Coquitlam is looking to buoy up community spirits once again.
The city is set to launch its latest application round for Spirit of Coquitlam grants on March 1, which help cover important or much-needed costs for local organizations and non-profits looking for a boost.
In December, city council awarded more than $201,000 for 25 groups to continue with capital projects and hosting special events.
Since 2002, Coquitlam said its distributed more than $9 million in grants to over 230 community organizations.
"The city awards Spirit of Coquitlam Grants twice a year. The spring 2023 application period targets projects taking place between spring 2023 and early winter 2024," explained Darryl Lal, Coquitlam's policy and business services manager.
"To be eligible for a Spirit of Coquitlam Grant, projects must take place in Coquitlam, primarily benefit Coquitlam residents, be sustainable beyond the grant funding, and have outcomes that align with the city's strategic goals. Applicants must also be in good financial standing with the city."
Applications from registered groups will be accepted until the end of March.
Funding amounts are set to be granted "based on the category and project," Lal added.
Two one-hour webinars are also scheduled to help interested non-profits understand how to become eligible for funds:
- March 7 at 2 p.m.
- March 8 at 6 p.m.
For more information about the Spirit of Coquitlam program, you can visit the city's website.
The next intake after the spring is scheduled for September 2023.
Recipients from the fall 2023 round of Spirit grant funding included (in numerical order per category):
Capital projects
- $6,100 = Burquest Jewish Community Association
- $4,700 = 4th Port Coquitlam Scouts
- $4,118 = Coquitlam Search and Rescue (SAR)
- $2,500 = Kateslem Youth Society
Community support
- $6,100 = Coquitlam Chorale Society
- $3,600 = Rotary Club of Coquitlam
- $2,600 = Tri-Cities Iranian-Canadian Mini-Soccer Society
- $1,033 = Hoy/Scott Watershed Society
- $1,000 = kʷikʷəƛ̓əm First Nation
Festivals and events
- $20,000 = North American Chinese Culture Promotion Society
- $20,000 = Tri-City Asian Arts and Culture Society
- $20,000 = Trinidad and Tobago Cultural Society of BC
- $15,850 = Austin Heights Business Improvement Association (BIA)
- $15,295 = Low Entropy
- $15,000 = Access Youth Outreach Society
- $15,000 = Asian Impact Society
- $15,000 = Coquitlam Skating Club
- $10,200 = Afghan Diaspora of Vancouver
- $6,070 = Oakdale Neighbourhood Association
- $1,500 = Baker Drive Elementary PAC
- $1,000 = Coquitlam Alliance Church
Sports equipment
- $5,000 = Tri-City Minor Ball Hockey Association
- $4,542 = Port Coquitlam Speed Skating Club
- $1,598 = United Rugby Club
Sport hosting
- $3,697 = Coquitlam Lions Water Polo
