Before you apply
On this page
Get ready to apply
Only projects that best align with program objectives, priorities, and expected results will be chosen. To prepare a strong application you should:
- Check eligibility in the Who can apply section
- Understand what can be funded in the Program information section
- Review the complete program materials as described on this website and in the applicant guide to understand the application requirements and process
- Assign a project lead from your organization to be a primary contact that PrairiesCan will engage with for the project
- Gather all the documentation that PrairiesCan is requesting for the application
We encourage you to contact a PrairiesCan office prior to submitting an application – a PrairiesCan officer can help answer your questions related to eligibility and the application process.
Elements of a strong proposal
The BCSF is a competitive process. Submitted applications undergo a due diligence process where we further assess them against the following criteria:
- Demonstrates clear alignment with BCSF objectives and priorities:
- Shovel-ready project (all required permits secured, environmental assessments completed, detailed design and project execution plan, confirmed cost estimates and funding in place, etc.)
- For projects in Alberta, this may include being able to demonstrate that you have obtained written approval under the Provincial Priorities Act or are exempt.
- Leverages greater funding from other sources of support (more than 50% of total project costs) that is confirmed with written proof*
- Are a priority as identified by local, provincial, Indigenous governments, or as identified within federal government strategies (e.g., strategic plans, council resolutions, letters of support from municipal associations)
- Contributes to the success of communities with major projects
- Generates economic benefits for the community, region, and/or Canada such as job creation and attracting investment or workers
- Shovel-ready project (all required permits secured, environmental assessments completed, detailed design and project execution plan, confirmed cost estimates and funding in place, etc.)
- Addresses a clear need, gap or opportunity in the community, region, and/or Canada
- Describes the community impact and economic benefits
- A comprehensive project plan that demonstrates the viability of the project (e.g., management capability, financial capacity) (refer to the applicant guide)
*Written proof, confirmed or conditional upon PrairiesCan’s funding, will be considered acceptable confirmation of non-PrairiesCan funding. Examples of written proof include current bank statements detailing existing cash balances or the unused portion of lines of credit. If third parties are included in project funding, letters of intent or funding agreements from third parties may be acceptable.
Only submissions demonstrating the highest merit and fit with BCSF objectives and priorities will be considered for funding. Many good projects will not receive support under BCSF.
Expected results
PrairiesCan will prioritize projects demonstrating the strongest potential with lasting economic impacts. Recipients must measure, substantiate, and report on these expected results during and after the project:
- Number of jobs created
- this equates to the number of highly qualified personnel (defined as individuals with university degrees at the bachelor’s level and above) including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) jobs created plus the number of non-HQP jobs created
- Number of community public spaces created, improved or expanded
PrairiesCan is working to improve the economic participation of underrepresented groups such as Indigenous peoples, women, and youth. Applicants are encouraged to report on efforts to support inclusiveness.
Refer to the applicant guide for more information on project indicators and expected results.