Community Spirit Program

Whether it's is a donation of $10 a month or $100 a month, Albertans know the importance of charitable giving. In fact, Albertans are already some of the most giving and generous people anywhere, and it is through this giving that the Alberta government has developed the Community Spirit Program.

Two components make up the Community Spirit Program: a new Donation Grant Program and the Enhanced Charitable Tax Credit.

Donation Grant Program:

  • Donor-driven program. Funding details to be announced as part of Budget 2008.
  • The program will be available to all eligible non-profit organizations and Canada Revenue Agency-registered charities that provide direct services to Albertans and Alberta communities for philanthropic purposes.
  • Grants will be calculated on a proportional basis and based on cash donations received by the eligible organization.
  • The maximum grant is $25,000 per year, with total grants not to exceed $50,000 over three-years.
  • Grants can be used for operations, projects, programming and small capital projects.
  • Program guidelines will be available April 1. The annual grant submission deadline will be in October.

Enhanced Charitable Tax Credit

  • Effective January 1, 2007, the Alberta government raised the charitable tax credit for eligible annual donations above $200 by 60 per cent.
  • Including the federal credit, Albertans now receive a 50-cent tax credit for every dollar donated over the $200 threshold. The increase gives Alberta one of the highest charitable tax credits in Canada.

Program parameters for the Donation Grant Program were developed based on recommendations from an MLA Committee. The committee used research and consultation with other jurisdictions, voluntary sector organizations and the public to develop its recommendations, which were submitted in an MLA Committee Report.

News

Government boosts support for Alberta charities and non-profits

Audio Message from the Premier (MP3)

Government seeks input from Albertans on charitable giving program

MLA committee named

Charities and Albertans benefit from increased tax credit

The Donation Grant Program is the next step to doing our part to help Alberta's voluntary and charitable sectors meet changing needs. Developing the Community Spirit Program was one of the key priorities provided to me by the Premier. This program will benefit organizations across our province with the goal of increasing private charitable giving and enhancing Albertans' quality of life.

-Minister Hector Goudreau

Premier Stelmach's mandate letter to Minister Goudreau