Minister responsible for Forestry. Over nearly two decades, FRIAA has helped Alberta continue to develop world-class forest management practices and a sophisticated understanding of the relationships between things like human activity, forest resources, species at risk, and wildfire.
As FRIAA’s cornerstone program, the Forest Resource Improvement Program (FRIP) most directly practices FRIAA’s mandate to sustain and enhance Alberta’s forests. In Alberta, the forestry industry must follow a strict set of regulations regarding timber and timber harvest established by the government. FRIP projects involve activities that are over and above mandated requirements of forest tenure holders.
FRIP projects enhance forest resources and improve the integrated management of Alberta’s forested lands for the benefit of Albertans. Projects include activities that:
- Enhance the forest resources of Alberta
- Promote the enhanced management of the forest resources of Alberta
- Improve the sustained yield of the forest resources of Alberta
- Promote integrated resource management
Programs:
- Community Reforestation Program – supports sustainability of forest resources by reforesting cutblocks harvested by smaller timber operators.
- Forest Resource Improvement Program – enhance forest resources and improve the integrated management of Alberta’s forested lands for the benefit of Albertans.
- Mountain Pine Beetle Program – supports efforts aimed at controlling suppressing and eradicating mountain pine beetle in Alberta.
- Mountain Pine Beetle Forest Rehabilitation Program – provides funding for the rehabilitation of pine-dominated forests that have been negatively impacted by mountain pine beetle and are not expected to recover in a reasonable time period on their own in a reasonable time period.
- FRIAA Firesmart Program – helps communities and residents manage and reduce the threat of wildfire. The program supports communities in carrying out activities aimed at reducing the threat at wildfire.
- Caribou Habitat Recovery Program – supports Alberta Environment and Parks’ efforts to sustain and improve caribou habitat in a way that supports healthy and self-sustaining caribou populations.
- Enhanced Reforestation of Legacy Disturbance (EnRLD) Program– provides funds to sequester carbon by reforesting public lands that have been disturbed by wildfire.
- Wildfire Reclamation Program – helps to re-establish forest cover damaged and destroyed by wildfire on areas that already underwent, or were in the process of undergoing, reforestation.
Deadline: Varies.
Contact: Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) │ (780) 429-5873 │ admin@friaa.ab.ca
Website: https://friaa.ab.ca/programs/
FIRESMART – EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Value: Varies.
Description:
FireSmart builds skills in First Nations communities to prevent and prepare against wildland fires. Programming involves training First Nations teams in wildfire suppression duties, as well as fuel management and vegetation clearing, which reduces the intensity and spread of wildfires. FireSmart also leverages Indigenous knowledge of the local environment and terrain to improve emergency planning, preparation and response to wildfires.
Eligible Applicants:
- First Nation communities
- Band or tribal councils
- Indigenous organizations
Deadline: Proposals for projects in fiscal year 2021 to 2022 will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until funding is exhausted or until March 31, 2022.
Contact: Larry Price, Interim Manager, Forest Fuel Management Department │ 250-320-8580 ext. #502 │ lprice@fness.bc.ca
Website: https://www.sac-isc.gc.ca/eng/1565705092824/1565705114188
CLIMATE ACTION AND AWARENESS FUND:
Value: From $100,000 to $6 million to eligible organizations
Description:
The new Climate Action and Awareness Fund will invest $206 million over five years to support Canadian-made projects that help to reduce Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions. The Climate Action and Awareness Fund is designed to support projects that can create middle class jobs for Canadians who work in science and technology, academia and at the grassroots community level. These projects are critical as we continue to build a sustainable net zero emissions economy by 2050.
Eligible Applicants:
To be eligible for funding under this request for proposals, lead applicants must be one of the following:
- not-for-profit non-governmental organization
- university or academic institution
- Indigenous organization
Lead applicants are responsible for submitting their proposal and for negotiating and signing a funding agreement if selected. Lead applicants are encouraged to partner with at least one other organization, such as a non-governmental organization, Indigenous organization, university and academic institution, small and medium-sized enterprise, and/or a provincial, territorial or municipal government.
Eligible Expenses:
The minimum project funding request is $100,000 and the maximum is $6 million. Organizations requesting funding between $100,000 up to $500,000 must spend funds over one to two fiscal years, starting in 2020-2021. Organizations requesting over $500,000 up to $6 million must complete their project within five years of the signed Funding Agreement.
