At the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, we work proactively to be a good neighbour, inspiring community connections, fostering relationships with First Nations, and upholding safety and security. One of the ways we work to create strong, vibrant port communities is with our community investment program. Through this program, we support, sponsor, and donate to important initiatives in our surrounding communities.
The community investment program investments support three key pillars:
- Thriving communities
- Heathy environment
- Education
Learn more about these pillars on the program application form.
Applying for funding
Our community investment program accepts funding requests for:
- Programs that enable access to basic needs such as food and shelter, create safe communities or training opportunities for employment
- Community events and arts and culture initiatives that strengthen the community connections or provide free or low-cost ways for people to participates or attend
- Environmental projects and initiatives that focus on air and climate action, water, land, and/or biodiversity
- Indigenous-led projects and initiatives within the port authority’s jurisdiction
Priority is given to projects and initiatives that:
- Serve the communities close to port operations in our jurisdiction
- Align with the three key pillars listed above
Because of the high number of funding applications we receive each year, we are not able to support every request. We are also not able to accept phone calls or meet with applicants to discuss the application.
If you have questions specific to the online application form, contact grantsupport@benevity.com
For all other questions, contact community.investment@portvancouver.com.
Before applying, please review the funding guidelines below to ensure your project or initiative is eligible. Applications are prioritized based on program criteria and other factors, and therefore it is not possible to fund all applications received.
There are two funding application intakes each calendar year:
- February: for projects and initiatives that require funding between March and August
- August: for projects and initiatives that require funding between September and January
The following organizations and/or activities are not eligible to receive funding through our community investment program:
- Major capital projects and campaigns
- Sports teams, athletes, tournaments, equipment or travel costs
- Parent advisory councils (PACs)
- Political, lobbyist or religious organizations
- Fundraising events (golf tournaments and galas)
- Conferences
- Private events
- Neighbourhood block parties
- Camps
- Healthcare
- Individual fundraising efforts
- Requests for 100% of a project’s budget
- Exclusive organizations that limit or bar participation based on race, religion, culture, gender or sexual orientation
Scholarships
We partner with educational institutions to provide scholarships and bursaries to students furthering a career in port-related disciplines. Please contact the institutions directly for application information.
- Capilano University Foundation – Scholarship Endowment (International Business and Logistics)
- BCIT Foundation – Port of Vancouver Scholarship in Memory of Christopher T. Brown
- BCIT Foundation – Port of Vancouver Entrance Award in Memory of Richard. C. Pearce
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University – Vancouver Fraser Port Authority Bursary for a First Nations student from: Musqueam, Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, Katzie, Kwantlen, Semiahmoo or Tsawwassen
Light for a cause
The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority offers local charities and non-profit events the opportunity to build awareness for their cause or organization by illuminating the Canada Place sails in colours themed to the specific cause on select days. Please visit the Canada Place website to learn more about the Sails of Light program.