The Western Communities Foundation (WCF), the charitable arm of Western Financial Group, has opened applications for its 2025 Community Infrastructure Grants, inviting Canadian municipalities, non-profits, and community groups to apply for funding that strengthens local resilience.
Each year, the program provides $5,000 grants to projects that enhance publicly owned spaces, with a focus on climate adaptation, disaster preparedness, accessibility, sustainability, and safety. Applications will be accepted until November 3, 2025.
“Strong communities are built through collaboration, care, and connection,” said Nancy Green-Bolton, Western Financial Group’s COO and WCF board chair. “These grants empower local leaders to create inclusive spaces that not only protect what matters, but also bring people together, foster meaningful relationships, and help communities thrive socially, emotionally, and physically.”
Since its launch in 2004, the program has distributed more than $2.4 million in grants to over 490 projects nationwide, supporting upgrades to parks, community centres, and public facilities.
While these grants directly benefit local communities, they also align with growing priorities within the insurance sector. Investments in climate resilience and disaster risk reduction help mitigate future losses from severe weather, which continue to drive up claims costs across Canada. Enhancements in safety and accessibility can also lower liability exposures for municipalities and organizations, reducing pressure on insurers and policyholders alike.
The program reflects a broader trend of insurers taking a proactive role in risk prevention. By supporting infrastructure that reduces exposure to climate and safety risks, insurers like Western Financial Group are not only contributing to stronger communities but also advancing their own environmental, social and governance (ESG) commitments. Such initiatives can ease future strain on catastrophe reinsurance markets and create a more sustainable foundation for affordable coverage.
Applications are open to municipalities, CRA-registered non-profit organizations, and community groups working on infrastructure development. Eligible projects must be publicly accessible and demonstrate measurable benefits to their communities, WCF said.
