The investment will help remove barriers to sport and encourage more opportunities to take part in local organized sport.

“One of our government’s top priorities is helping Canadians of all ages pursue healthier lifestyles. We know there are still major barriers to sport today. That is why we are investing in organizations like Canoe Kayak Canada to help solidify our commitment to building stronger and healthier communities across the country. Together, we are making sport more inclusive, equitable and accessible for everyone across the country.” 

—The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec

"Canadians depend on sports and recreation for their physical and mental health, a sense of community and belonging as well as fun. Getting out on the water and learning how to paddle a canoe or kayak is one of the most quintessentially Canadian summer experiences, and more people deserve access to these opportunities. I’m proud of our government’s partnership with Canoe Kayak Canada as we support Canadians in their pursuit of healthy, happy lifestyles. I hope to see more Canadians enjoying time out on the water with their friends this summer. Happy paddling!”

– Adam van Koeverden, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health and to the Minister of Sport

“We have an immense amount of gratitude for the support of Sport Canada and Minister St-Onge. Paddling is an inclusive sport enjoyed by many Canadians as a lifelong activity. With this support from the government, we are breaking down more barriers and welcoming so many more deserving participants who will now be able to create wonderful memories on and off the water.”

—Kenna Robins, Director of National Program Development, Canoe Kayak Canada

• The Community Sport for All Initiative aims to restore and increase participation in sport, particularly among Black, Indigenous and 2SLGBTQI+ communities as well as people with low incomes, newcomers and persons with disabilities. 

• Canoe Kayak Canada is a national sport organization that, with its provincial members, provides sport-related programs and services to promote canoe and kayak development in Canada. The organization is also the national body for competitive paddling in Canada. Canoe Kayak Canada is comprised of a community of athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, staff and supporters from coast to coast.

Related products

• Parliamentary Secretary Adam van Koeverden announces new funding to remove barriers and improve inclusivity in Canadian sport

Associated links

• Community Sport for All Initiative – Sport Support Program
• Funded national-level organizations (2022–2023)
• Budget 2023 – $13.8 million over three years to enhance accountability and support efforts to build a safe and accountable sport system.
• Budget 2023 – $10 million over two years, to support national programming that aims to increase daily physical activity among Canadians.
• Budget 2021 – $80 million over two years, starting in 2021-22, to remove barriers to participation in sports programming and to help community organizations kick-start local organized sports that are accessible to all.
• Canoe Kayak Canada

For more information (media only), please contact:

Ariane Joazard-Bélizaire
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
ariane.joazard-belizaire@pch.gc.ca

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
1-819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca