Community-Foundation

Since 2000, the Kootenay Savings Community Foundation has contributed millions to support nonprofit initiatives across the Kootenays— enhancing culture, education, the economy, the environment, health, and social well-being. In collaboration with our partners, we remain committed to helping our communities thrive.

We invite you to explore our latest Annual Report to see the impact of our collective efforts and the incredible projects we’ve supported over the past year. It’s a celebration of community spirit, meaningful partnerships, and the difference we’re making—together.

If your organization is seeking funding of more than $1,000 for a one-time project or initiative, read on for application details. We encourage your group to review the funding criteria below before applying.

Our Community Impact

Since its inception, the foundation has

Granted over

$5.90M

to deserving community projects & initiatives

Awarded

630 Groups

funding for their
community projects

Donated

$475,000

to disaster relief, health initiatives,
speaking series & food security

Tips for a Well-Prepared Funding Request

When preparing your application, please consider the following:

Applicants must be registered not-for-profit organizations, charities, local governments, Indigenous organizations, or other qualified community groups.
Projects must align with one or more of our four funding pillars:
- Economic Development
- Health
- Housing
- Youth Employment & Retention
Demonstrate how your project will create measurable and lasting community impact.
Clearly identify the need being addressed and the anticipated outcomes.
Collaborative applications are strongly encouraged. We welcome partnerships between organizations that share common goals and can leverage collective expertise, resources, and community connections.
Include a realistic project plan, budget, and evidence of community support where applicable.

Additional Information

This is a special one-time funding opportunity celebrating the Kootenay Savings Community Foundation's 30th Anniversary.
Ten grants of $10,000 are available across the Kootenay Savings service area.
Applications will be accepted September 1 to September 30, 2026.
Funding decisions will consider community need, potential impact, geographic reach, and opportunities to benefit communities of all sizes throughout the Kootenays.

The Fine Print - What's Not Eligible?

Community Foundation Funding applications typically not considered for funding include:

One-time events
Research projects, including studies and surveys
Salaries, wages, or employee benefits
Government entities
For-profit organizations
Private businesses

Ready to Apply for a Community Impact Grant?

As part of the Kootenay Savings Community Foundation's 30th Anniversary Celebration, we're offering a one-time funding

opportunity of 10 grants of $10,000 for projects that align with our four pillars.

We encourage like-minded organizations to work together, combining their expertise, resources, and community connections to create a meaningful and lasting impact across the Kootenays.

Applications open September 1 to September 30, 2026

Click here for > Application Instructions.

Apply Now

Read about our most recent grant recipient's here!

Featured Community Group

The Trail Historical Society started back in 1953, where a small group of local history buffs met to discuss ways to protect and preserve the history of Trail. Initially the group collected historical photos and artifacts with plans to establish a museum. In 1977 this became a reality and a bigger improvement came in 2017 with the opening of the Trail Riverfront Centre where amazing collections, exhibits and programming are offered and on display.

Interested in having a membership and supporting the work of the society? Visit their website for more information and get a look at the amazing history
of Trail!

Check out their website here to learn more about the history of Trail!

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of projects does the Kootenay Savings Community Foundation support?

Projects considered for funding include one-time requests for larger legacy purchases (such as sporting or art enrichment equipment), other types of equipment, renovation funding, food security initiatives, capital projects, and community beautification, to name a few.

What type of organizations can apply for funding?

The following organizations are encouraged to apply for funding; however, eligibility does not ensure funding approval.

Non-profit organizations
Organizations that are free from political, racial, religious, or gender bias.

Is my organization required to be a member of Kootenay Savings Credit Union?

No, your community group does not need to be a member of Kootenay Savings Credit Union to be considered for funding. If your project is aimed at improving the communities served by Kootenay Savings, we encourage you to apply for funding.

When are the application periods?

Applications open bi-annually on August 15 and close on September 30 at 5:00 PM PST, and on February 15, closing on March 31 at 5:00 PM PST.

When are the projects required to be completed by?

Approved for funding projects must be completed within two years of receiving notification of successful funding.

What information will be asked to share on the application?

Here are some of the details you’ll need to share on the Do Some Good application:

Your charity registration number (if applicable)
Contact information
Project details and the impact to the community
Amount requested, total estimated cost of project and names of other sources of funding
Project budget
Recognition benefits available if your project is selected

How much money can my organization apply for?

Project funding in the past has ranged from $1000 to $15,000 depending on the impact the project is expected to have on our communities and the number of application received in the funding period.

If our application is successful, when can our group expect to see the funds deposited?

Funds will be paid out by electronic funds transfer to your groups financial institution after your project start date has been confirmed or your item(s) have been purchased.

Can my organization submit more than one application in a year?

No, the foundation does not provide ongoing funding for projects or initiatives. Funding is limited to one-time requests.

Can I save a copy of my application and return later?

Yes, you will have the option to “Finish Later” when filling in the application.

Can I make changes to my application after it has been submitted?

If you would like to make a change to your application, please email kootenaysavings.communityfoundation@kscu.com with any additional information you would like to provide. Once the application process closes, you will no longer have access to your application.

Since 2004 we’ve outfitted our dedicated and passionate employees with a Care Wear shirt. Our amazing employees pay $1.00 per week to participate in this legacy program. Together, with matching funds from the Kootenay Savings Community Foundation, we’ve raised an astounding $455,974 since the program began. Employees decide which lucky community group will receive their funds that are matched by our Community Foundation.

Proudly Supporting Local Canadian Companies
Our partner, VH Sports, produces our Care Wear shirts right here in the Kootenays!

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