There are a good number of wonderful organizations that offer funding for various groups to access the outdoors.
We have collected some programs that we are aware of. Some are paddling-related, others are for other (quite wonderful) outdoor programs or sports.
If you know of any programs or grants that provide funding please don’t hesitate to reach out, so we can share them here.
Please note that we are not associated with those organizations or the opportunities and are not responsible for the work they do or the programs they provide.
Paddle Canada Youth Paddling Grant
Youth who want to take Paddling Courses
Youth, up to the age of 18 may apply for a small grant to help pay for their fees on a Paddle Canada course.
Alternatively, a group representing youth could apply for a small grant to help hire a Paddle Canada instructor to deliver a course to their group.
When applying applicants will be asked to submit a short essay (up to 500 words) on why they paddle.
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Jericho Beach Kayak Camp Subsidy
Kids and Youth (7-15) who want to enroll in our Summer Camps
We love to share the love for kayaking and the outdoors with as many kids and youth as possible and believe that everybody deserves the chance to participate in and experience the outdoors.
We want to provide accessible options for kids and youth to participate in our programs and therefore are able to offer a limited number of subsidized spots in our summer camps to families who otherwise wouldn't be able to participate.
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RBC Future Launch Scholarship
Youth and young adults who want to learn something new
A $1,500 scholarship that is open to anybody (no need to be in school) which can be used for many different things, including: Certificates (e.g. Paddle Canada Instructor Certifications), Short-term courses, Workshops, Necessary equipment or books.
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Colour the Trails
Accessible outdoor programs for BIPOC and 2SLGBTAQI+ folks
Colour the Trails offers community events and mentorship programs on trails, waves, and slopes. Their programs build community and experience joy. We often partner with them to offer Kayaking programs at a discounted cost, and they also offer other great outdoor programs and mentorship opportunities.
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Outward Bound
Youth interested in Outdoor Programs
Fantastic outdoor programs for individual youth and youth or school groups.
Courses have a fee, but they have a ‘pay what you can’ approach and the Youth Access Fund (YAF) provides grants that subsidize the cost of their course fees.
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Outward Bound Training Academy
Adults 18+ who want to work in the outdoors
A fully-funded outdoor leadership training through immersive workshops, outdoor journeys (including kayaking!), virtual learning, mentorship and certifications. They specifically focus on inclusivity. They have two program levels: for those just starting out, and for semi-experienced professionals.
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Ocean Wise Youth Programs
Youth and young adults with a passion for the ocean and conservation
Various programs as well as grant for youth 15-30 years old. Programs are between 3 and 10 months long and are fully funded. The programs focus on ocean conservation and ambassadorship.
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The L.A. Foundation
Training for female identifying folks
The L.A. Foundation offers funding for different kind of outdoor courses (e.g. Wilderness First Aid, Avalanche Safety Training, Climbing, etc.) as well as various free (or low-cost) events for female identifying folks who love the outdoors.
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MEC Community Grants
For groups
The MEC community grants provide groups with funding for the outdoors. They currently offer two kinds of grants: "Queer Gear Kits" that supports 2SLGBTQIA+ community groups in getting more folks outside as well as "Community Grants" which will support outdoor projects.
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Bob Swanson Memorial Grant
Adventurers looking for expedition funding
Funding for an outdoor expedition (for example kayaking!). They award $500-$1,000 for unique outdoor expeditions.
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Students on Ice
Youth 14-24 years old
Expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctic with funding available for participants.
A team of scientists, Elders, artists, musicians, historians, knowledge keepers, visionary leaders, engage and support youth in their learning journeys.
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Adventure Canada Young Explorers Program
Young adults 18-30 years old
Participation in a fully funded Small-Ship Expedition to the Arctic.
Applicants will propose a project ranging from a scientific focus to social science and the arts. The parameters of the project are flexible and can include a one-time small-scale project or an exploratory stepping stone for a larger project. Both independent-interest projects and academic research proposals are accepted.
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Gear Up
Youth 15-30 who are interested in bikes
Free 13-week program that equips youth ages 15 - 30 with the skills, certification and employer connections necessary to work as a bike mechanic.
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Women Divers Hall of Fame
Mostly female identifying folks in marine research, marine conservation or diving
The Women Divers Hall of Fame offers various scholarships as well as educational, mentorship, financial, and career opportunities to the diving community throughout the world.