Funding for the Climate Action and Awareness Fund comes from two existing programs:
- Environmental Damages Fund – provides a mechanism for directing funds received as a result of fines, court orders, and voluntary payments to priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment
- Climate Action Fund – has awarded up to $3 million per year to support innovative ideas that raise awareness and build capacity for action that contributes to Canada’s clean growth and climate change plan, the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change.
Deadline: July 18, 2022.
Contact: Climate Action and Awareness Fund │ fasc-caaf@ec.gc.ca
STRATEGIC INNOVATION FUND (SIF) – NET ZERO ACCELERATOR FUND:
Value: Varies.
Description:
The Net Zero Accelerator (NZA) initiative supports Canada’s net zero goals to help transform the economy for clean and long term growth.
This initiative will provide up to $8 billion to support large-scale investments in key industrial sectors across the country to ensure that Canada remains competitive in a net-zero economy and reduces greenhouse gas (GHG)emissions.
The NZA investment pillars have been chosen to maximize the impact of program investments:
1. Decarbonization of large emitters – Focusing on near-term emissions reduction.
2. Industrial transformation – Helping establish industries transition to the net zero economy.
3. Clean technology and battery ecosystem development – Capitalizing on net zero opportunities by fostering emerging sectors.
Deadline: The NZA is a part of the Strategic Innovation Fund, and accepts applications on an on-going, non-competitive basis.
Contact: SIF- Net Zero Accelerator Fund │sifinfo-infofsi@ised-isde.gc.ca
Website: https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/strategic-innovation-fund/en/net-zero-accelerator-initiative
AGRICULTURAL CLEAN TECHNOLOGY (ACT) PROGRAM:
Value: Varies.
Description:
As part of the Government of Canada’s strengthened climate plan, A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy, the new Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program aims to create an enabling environment for the development and adoption of clean technology that will help drive the changes required to achieve a low-carbon economy and promote sustainable growth in Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector.
The ACT Program offers support under 2 streams:
Eligibility:
- for-profit organizations, including agri-food processors
- not-for-profit organizations, including co-operatives
- Indigenous groups
Deadline: Adoption Stream: Suspended due to high demand; Research and Innovation Stream: Open.
Contact: ACT Program│ 1-877-246-4682 │ Adoption Stream: aafc.act-a-tpa-a.aac@agr.gc.ca; Research and Innovation Stream: aafc.act-ri-tpa-ri.aac@agr.gc.ca
CLEAN ENERGY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM | MADE-IN-ALBERTA PACE PROGRAM:
Value: Up to 100% of project costs.
Description:
The Clean Energy Improvement Program puts it all within reach with an affordable, flexible, and streamlined approach to financing. Access competitive financing covering up to 100 per cent of project costs and repay conveniently through your property’s regular tax bill. This innovative financing approach, also known as Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE), is garnering successful results across North America. This is the first such program in Alberta and is available now in select municipalities.
Eligible Applicants:
Municipalities.
Eligible Expenses:
All eligible residential upgrades will be listed on the program website when the program launches in Summer 2021. Examples include high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, windows, insulation, water heaters, and solar photovoltaic systems.
Deadline: Open.
Contact: Alberta Municipalities │1-888-506-9996
Website: https://mccac.ca/programs/clean-energy-improvement-program/ or https://www.myceip.ca/
INDUSTRIAL ENERGY EFFICIENCY, CARBON CAPTURE UTILIZATION AND STORAGE GRANT PROGRAM:
Value: 75 percent of project costs, up to a maximum of $20 million.
Description:
The $131-million Industrial Energy Efficiency and Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (IEE CCUS) Grant Program is part of Alberta’s $750-million investment from the Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) fund to cut emissions, create jobs and contribute to Alberta’s economic recovery.
The IEE CCUS program is helping Alberta’s large industrial emitters:
- reduce emissions
- increase competitiveness
- lower carbon compliance costs
- improve energy efficiency through technology and equipment upgrades
Eligible Applicants:
Facilities must be regulated or eligible to be regulated under the TIER Regulation to be eligible for funding. If an applicant were to propose a new facility as part of its project, that facility would have to be eligible for regulation under the TIER Regulation.
