Role of Ski-Doo in the funding ecosystem
Ski-Doo is the snowmobile brand of Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP), known primarily for designing and selling recreational and utility snowmobiles and related equipment. In addition to its commercial activities, Ski-Doo supports the wider snowmobiling ecosystem through community funding initiatives, most notably the Snow P.A.S.S. (Protect, Access, Sustain, Support) grant program.
The Snow P.A.S.S. grant program was set up to assist snowmobile clubs and volunteer groups that develop and maintain riding infrastructure. According to the program page, over a period of three years it has distributed nearly USD 1.2 million to around 240 clubs and organizations across North America. These grants have helped finance projects such as trail construction and upkeep, bridge building and repair, trail signage, expanded parking areas, and environmental stewardship efforts.
Types of projects and beneficiaries
Snow P.A.S.S. grants target organizations that are directly involved in snowmobiling access and safety. Typical beneficiaries include local and regional snowmobile clubs and associations, as well as community groups working on:
- New snowmobile trail creation and seasonal maintenance
- Bridge and infrastructure construction or rehabilitation on existing routes
- Backcountry safety education and training for riders
- Avalanche awareness courses and equipment, including beacon checkpoints
- Projects that improve parking, signage and responsible riding practices
Through this financial support, Ski-Doo aims to strengthen the long-term sustainability of snowmobiling by improving rider safety, trail quality and environmental responsibility.
Publics served and overall impact
While the Snow P.A.S.S. program is focused on clubs and organizations rather than individuals, its impact reaches the wider snowmobiling community. Better maintained trails, safer infrastructure and enhanced safety training all benefit recreational and utility riders, tourism-related businesses and rural communities that rely on winter activities. The company states that it has already met an initial goal of contributing one million dollars in support and expresses an intention to continue collaborating with clubs and volunteers in future seasons.
