[Edmonton Community Foundation](https://ecf.ca)

February 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)

$15,000–$100,000 per project; projects may run up to 3 years with all funding used by 2028.

Supports programs that foster outdoor play for children and youth in the Greater Edmonton Area, promoting creativity, confidence, and social connection.

Forecasted cycle; eligibility and requirements may update—check program page for latest details.

--- ## Description The Free to Play Initiative, supported by the Edmonton Community Foundation and other community foundations across Canada, funds projects that create safe, engaging outdoor play opportunities for children and youth. The program aims to reduce screen time, encourage exploration, and foster creativity, confidence, and a sense of belonging through unstructured, outdoor activities. Funding is intended to remove barriers to outdoor play and support local solutions that help children thrive physically, mentally, and socially. --- ## Due Dates - February 2027 (anticipated/projected full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant range: $15,000–$100,000 per project. - Projects may last up to 3 years, with all activities and spending to be completed by 2028. - Total pool for the Edmonton region: approximately $766,000 available across 2026–2027 cycles. Applicants are encouraged to request the amount needed for meaningful and lasting impact. --- ## Eligibility **Eligible Applicants:** - Registered charities and incorporated non-profit organizations (including Indigenous Governing Bodies, school boards, schools, and local organizations registered federally or provincially). - Organizations must be based in—and serve—the Greater Edmonton Area, including Leduc, Parkland, Strathcona, and Sturgeon counties, as well as Indigenous-serving organizations in Treaty 6 Territory. **Ineligible Applicants:** - For-profit organizations, unincorporated nonprofits, business associations, chambers of commerce, condominium associations, and individuals. **Eligible Activities:** - Projects that support outdoor play for children and youth, such as nature-based programming, cultural play traditions, open-ended adventures, caregiver involvement, or re-imagining community spaces for play. - Activities must occur within the area served by a participating foundation and support Free to Play’s objectives. **Ineligible Activities:** - Projects outside Canada, closed events, one- or two-day events without lasting impact, partisan or religious activities, research-only projects, virtual programming for children, equipment-only purchases, major capital projects, or those involving the purchase of electronic devices. --- ## Application Process 1. Review detailed eligibility and program information on the [Free to Play program page](https://ecf.ca/grants/free-to-play/). 2. Prepare your application, ensuring alignment with the initiative’s goals and eligibility. 3. Submit through the [Community Foundations of Canada Application Portal](https://communityfoundations.smartsimple.ca/s_Login.jsp) during the anticipated intake period. 4. Only one application per organization is allowed, but collaborations are encouraged. 5. Selection is carried out by a local review committee, with some foundations using participatory grantmaking approaches. **Required Materials:** - Project description and alignment with Free to Play objectives - Budget form detailing use of funds - Timeline of activities - Evidence of organizational eligibility **Reporting:** - Funded recipients will complete a final report and may be asked for a midway check-in. --- ## Additional Information - Projects can begin in 2026 and may continue for up to three years, but all funding must be used by 2028. - The initiative emphasizes community benefit, feasibility, readiness, and long-term local impact. - Recipients will be invited to join learning events and a community of practice on outdoor play. - Accessibility support is available for applicants as needed. --- ## External Links - [Edmonton Community Foundation – Free to Play Program Page](https://ecf.ca/grants/free-to-play/) - [Community Foundations of Canada – Free to Play Initiative](https://communityfoundations.ca/initiatives/free-to-play/) - [Applicant Guide (PDF)](https://communityfoundations.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Free-to-Play-Applicant-Guide-EN.pdf) - [Application Portal](https://communityfoundations.smartsimple.ca/s_Login.jsp) - [FAQ (PDF)](https://ecf.ca/wp-content/uploads/FTP-Frequently-Asked-Questions-ENFR-1.pdf) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact Details | |----------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries (ECF) | [info@ecf.ca](mailto:info@ecf.ca) | 1-780-426-0015 | | Grants/Application Support (ECF) | [grants@ecf.ca](mailto:grants@ecf.ca) | | ECF Contact Page | [https://ecf.ca/who-we-are/contact/](https://ecf.ca/who-we-are/contact/) | | National Program (CFC) | [ndossous@communityfoundations.ca](mailto:ndossous@communityfoundations.ca) (Partnerships) |

Free to Play Initiative

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