There is no minimum or maximum total project cost eligibility requirement. Existing projects are eligible; however, grant funding cannot be used towards retroactive project costs. Total grant and award funding from all external sources cannot exceed 85 per cent of total project costs.
Only emissions reductions that are regulated under TIER are eligible for funding.
Eligible Expenses:
- Salaries and Benefits
- Indirect and Admin Expenses
- Approved Travel Rates
- Any other costs that in opinion of Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP), are considered to be direct and necessary for the successful implementation of the project and have been approved in writing by AEP prior to being incurred.
Deadline: October 30, 2020. The remaining $31 million in IEE CCUS program funding will be allocated to support more projects in late 2021.
Contact: Industrial Energy Efficiency and Carbon Capture and Utilization Program │ aep.ghg@gov.ab.ca
Website: https://www.alberta.ca/industrial-energy-efficiency-carbon-capture-utilization-and-storage.aspx
ZERO EMISSION VEHICLE INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM:
Value: 50% of Total Project Costs up to a maximum $5,000,000 per Project.
Description:
Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program was designed by the Government of Canada for its steadfast belief that electrification is key to decarbonizing its transportation sector and transitioning to a low-carbon future.
This program aims to deploy a network of zero-emission vehicle charging (level 2 and higher) and refuelling stations in more localized areas where Canadians live, work and play.
Eligible Applicants:
Legal entities validly incorporated or registered in Canada including not-for-profit and for-profit organizations such as:
- Electricity or gas utilities
- Companies
- Industry associations
- Research associations
- Standards organizations
- Indigenous and community groups
- Academic institutions
- Provincial, territorial, regional or municipal governments or their departments or agencies where applicable
- International legal entities validly incorporated or registered abroad including for-profit and not-for-profit organizations such as: Companies, Industry associations, Research associations, Standards organizations, and Academic institution.
Eligible Programs:
The program targets multiple infrastructure streams:
- Public Places and On-Street
- Workplaces
- Light-Duty Vehicle Fleets
- Medium and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Fleets
- Multi-Unit Residential Buildings (MURBs)
- Mass Transit
Deadline: Extended until June 22, 2021.
Contact: Government of Canada │ nrcan.taf-tcr.rncan@canada.ca
EMISSIONS REDUCTION FUND – ONSHORE PROGRAM:
Value: $100K to $20M funding
Description:
The new $675M Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) – Onshore Program is helping Canadian onshore oil and gas companies invest in green solutions to continue their progress toward reducing methane emissions while facing the current economic crisis and COVID-19 pandemic.
Eligible Applicants:
All upstream and midstream oil and/or gas sector companies with projects to reduce or eliminate routine venting of methane rich natural gas from conventional, tight and shale oil and gas operations can apply. To be considered for funding under the Program, the applicant must satisfy all of the following:
- Comply with the eligibility criteria listed in Sections 2.1 through 2.5 of this Applicant’s Guide;
- Be a validly incorporated or registered legal entity in Canada;
- Be an oil and gas company, or a provincial, territorial or municipal government that owns or operates an upstream and/or midstream conventional, tight, and/or shale oil and gas facility(ies) located in Canada; and,
- Provide all of the mandatory documentation listed in Section 6.2 of this Guide, including information contained in an engineer certified BOA or equivalent, either as a separate document or as part of the applicant’s Business Plan.
Eligible Expenses:
Eligible projects will be implemented in one or more of the following sectors:
- Upstream oil and gas production: including operations from the wellhead to the transfer of oil and/or gas into midstream gathering systems;
- Midstream oil and gas: including operations such as gathering and pipeline transporting, processing, treating, storing, and/or marketing of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids.
Deadline: Intake 3 is now closed.
Contact: ERF- Onshore Program │ erf-fre@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca
ECO-FRIENDLY WASTE CONVERTER | GLOBAL AFFAIRS CANADA:
Value: Varies
Description: Global Affairs Canada (GAC) is seeking a simple and eco-friendly way to econment while managing refuse at GAC sites in Canada and abroad. Solutions currently exist for recyclables and compostable, but GAC is seeking a solution for the waste that is going to landfill.
