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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 secuirty
 
We are committed to supporting community-driven initiatives within our service areas. Please review the criteria below before applying:
  • Be a not-for-profit organization.
  • Be free from political, racial, religious, or gender bias.
  • Ensure the project contributes to the well-being of the communities served by Kootenay Savings.
  • Provide proof that funding has been sought from other sources.
  • Include details demonstrating that your project will be successful.
Additional Information:
  • Please allow 8–10 weeks after the application deadline for a response.
  • Applications are accepted twice a year: February 15 to March 31 and August 15 to September 30.
  • If your project depends on funding before our notification timeline, we recommend applying during the next funding cycle. 
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 
 
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Ready to Apply for Funding?

Applications open bi-annually on
August 15 to September 30 
February 15 to March 31

Click here for > Application Instructions. 
 
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!

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Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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.
Approved for funding projects must be completed within two years of receiving notification of successful funding.
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
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.
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.
No, the foundation does not provide ongoing funding for projects or initiatives. Funding is limited to one-time requests.
Yes, you will have the option to “Finish Later” when filling in the application.
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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For over five decades it has been an honour to be part of our communities and we’re committed to being here for decades to come.  Opening an account? Buying your first home? Saving for retirement? Choose your financial destination, and let’s make sure you take the best route.

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