A pressing issue for many community sport organizations is the ongoing challenge of securing sustainable funding. Funding is crucial for maintaining and expanding programs, purchasing necessary equipment, maintaining facilities, and supporting staff and volunteers. Given the importance of funding, the Ottawa Sport Council (OSC) is committed to providing educational material and opportunities related to funding (including a previous blog) to ensure that sport organizations can continue to be positive role models in their communities.
We know that both participant families and community sport organizations are feeling the pressure of increased costs related to sport. In April 2023, Canadian Tire Jumpstart released their latest edition of the Jumpstart State of Sport Report. From this report, we’ve learned that 81% of sport programmers reported increases in operational costs. At the same time, it was reported that 44% of families cannot afford to register their child in organized sport. Raising participant fees is not the best answer to securing sustainable funds.
Here are some other notable forms of funding:
- Grant funding for community sport organizations can come from both the government and other charitable organizations. These funds are often awarded based on competitive application processes. There is most often a specific objective that programs must meet to be eligible for funding.
- Private sponsorship agreements can provide financial support, products, or services in exchange for exposure and brand association with the organization. To attract and retain sponsors, organizations need to demonstrate their value to potential partners, often by showcasing the positive impact of their programs on the community and highlighting their alignment with the sponsor’s values.
- Donations from individuals, businesses, or foundations can also support community sport organizations. Fundraising activities such as charity events, crowdfunding campaigns, and donation drives can help raise much-needed funds.
In addition to traditional funding sources, organizations should explore innovative and collaborative approaches to secure funding. Partnering with other sport and community organizations can help leverage resources and share the costs of programs and initiatives. This can include partnering with your provincial or national sport organization.
To make the most of available funding, community sport organizations should adopt strategic planning and efficient resource management practices. A well-thought-out strategic plan can help organizations prioritize their goals, allocate resources effectively, and demonstrate their value to potential funders. A transparent and accountable approach to managing funds can help organizations gain the trust of their stakeholders and ensure long-term sustainability.
In an increasingly competitive funding landscape, community sport organizations must be proactive and creative in securing the resources necessary to fulfill their mission. By understanding the various funding sources available, exploring innovative and collaborative approaches, and engaging in strategic planning, community sport organizations can overcome funding challenges and continue to provide meaningful sport experiences for their participants and communities.
Current Opportunity: Apply for the 2023 Community Opportunity Grant Now!
As community sport organizations continue to strive for increased inclusivity and accessibility, the Ottawa Sport Council is proud to announce the 2023 Community Opportunity Grant. This grant, made possible through a charitable endowment fund in partnership with the Ottawa Community Foundation and Their Opportunity, aims to help Ottawa community sport organizations improve inclusivity and accessibility to sport.
For the 2023 grant, the focus will be on programs that serve children and youth, supporting accessibility and inclusivity for those facing socio-economic barriers to participation in sport, as well as underrepresented and marginalized populations.
Key details for the 2023 Community Opportunity Grant include:
- Grant Window: Monday, May 15 to Friday, June 9 at 17:00 EST
- Amount Awarded: Up to $2,000
- Grant Duration: Up to 1 year
By taking advantage of this grant, organizations can strengthen their capacity to create impactful, inclusive, and accessible sport programs that benefit all members of the community. The Ottawa Sport Council encourages eligible organizations to apply and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and youth in our community through sport.
To learn more about this opportunity, click here.