Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Manitoba Foster Family Network Inc

Trails Manitoba is a provincial non-profit and CRA-registered charity dedicated to advancing recreational trail networks across Manitoba. Beyond providing maps and resources for trail users, the organization plays a central funding role by administering the Trails Grant for Manitoba in partnership with the Province of Manitoba and The Winnipeg Foundation. This annual grant program is designed to enhance Manitoba’s trail system while generating social, economic and environmental benefits for communities.

The Trails Grant for Manitoba targets trail associations, municipalities and other not-for-profit groups that can provide ongoing stewardship of trails. Funding supports three main objectives: creating new recreational trail opportunities, improving the quality and safety of existing trails through enhancements such as signage and wayfinding, and maintaining the trail network through regular upkeep and repairs. The program is intended to continue indefinitely and is backed by a significant initial contribution from the Province of Manitoba, with detailed annual grant reports published on the website.

Trails Manitoba’s grants focus on projects across the province, both within Winnipeg and in rural and northern regions. Eligible recipients include recognized trail associations, municipalities, community groups and other registered non-profits that manage or steward trail infrastructure. Projects can range from new trail construction and gap-filling links to maintenance, rehabilitation, accessibility improvements, safety upgrades, and planning or feasibility studies. Matching contributions are generally required, and guidance is provided through a Grant Program Guide, Application Writing Guide and FAQ documents.

To help applicants prepare strong proposals, Trails Manitoba publishes comprehensive program guides and an application writing guide outlining eligibility criteria, required matching ratios, eligible costs and assessment considerations. A dedicated FAQs section clarifies rules on topics such as multiple applications, maintenance grants, volunteer contributions and equipment purchases. Successful recipients are required to sign an end-user agreement and to complete interim and final report forms available online. These reporting tools capture project outcomes and ensure public funds are used to complete trail work on the ground before final grant payments are released.

Trails Manitoba works closely with the Government of Manitoba, Trans Canada Trail, The Winnipeg Foundation, Travel Manitoba and other partners to leverage funding and expertise for trail development. Press releases and annual reports highlight millions of dollars invested in dozens of projects each year, adding new kilometres of trail and upgrading hundreds more. Through this role, Trails Manitoba contributes to healthier lifestyles, eco-tourism development and stronger connections between communities and the land, while promoting responsible and environmentally conscious trail use across the province.