SASCU’s grant program is a structured, semi-annual funding process designed to focus community investment on high-impact themes that align with SASCU’s core values.
Our goal is to make strategic investments that build a stronger, more resilient Shuswap. Applications are reviewed and approved by the Community Engagement Committee during its March and November meetings.
Intake Period: August 10th, 2026 – October 2nd, 2026
Total Available Funding: Approx. $40,000
Theme: Empowerment
The Empowerment Grant supports initiatives that strengthen economic progress while building individual self-reliance and business resilience across the Shuswap. Successful projects will create lasting community impact through skill building, education, innovation, and entrepreneurial growth.
The Empowerment Grant supports innovative projects that strengthen the Shuswap by building skills, knowledge, and resilience across our communities. We believe lasting change happens when organizations, businesses, and community groups work together to create opportunities that benefit many people, not just a single organization.
We are looking for initiatives that foster collaboration, address economic needs, and create broad, lasting impact. Successful projects will help build community capacity, support economic resilience, encourage entrepreneurship, share knowledge, or develop skills that strengthen our region.
We are particularly interested in ideas that bring organizations together, leverage shared resources, and create outcomes that extend beyond the life of the grant.
The Empowerment Grant is an investment in the people, partnerships, and ideas that help our region thrive. If your project empowers others, strengthens community connections, and contributes to a more resilient Shuswap, we encourage you to apply.
Please note: The Empowerment Grant is intended to support projects with broad community benefit and lasting impact. Stand-alone workshops, conferences, or one-time events are generally not a funding priority unless they form part of a larger initiative that demonstrates significant community-wide outcomes and collaboration.
Education, Skills & Economic Resilience
The Empowerment Grant supports projects that help people develop the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to contribute to a strong local economy.
Workforce Development & Community Inclusion
The Empowerment Grant also supports initiatives that create pathways to employment while strengthening local businesses and the regional workforce.
The Empowerment Grant is an opportunity to strengthen economic progress including individual self-reliance and business resilience: skill building, innovation, education, and entrepreneurial growth.
Eligible applicants include nonprofits and not-for-profit community organizations that are based in and serve the Shuswap region. Projects involving cooperatives and collaborative partnerships that may or may not include the private sector are encouraged.
Approximately $40,000 is available for this grant cycle. Funding may be awarded to one project or divided among multiple successful applicants, depending on the scope and quality of the proposals. It is not guaranteed that all funds will be distributed.
Applications are accepted between August 10th 2026 and October 2nd
Grant recipients must use the awarded funds within 12 months of receiving them. The grant does not support multi-year projects or renewals.
All grant recipients are required to:
A successful proposal will:
Yes, in some cases. Organizations shortlisted for funding will be invited to present their project to the Committee on November 5, 2026. Applicants should ensure a representative from their organization is available to attend and present on this date. This gives the committee a chance to better understand your goals, answer questions, and ensure alignment with SASCU’s funding priorities.
If you're unsure whether your project is a good fit or need support with the application process, you can contact Erin Stagg, Community Lead at community@sascu.com
Apply online during the intake period [insert application link] The application form, grant details, and additional resources will be available on our website. Applications are submitted through Do Some Good, so your organization will need to create a free profile on the platform before starting the application.
Applicants will be notified within a week of the November 5th, 2026, presentation date, once the Community Engagement Committee of the SASCU Board of Directors reviews and makes decisions on applications.
Through community support, we help a wide range of initiatives that enhance our lifestyle and make our community a better place.
Philanthropic gifts that address real need and improve access for grassroots efforts and community organizations.
Support for community events and initiatives that align with SASCU’s values and offer meaningful visibility.
every step of the way.
