Co-op Community Spaces Program

Overview of the Co-op Community Spaces Program program:

The Co-op Community Spaces Program is an initiative by Co-op to contribute $1 million annually to projects that improve public spaces in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Applicants can seek funding between $25,000 and $150,000 for capital projects that align with one of the following categories: Recreation: Projects such as sports centers, playgrounds, or art facilities that enhance community recreation spaces. Environmental Conservation: Initiatives aimed at preserving green spaces or building facilities like interpretive centers. Urban Agriculture: Community agriculture projects like gardens or food education facilities. Eligible projects must be publicly accessible, align with the funding categories, and be completed within two years of receiving funding. Projects must also agree to include permanent Co-op branded signage.

Benefits of the Co-op Community Spaces Program program:

• Enhances community spaces for recreation, conservation, and agriculture.
• Fosters community development and well-being.
• Promotes environmental preservation and sustainable urban agriculture.
• Supports publicly accessible projects in Western Canada.

Eligibility criteria of the Co-op Community Spaces Program program:

• Project Eligibility:
• Projects must align with one of the three funding categories.
• Must be located in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, or Manitoba.
• Must be completed within two years and accessible to the community.
• Focus on capital costs; programming expenses are not eligible.
• Applicant Eligibility:
• Registered charities under the Canada Revenue Agency.
• Registered non-profits with proof of registration.
• Non-profits partnered with municipal governments for funding and receipts.
• Community service co-operatives.