Major Contributions Grant

At a Glance

Application Deadlines

March 1, 2025 at 11:59pm

Amount Available:

Minimum application amount: $25,000 for non-profit organizations and local governments

Maximum application amount: $200,000

Equity Requirement:

Non-profit organizations: 25%

Local governments: 50%

Who Can Apply?

Local Non-profit Organizations OR Local Governments

If you’ve got bold new ideas for large infrastructure and planning projects on Haida Gwaii, we’d love to hear from you!

Your Guide to the Major Contributions Grant

Does your organization have a vision for a large-scale project that will benefit the entire island community? In 2025, the Gwaii Trust Society has allocated $725,000 to assist with major contributions.

Your local organization may qualify to receive up to $200,000 from our Major Contributions Grant.

Interested? Here’s everything you need to know to apply.

The Major Contributions Grant Process

  1. Applications Open (6 weeks before deadline)
    • Ready to apply? You’ll need a clear plan for your project, an estimate of your costs, and any other sources of funding you have.
  2. Submit Your Application (Deadlines: March 1 by 11:59 PM)
    • Once you have everything you need, submit your application online through the Gwaii Trust portal. Make sure you include all required documents.
  3. Review and Decision (Within 2 Months)
    • Your application will be reviewed by the Gwaii Trust Board of Directors, who are responsible for making funding decisions. You can expect to hear from us within approximately two months.
    • We appreciate your patience and flexibility with your project start date, as occasional delays may occur due to meeting schedules.
  4. Approval and Next Steps
    • If your project is approved, review the terms, track your expenses, and wait until at least two months after the application deadline to start your project.
  5. Complete Your Project
    • Once you’ve completed your project, submit your final budget, receipts, photos, and a brief summary of what you achieved. We’d love to see the difference your project makes for the people of Haida Gwaii.

Questions about the Major Contributions Grant? We’d love to hear from you!

FAQs

  • We look for projects that align with the overall goal of building safer, healthier, and more vibrant communities. Specifically, we prioritize applications that support one or more of the following focus areas:
    • Improving Community Infrastructure: Projects that enhance public spaces, local facilities, and essential services for everyone
    • Promoting Health and Safety: Initiatives that support the wellbeing and safety of all island residents
    • Enhancing Community Beauty and Sustainability: Efforts that make communities more attractive, welcoming, and environmentally sustainable
    • Growing Local Economies: Projects that help make Haida Gwaii a more vibrant place for business and tourism
  • We also give preference to:
    • Initiatives that create or sustain long-term employment
    • Projects that involve partnerships, collaborations, or other funding sources
    • Applications that benefit multiple communities or the island as a whole
  • If your project supports any of these goals, it’s likely a strong fit. And if you’re unsure, just ask — we’re happy to help you figure it out.
  • The grant is flexible, but there are a few important limitations. Grant funds cannot be used for:
    • Core funding (like general operating costs or ongoing programs)
    • Expenses incurred before grant approval
    • Items listed as ineligible in the general grant guidelines
  • Always check the full guidelines or get in touch with us if you have questions — we’re here to support you.
  • We welcome projects that aim to make a meaningful, long-term impact. The grant supports initiatives in areas such as:
    • Community infrastructure
    • Economic development and job creation
    • Emergency preparedness
    • Environmental protection and sustainability
  • Projects can last up to two years, giving you time to make a real difference in the community.
  • The grant is open to local non-profit organizations and local governments. We’re looking to support projects that create meaningful, long-term benefits for island residents.
  • If you’re not sure if your organization qualifies, reach out — we’re happy to help.

For more information, please review our Major Contributions Grant Guide. We look forward to hearing from you!

Need More Information?

Tando Dwyer

Community Grants Specialist
Office: G̲aw Tlagée – Old Massett

Email: tando.dwyer@gwaiitrust.com
Ph: 250-626-7985

Michelle “Mik” Prouty

Community Grants Specialist
Office: HlG̲aagilda – Skidegate

Email: michelle.prouty@gwaiitrust.com
Ph: 250-637-1050

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