This program provides up to $50,000 to support community initiatives. It funds projects that deliver direct benefits across priority areas such as arts and culture, economic development, sustainability, and inclusion.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals

Increasing community impact

Strengthening governance

Develop strategic partnerships

Eligible Funding

Maximum amount : 50,000 $
Minimum amount : 5,000 $

Timeline

Closing date : September 1, 2026

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation
Other services (except public administration)

Location

British Columbia

Legal structures

Non-profit

Annual revenue

All revenue ranges

Organisation size

All organization sizes

Audience

All groups

Non-profit candidates

Sector of operation

Culture and Arts
Environment
Economic, Social and Community Development
Diversity and Inclusion

Target groups

General public
Indigenous peoples
Rural / Remote communities
Minority groups

Revenue structures

100% donations / grants

Scope

Regional

Activities funded

Arts and culture initiatives with community benefit
Community economic development initiatives
Co-operative development initiatives
Diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives
Environmental sustainability initiatives

Examples of admissible projects:

$ 48,000

Solar and battery resilience hub with community energy workshops

$ 44,500

Financial literacy and co-op entrepreneurship training for diverse communities

Eligibility

The applicant is a Northern Savings member (preference).
The applicant is located within Northern Savings’ market area (preference).
The applicant is a not-for-profit society, registered charity, social enterprise, co-operative, or Indigenous community/organization.
The request provides direct benefit in at least one of the stated priority areas.
The initiative demonstrates measurable results and long-lasting community impact.

Who is eligible?

Not-for-profit societies
Registered charities
Social enterprises
Co-operatives
Indigenous communities and organizations

Eligible geographic areas

Northern British Columbia (with a focus on communities served by Northern Savings)
Occasionally, projects outside Northern British Columbia may be considered

Selection criteria

Alignment with the vision of building sustainable communities through neighbours helping neighbours.
Ability to benefit the greatest number of people for the longest period of time.
Measurable results.
Long-standing or legacy impact (e.g., infrastructure or high economic-impact events).
Preference for Northern Savings members and organizations within the market area.

Processing and Agreement

Applications are accepted during the July to September intake period.
Funding decisions and distribution occur in October.

Additional information

Applications are accepted between July and September.
Funds are distributed in October.
On occasion, financial support may be provided beyond Northern British Columbia.

Apply to this program

Frequently Asked Questions about the INSPIRE Fund Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the INSPIRE Fund. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.