Alberta’s government made changes to the provincial platform for crowdfunding, which was first introduced in 2021. This allows non-profits easier access to provincial funds.
The website lists dozens of organisations. Alberta Crowdfunding Program Website, an largely undiscovered platform which helps groups to tap into Albertans’ collective giving power while gaining access to matching funds by the province.
The site, which was launched in 2021 has already helped raise over $1 million for 205 organisations. This includes $191,000 of matching grants by the Province.
Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and the Status of Women, said to LWC that it was a good way to allow people to review the various non-profits doing amazing work and make it easier and more efficient for Albertans.
Platforms can be accessed all year round, depending on the province. Campaigns can also generate matching funds of up to $5,000. The Alberta government invested nearly $150,000 in these campaigns by 2023.
“We see it as an additional tool or channel for stimulating generosity, charity and philanthropy,” said Minister Fir.
Fir responded that they already invest $130 millions in grant programs such as the Community Facility Enhancement Program and Community Initiatives.
Fir noted that “for every dollar of CFEP funding invested in a community, the community raises up to three dollars,” he said.
There are many ways to help non-profits.
Calgary Connection to Non-Profit Funding Portal
The Calgary Climate Hub, Calgary John Howard Society, Calgary Police Youth Foundation and Alberta River Surfing Association are among the groups in the Calgary area that have benefited from this platform.
Annual Sled Island Festival of Music and Arts Crowdfunding in Alberta has attracted a number of new participants.
In the current economic climate, it is more important than ever for non-profits to raise funds in order to survive, said Maud Salvi. Executive director at Sled Island.
The funds raised by Sled Island through the platform Crowdfunding Alberta, from both individual donors as well as the Government.
“The support of Alberta has helped us to continue to provide world-class experiences to Albertans.”
Fir explained that some organizations, even if they don’t qualify for larger grants such as CFEP or CIP, can raise money through this platform. All campaigns have been pre-screened, so donors will know they are giving money to well-respected organizations.
She said: “We are able to assure our donors that the money they donate will go towards organizations that have been trusted and that support a cause or organization that is important to them.”
We want as many avenues and methods possible, and we are proud that our government supports the non-profits’ work to keep communities vibrant.