Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF)

CDF Canada’s mission is to advance sustainable, inclusive economies by strengthening co-operatives and credit unions, especially in the Global South. It works alongside communities to build their leadership and capacity so they can design and lead their own solutions and create long-term, community-owned change.

Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF) is a Foundation.

Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF) was founded in 1947.

Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF)'s official website is https://cdfcanada.coop/.

Role of the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada in the funding ecosystem

The Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF Canada) is a national charitable foundation and social impact partner dedicated to international development through the co-operative model. Based in Canada, it mobilizes donations and co-operative expertise to finance and strengthen co-operatives and credit unions, primarily in the Global South. By investing directly in people, organizations and community-owned enterprises, CDF Canada helps build resilient local economies and sustainable livelihoods.

Rather than delivering short-term aid, the foundation supports multi‑year development initiatives that combine financial resources with technical assistance and mentorship. Its portfolio includes projects related to climate action, food security, gender equity, financial inclusion and co-operative education, implemented in partnership with local co-operatives, credit unions and community groups.

Types of funding and support

• Project-based funding for co-operatives and credit unions – CDF Canada finances initiatives that improve business planning, expand income-generating activities, and strengthen governance and management capacities of co-operative enterprises.
• Capacity-building and leadership programs – Through training, mentoring and peer-to-peer exchanges, the foundation invests in the skills of co-operative leaders, especially women and youth, enabling them to lead and scale their organizations.
• Thematic initiatives – Flagship projects such as 4R Nutrient Stewardship, SEW Ukraine, Voice for Women & Girls and Pedaling with Purpose channel resources toward sustainable agriculture, climate-smart practices, livelihood recovery in crisis contexts, and women’s economic empowerment.
• Scholarships and special funds – Programs like the Women’s Mentorship Program and the Ian MacPherson Legacy Fund provide targeted financial and learning opportunities for co-operative practitioners, with selected recipients highlighted annually.

Supported audiences and global impact

CDF Canada primarily supports smallholder farmers, producers, traders, and members of credit unions and co-operatives in partner countries across the Global South. Its interventions help communities mobilize savings, access responsible finance, adopt environmentally sustainable practices and create decent work. The foundation emphasizes that change must be led from within communities, so funding is structured to reinforce local leadership, ownership and networks.

Over more than 75 years, the organization has contributed to the development and growth of countless co-operatives and credit unions worldwide, helping to create markets, generate jobs, and increase economic resilience in rural and urban settings. Impact and financial reports published each year provide transparency on funds received and how they are invested across projects and regions.

Governance, learning and partnerships

Rooted in co-operative values, CDF Canada collaborates closely with Canadian co-operatives, credit unions and sector associations, connecting their expertise with the needs of partner organizations abroad. The foundation uses a results-based management approach, with a strong focus on performance measurement, learning and continuous improvement.

Through this combination of funding, mentoring and knowledge-sharing, CDF Canada plays a distinctive role in the Canadian and international development ecosystem as the only Canadian charity devoted exclusively to co-operative development.