Role in the Funding Ecosystem
The Chawkers Foundation is a private Canadian foundation that provides discretionary funding to registered Canadian charities working in education, environmental conservation, and journalism. Founded in 1988, it supports innovative projects that create lasting personal, environmental, and social change. The foundation makes grants only for work in Canada and focuses on organizations that demonstrate clear community impact.
Funding Streams
The foundation offers five distinct funding streams: (1) Project grants in education, environmental work, and journalism (up to $35,000); (2) Grants for front-line agencies including shelters and food banks; (3) Unrestricted multi-year funding for groups working in priority areas; (4) Director-initiated grants; and (5) Support for The Walrus Foundation for independent journalism.
Application Process
Applicants submit a 500-word project description. After review, selected groups receive a full application form. The board meets twice yearly to assess applications. Proposals are accepted in French or English. The next deadline is March 9, 2026.
Transparency and Governance
The foundation is registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA #119222040RR0001). It maintains a board of directors that meets twice annually and publishes lists of past grant recipients.
