Open
Small-scale Ecosystem Grants
Funding for small-scale ecosystem restoration projects
Last Update: May 15, 2026
Funding available
$ 80,000
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
British Columbia, Canada
Overview
This program provides funding for small-scale ecosystem projects that improve ecological health and native biodiversity in the Columbia Basin. It supports restoration or conservation of aquatic, wetland, and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as projects that conserve species of conservation concern.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Reduce environmental footprint
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 80,000 $
- Up to 80% of project cost
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
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
- Environment
Target groups
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- 100% donations / grants
- Mixed revenue (<50% earned)
Scope
- Regional
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Restoring or conserving aquatic, wetland, and terrestrial ecosystems.
- Conserving species of conservation concern.
Documents Needed
- Program Guide review
- Online application form
- Project idea discussion with the Trust
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Registered non-profits
- Local governments
- First Nations
- Organizations partnering with a community-based group in the Columbia Basin Trust region
Who is not eligible
- Applicants based outside the Columbia Basin who do not partner with a community-based organization in the region.
- Projects primarily benefiting the applicant or its members.
- Projects on privately held land, BC Hydro or Fortis land, or Provincial/Federal Parks.
- Projects mainly focused on education, research, advocacy, or lobbying.
Eligible expenses
- Project costs related to approved ecosystem restoration or conservation work.
- Wage and MERCs costs for one new job experience, up to the program limit.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Projects outside the Columbia Basin.
- Projects on privately held land, BC Hydro or Fortis land, or Provincial/Federal Parks.
- Projects focused mainly on environmental education, research, political activity, advocacy, or lobbying.
- Activities that duplicate or displace government or industry responsibility.
- Projects that primarily benefit the applicant or are exclusive or discriminatory.
Eligible geographic areas
- Columbia Basin Trust region
- Columbia Basin
Selection criteria
- Meets program eligibility requirements.
- Addresses regional ecological priorities and reflects community and technical input.
- Has a low likelihood of negative effects on cultural, community, or ecological values.
- Demonstrates community support through partnerships, fundraising, or financial commitments.
- Shows readiness to move forward with required authorizations and permits.
How to apply
- Step 1: Review the Program Guide
- Read the program guide before starting the application.
- Step 2: Contact the Trust
- Email ecosystems@ourtrust.org to discuss your project idea.
- Step 3: Receive invitation to apply
- If the project meets the program criteria, you will be invited to submit an online application.
- Step 4: Submit the online application
- Complete and send the application form online when invited.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed after submission and usually take up to eight weeks.
- Trust staff may request additional information during the review.
- Approved applicants are contacted by email.
- A Contribution Agreement must be signed by both parties before funding is finalized.
Additional information
- Applications are accepted on a continuous basis.
- The program closes when available funds are committed.
- Trust staff may request additional information during review.
- A Contribution Agreement must be signed before funds are received.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Small-scale Ecosystem Grants Program
What is the Small-scale Ecosystem Grants?
This program provides funding for small-scale ecosystem projects that improve ecological health and native biodiversity in the Columbia Basin. It supports restoration or conservation of aquatic, wetland, and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as projects that conserve species of conservation concern.
How much funding can be received?
Small-scale Ecosystem Grants Funds up to 80% of admissible expenses, capped at $80,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the Small-scale Ecosystem Grants program?
To be eligible for the Small-scale Ecosystem Grants program, you must:
Registered non-profits, local governments, or First Nations.
Project must benefit the Columbia Basin.
Project must be completed within two years.
What expenses are eligible under Small-scale Ecosystem Grants?
Restoring or conserving aquatic, wetland, and terrestrial ecosystems.
Conserving species of conservation concern.
Who can I contact for more information about the Small-scale Ecosystem Grants?
You can contact Columbia Basin Trust by email at ecosystems@ourtrust.org.
Where is the Small-scale Ecosystem Grants available?
The Small-scale Ecosystem Grants program is available the province of British Columbia.
Is the Small-scale Ecosystem Grants a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Small-scale Ecosystem Grants is a Grant and Funding