Brandon Area Community Foundation (BACF) is a registered community foundation serving Brandon and the surrounding region in Manitoba. It pools gifts from individuals, families, and organizations into permanent endowment funds and uses the investment income to provide ongoing financial support to local charitable activities. As a grantmaking foundation, BACF channels resources to a wide range of community projects rather than delivering services directly.
Role of BACF in the funding ecosystem
BACF plays a central role in supporting non-profit organizations, charities, and community groups across the Brandon area. Its grants typically help fund infrastructure, programs, and services that improve quality of life, including community development, social and health services, arts and culture, recreation, and other local priorities identified through community input. The foundation’s structure allows donors to create named funds and legacy gifts while ensuring that the resulting income is reinvested locally through grant programs.
Grant programs and financial support
The foundation administers several types of grants, generally offered through periodic calls for proposals. These may include community grants for broad local needs, more targeted funds aligned with specific themes or donor interests, and occasional special initiatives responding to emerging issues. Eligible applicants are usually registered charities or qualified donees operating in the Brandon region, and funding can support both projects and, when permitted, capital needs or program delivery.
Application process and evaluation
BACF provides guidance on how to apply for a grant via its "Grants" and "Apply for a Grant" sections. Applicants are typically asked to describe their organization, outline the project, demonstrate community benefit, and provide a budget. Proposals are reviewed by the foundation’s grants committee and board, which assess alignment with community priorities, feasibility, and long-term impact. Successful applications receive financial contributions that may be one-time or, in some cases, spread over multiple years depending on the fund’s terms.
Community impact and partnerships
Through its grantmaking, BACF strengthens the non-profit sector in Brandon by enabling organizations to launch new initiatives, expand services, and improve facilities. The foundation often collaborates with donors, local governments, and other partners to leverage funding and maximize community benefit. By maintaining a permanent capital base and distributing only a portion of annual investment income, BACF ensures that its grant programs remain a sustainable source of support for future generations.