Eligible Applicants:
Solution proposals can only be submitted by a small business that meets all of the following criteria:
- for profit
- incorporated in Canada (federally or provincially)
- 499 or fewer full-time equivalent (FTE) employees
- research and development activities that take place in Canada
- 50% or more of its annual wages, salaries and fees are currently paid to employees and contractors who spend the majority of their time working in Canada
- 50% or more of its FTE employees have Canada as their ordinary place of work
- 50% or more of its senior executives (Vice President and above) have Canada as their principal residence
Eligible Expenses:
The program will fund projects that proposed solutions to eco-friendly waste converter:
- be able to convert some of the garbage into energy to operate and the rest into a usable product
- be portable (i.e. ensure ease of regular movement by truck or something smaller to different locations)
- be user friendly (i.e. the program or mechanisms for its operation should be easy to understand and operate by the staff that will be placed in charge of them)
- be waterproof and able to function in extreme temperatures (- 35 degrees Celsius to +35 degrees Celsius) to accommodate the various seasons during the course of the year
- result in fewer CO2 emissions than a garbage truck for the same volume of garbage
- be able to process one 7-16 gallon-bag of garbage at a time
- be easily cleaned and have removable containers/basins that can be used to catch and transfer the product to wherever it will be used
- not release toxic fumes that will pollute the environment
- be able to fuel their own operation using waste
Deadline: Closed. Previous deadline: May 28, 2020.
Contact: Government of Canada │ SIC-ISC@pwgsc.gc.ca
Website: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/101.nsf/eng/00089.html
IMPACT CANADA:
Value: Varies
Description:
Announced in Budget 2017, Impact Canada is a Government of Canada-wide effort that will help departments accelerate the adoption of innovative funding approaches to deliver meaningful results to Canadians.
This Impact Canada challenge platform is a core component of the initiative. It allows Government of Canada departments to issue challenges on a common site and reach a diverse group of problem solvers and innovators.
Impact Canada Challenges:
- Deep Space Food Challenge
- Housing Supply Challenge
- The Sky’s the Limit Challenge
- Food Waste Reduction Challenge
- Hull Design Efficiency Challenge
- Charging the Future Challenge
- Indigenous Homes Innovation Initiative
- Indigenous Off-diesel Initiative
- Crush It! Challenge
- Power Forward Challenge
- Drug Checking Technology Challenge
- Women in Cleantech Challenge
- Smart Cities Challenge
Deadline: Varies
Contact: Impact Canada │ iiu-uii@pco-bcp.gc.ca
Website: https://impact.canada.ca/en
CANADA’S OIL SANDS INNOVATION (COSIA):
Value: Varies
Description: Canada’s Oil Sands Innovation Alliance (COSIA) is an alliance of oil sands producers focused on accelerating the pace of improvement in environmental performance in Canada’s oil sands through collaborative action and innovation.
COSIA bring together leading thinkers from industry, government, academia and the wider public to improve measurement, accountability and environmental performance in the oil sands in four priority areas. COSIA’s Innovation Opportunities provide focused, actionable descriptions of the current state of opportunities related to environmental processes and impacts of the oil sands industry. Each represents a possibility that, if realized, would contribute towards the achievement of COSIA’s environmental aspirations.
Environmental Priority Areas:
Deadline: Varies
Contact: Canada’s Oil Sands Innovation Alliance (COSIA) │ 403-444-4282 │ info@cosia.ca
Website: https://cosia.ca/
COLORADO CLEANTECH INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION:
Value: Varies.
Description:
Founded in 2008, CCIA is a statewide, industry-led, industry-focused organization dedicated to promoting Colorado’s cleantech industry. CCIA impacts Colorado’s policies, people, products and programs that drive expansion of a cleaner, cheaper, more efficient and secure energy economy. Through advocacy, public policy leadership, development and education, CCIA works to ensure that Colorado is a global cleantech leader.
CIA Cleantech Challenges:
Deadline: Varies.
Contact: Colorado Cleantech Industries Association (CCIA) │ (303) 748-5424 │ info@coloradocleantech.com
Website: https://www.coloradocleantech.com/
YOUTH IN ENVIRONMENT
CANADA GREEN CORPS:
Value: Varies
Description:
Canada Green Corps is an innovative youth employment programme designed to launch the careers of talented, yet un- or underemployed, Canadian youth. Funded through Environment and Climate Change Canada, Canada Green Corps strategically fulfills government commitments to provide new employment opportunities for youth and showcase national leadership on climate action.
