Community Impact Award
Are you a registered charity or non-profit with a game-changing project idea that has the potential to create positive, lasting change in our region?
The Community Impact Award is a $35,000 award to support agencies with bold, innovative projects that demonstrate creativity and leadership in building a vibrant, healthy, and caring community.
After applications close, all submissions will be reviewed by a CFSEA committee. Up to four finalists will be selected to provide additional information, including a presentation about their proposed project, before final selections are made.
To view a full listing of past award recipients, click here
Applications Open In:
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Key Dates
Grant Writing Workshop
January 5, 2026, at 12:00 pm
Application Opens
January 5, 2026, at 12:00 pm
Application Deadline
February 6, 2026, at 4:30 pm
Granting Priorities
Our granting priorities are shaped by local data and community insight, ensuring funds support solutions that address the region’s most significant challenges.
This information supports evidence-based, locally relevant solutions that improve quality of life, inspire civic engagement, focus public discussion, and help residents, businesses, community organizations, and local leaders direct resources where they will have the greatest impact.
Basic Needs – Food, Housing, Health
Work & Economy
Connection & Belonging
Additionally, our rural granting priorities are informed by Rural Futures: Regional Development and Conversations in Southeastern Alberta, which explores the urgent priorities and opportunities identified by non-urban communities in our region.
Applicants in our Rural Community Fund Areas are encouraged to submit projects that address the unique challenges facing Cypress County, the County of Newell, Special Areas No. 2, 3, and 4, the M.D. of Acadia, and the County of Forty Mile.
Healthcare Access
Housing Availability
Social Isolation
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a project "game-changing" or "transformational"?
A game-changing or transformational project creates positive, lasting change beyond your organization. It impacts the broader community and inspires others to take action. These projects often:
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Introduce a new or creative approach to addressing a local challenge.
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Leverage partnerships or additional funding to increase reach and sustainability.
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Address the root cause of an issue, rather than just its symptoms.
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Create a ripple effect, offering models or ideas that other organizations can adapt.
The strongest projects demonstrate creativity, leadership, and measurable community impact. They change how we approach an issue, not just what we do about it.
For more details, please review the full Community Impact Award Guidelines before submitting your application.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants must serve Southeastern Alberta and be one of the following:
- A registered charity, municipality, or school division (qualified donee); or
- A non-profit or grassroots organization that partners with a qualified donee.
Additionally, organizations must also have no outstanding final reports from a previous Community Impact Award grant by the application deadline to qualify. An open Community Grant final report will not affect eligibility.
How many awards are available?
Only one $35,000 grant is awarded each year.
When will I be notified, and when are funds released?
Applicants will be notified of results within two months of the application deadline, following Board approval. Successful applicants must sign a Grant Agreement before funds are released.
Grant disbursements occur in May, and recipients are invited to attend a grant celebration event to share and highlight the impact their project will have on the community.
What support is available for applicants?
The Community Foundation is committed to ensuring an accessible and equitable application process for all applicants.
We offer technical support for anyone unfamiliar with our online Grant Portal and can accommodate oral or virtual applications upon request. Applicants who face barriers related to technology, language, or accessibility are encouraged to contact us for personalized support.
We’re here to help you share your idea confidently! Please reach out to our Grants Coordinator at grants@cfsea.ca or 403.527.9038.
We’re Here to Help!
Speak with our Grants and Communications Coordinator, Emily, today!
For more information, contact: