The Anti-Racism Grants Program

Overview of the The Anti-Racism Grants Program program:

The City of Edmonton Anti-Racism Grants Program is a targeted funding initiative that supports individuals, non-profits, and grassroots organisations working to combat racism and advance racial equity. The program is rooted in the City’s broader commitment to equity and inclusion and was developed following the recommendations of Edmonton’s Anti-Racism Advisory Committee. This program funds projects that aim to dismantle systemic racism and promote transformative change through education, advocacy, capacity-building, and public engagement. It recognises that racism is a persistent and multifaceted issue that disproportionately affects Indigenous, Black, and other racialised communities. As such, the program prioritises initiatives led by and for these communities, particularly those with lived experience of racism. Projects may include community workshops, training programs, public forums, awareness campaigns, youth engagement, artistic expressions, or institutional change initiatives. The program encourages collaboration between racialised communities, allies, and organisations working toward shared goals of equity and inclusion. Each funded initiative must demonstrate a clear plan for action, measurable outcomes, and sustainable community benefit. In alignment with the City's Anti-Racism Strategy, the grants support projects that actively challenge discriminatory structures, shift narratives, and create safer, more inclusive public spaces. The program also seeks to elevate underrepresented voices and build capacity within communities to lead systemic change.

Benefits of the The Anti-Racism Grants Program program:

• Up to $25,000 in grant funding for eligible projects.
• Supports community empowerment through anti-racism work.
• Encourages grassroots leadership and lived-experience-led initiatives.
• Funds a wide range of project types: education, policy advocacy, storytelling, cultural events, and more.
• Promotes inclusive civic engagement and participation.
• Enables capacity-building for racialised communities to sustain change.
• Aligns with broader municipal equity goals and supports systemic transformation.
• Offers recognition and visibility to community-led anti-racism efforts.

Eligibility criteria of the The Anti-Racism Grants Program program:

• To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Location: Projects must take place in Edmonton and benefit the local community.
• Eligible applicants:
• Individuals with lived experience of racism
• Non-profit organisations
• Community groups or collectives (formal or informal)
• Project focus: Must directly address racism or racial inequity in Edmonton.
• Leadership: Priority is given to projects led by racialised individuals or groups, particularly Black, Indigenous, or People of Colour (BIPOC).
• Alignment: The project must align with the goals of the Citys Anti-Racism Strategy.
• Readiness: Applicants must show capacity to implement the proposed activities within the grant timeline.
• Applicants may be asked to demonstrate financial accountability and provide reporting on outcomes.