Eligible Applicants:
- Non-profit organizations
- Municipal, provincial, and territorial governments, institutions, agencies, and Crown corporations
- Indigenous organizations (including band councils, tribal councils, and self-governing entities)
- Private companies
Eligible employers must:
- Offer meaningful work experience
- Offer a 4 to 6 month term
- Pay a portion of the youth’s salary
Eligible participants must:
- Be eligible to be a part of the Green Corps
- Be between 18 and 30 years of age
- Be legally entitled to work in Canada
- Not be a full-time student or co-op student
Additional restrictions do apply.
Eligible Expenses:
A wage subsidy for the duration of your Green Corps participant’s employment at your organization.
Deadline: Closed. Future deadlines to be determined.
Contact: United Nations Association in Canada │ (613) 232-5751 │ info@unac.org
Website: http://www.unac.org/green-corps
THE YOUNG LEADER GRANT | NATURE CANADA:
Value: $1,000
Description:
Women for Nature have established a grant/bursary for a young person “The Young Leader Grant” to develop and implement a project to celebrate the role that nature plays in our Canadian culture and identity.
Eligible Applicants:
Youths (under 30 years old)
Eligible Expenses:
This grant of $1,000 will support project implementation in the year 2021, to celebrate the role that nature plays in our Canadian culture and identity.
Deadline: February 28, 2021
Contact: Nature Canada │ 1-800-267-4088 or 613-562-3447
EMERALD YOUTH GRANTS │ ALBERTA EMERALD FOUNDATION:
Value: Up to $750
Description: The Alberta Emerald Foundation’s (AEF) Emerald Youth Grant program empowers students and youth (under 25) to make their dream environmental projects a reality. The AEF strives to distribute a total of 30 grants per year through the Emerald Youth Grants program.
Eligible Applicants:
- Only group projects are eligible for funding. Individuals will not be approved.
- Applicants are only eligible for one grant per granting period.
Eligible Expenses:
Funds are distributed in two amounts: $500 upfront when your environmental project pitch is approved. The remaining $250 will be distributed once we have reviewed your final report.
Deadline: Fall (August-December) and Spring (January–June).
Contact: Alberta Emerald Foundation │ sabrina@emeraldfoundation.ca
Website: https://albertaemeraldfoundation.submittable.com/submit/173372/emerald-youth-grants-form-fall-2020
YOUTH ENVIRONMENTAL ENGAGEMENT GRANTS | ALBERTA EMERALD FOUNDATION:
Value: Maximum $500
Description:
The Alberta Emerald Foundation believes in inspiring the next generation of eco-heroes by supporting Alberta’s young people (aged 25 and under) in their environmental efforts. With funds from founding program sponsors, and other sponsors and individual donors, the Alberta Emerald Foundation provides micro-grants of up to $500 to youth-led and youth-targeted environmental projects and initiatives. The Alberta Emerald Foundation intends to allocate over 100 Youth Environmental Engagement Grants each year.
Applications can be submitted in the following categories:
- Green Builders: For the development of new green spaces, or the enhancement and improvement of existing ones. Includes community gardens, outdoor classrooms, and urban naturalization projects
- Green Scholars: For educational experiences that result in environmental learning, inspiration, and personal/professional development. Includes presentations, experiments, field trips
- Green Caretakers (Presented by ABCRC): For the creation of new recycling or composting programs, or the enhancement and improvement of existing ones
- Green Energizers (Presented by Altalink): For the initiation of renewable energy or energy conservation projects, or the enhancement and improvement of existing ones
- Green Guardians: For the protection and/or restoration and/or maintenance of natural habitats and areas
Eligible Applicants:
- Schools and community organizations
- Project or initiative must be led or targeted at individuals who are aged 25 years and under
Eligible Expenses:
To assist with the costs associated with environmental engagement activities, schools, classrooms, and community groups are invited to apply for a micro-grant of up to $500.
Deadline: Closed. Future deadlines to be determined.
Contact: Gregory Caswell │ 780-905-0390 │ gregory@emeraldfoundation.ca
Website: https://emeraldfoundation.ca/our-programs/#youth-engagement
CONCLUSION
If you found the right grant, your next step is to contact the grant agency. Here are Six Questions You Should Ask a Grant Agency Before You Write.
