WestMET Community Grant Fund
WestMET Group Canada Ltd. has established the WestMET Community Fund with an initial gift of $42,880 to the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta. WestMET has committed to making an annual contribution for the next 25 years, helping strengthen our region both now and into the future.
Each year, a portion of their gift will be granted directly back into the community, while the remainder will be invested in the WestMET Community endowment fund for lasting impact. This new grant stream will support local initiatives and community-based organizations serving the people of Special Area 2, the Town of Hanna, and the Village of Youngstown.
To view a full listing of past grant recipients, click here
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Key Dates
Application Opens
March 2, 2026, at 12:00 pm
Application Deadline
March 27, 2026, at 4:30 pm
Granting Priorities
WestMET Community Grants may be used to support capital, operating, program, or special one-time costs within the following priority focus areas:
- Supporting initiatives that benefit First Nations and Métis people whose traditional territory includes the municipalities listed above. Priority is given to programs operating directly within First Nations and Métis communities.
- Strengthening geographic communities located near the WestMET site through events, facilities, programs, and organizations that help build strong, vibrant, and connected communities.
- Advancing ecological stewardship through community-driven projects focused on preservation, restoration, land care, and environmental education.
- Meeting the needs of children and youth through education, recreation, leadership development, and safety initiatives. Priority is given to programs that foster individual and community-based leaders.
- Promoting individual and community well-being by supporting programs that address the social determinants of health and help families thrive.
First Nations & Métis
Local Communities
Environmental
Youth & Education
Health & Wellness
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants must serve Special Area 2, the Town of Hanna, or the Village of Youngstown 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 WestMET Community Grant cycle. An open Community Grant final report will not affect eligibility.
How much funding can I request?
A total of $18,730 is available for WestMET Community Grants in 2026. You may request the amount needed for your project; however, we encourage applicants to “right-size” their request to align with the total funds available and the number of anticipated applications. Partial funding may be awarded based on available resources and project strength.
Will I receive the full amount I request?
Funding is competitive, and while applicants may request the amount needed for their project, full funding is not guaranteed. The Advisory Committee may award full or partial amounts based on project strength, alignment with priorities, geographic balance, and total funds available ($18,730 in 2026).
When will I be notified, and when are funds released?
Applicants are 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, following the spring and fall granting cycles, 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 Regional Development Coordinator at helene@cfsea or 403.866.8901.
We’re Here to Help!
Speak with our Regional Development Coordinator, Helene, today!
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