The Keg Spirit Foundation is a philanthropic foundation established in 2001 to mark the 30th anniversary of The Keg Steakhouse + Bar and to formalize the company’s long history of charitable giving. Based in Richmond, British Columbia, the foundation channels donations raised through company promotions, sales of Keg-branded retail products and local fundraising initiatives directly to registered charities, with a focus on children, youth and mentoring.
Role in the funding ecosystem
The foundation supports both national and local organizations across Canada and the United States. It has provided multi-year support to major partners such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and local BBBS chapters in U.S. markets, as well as other youth-focused programs including the Ladybug Foundation Education Program, Outward Bound and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Overall, the foundation has raised more than $10–11 million for over 300 charities throughout North America.
In addition to large strategic partnerships, The Keg Spirit Foundation offers project-based grants, typically in the range of $2,000 to $5,000, to smaller organizations that align with its mission. This mix of ongoing partnerships and competitive grants allows it to reach a wide variety of community initiatives that help young people grow, learn and build confidence through mentoring relationships.
General eligibility and assessment
To be considered for funding, applicant organizations must hold a current charitable registration number in good standing, run programs that relate to children or youth, and include a mentoring component in the proposed project. The foundation does not fund individuals, projects outside The Keg’s market areas, deficit reduction, religious or political causes, sponsorships, conferences or memberships.
The application process generally begins with a one-page Letter of Interest outlining the organization, the proposed project, expected outcomes and a brief budget overview. Letters may be submitted year-round and are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Selected applicants are invited to submit a full proposal, which is assessed by a review committee, with funding decisions typically made in the first quarter of the year based on proposals received in the prior year.
Staff engagement and impact
The Keg Spirit Foundation also encourages strong employee involvement. Through the Foundation’s Chairman’s Award, four employees who demonstrate exceptional community commitment are recognized at senior manager conferences, each directing $5,000 from the foundation to a charity of their choice. Over time this program has channeled well over $200,000 in additional support to staff-selected causes in Canada and the U.S.
Beyond financial contributions, Keg employees regularly volunteer in local initiatives such as charity walks, food bank drives and special meals for families in need, reinforcing the foundation’s goal of strengthening communities while advancing opportunities for children and youth.