Alberta Boosts Diversity

Alberta Boosts Diversity and Inclusion Through $13.5 Million Ethnocultural and Anti-Racism Grants

Alberta has reopened its Ethnocultural and Anti-Racism Grants, reaffirming the province’s vision of building a society rooted in inclusion, equality, and respect. With a $13.5-million investment over three years, the program supports community-led initiatives that promote diversity, celebrate culture, and fight racism at every level. According to Muhammad Yaseen, Associate Minister of Multiculturalism, the goal is simple, to ensure Alberta remains a safe and welcoming province for everyone. The funding aims to strengthen multicultural connections while helping organizations take a stand against discrimination.

What the Ethnocultural Grant Program Supports

The Ethnocultural Grant Program encourages projects that bring Albertans together through shared cultural experiences.

Funding includes:

  • Up to $50,000 for initiatives that foster connections between ethnocultural and Indigenous groups.
  • Up to $15,000 for events or projects that celebrate diversity and promote cross-cultural dialogue.
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For example, the Philippine Arts Council Alberta used previous funding to launch Contemplating the Tapestry of Filipino-Canadian Connections,” an art exhibit celebrating the intertwined stories of Filipino and Canadian communities.

Such initiatives go beyond celebration; they build mutual respect and lasting community bonds.

Anti-Racism Grant Program: Fighting Discrimination Head-On

The Anti-Racism Grant Program provides resources to organizations focused on dismantling prejudice and promoting equality.

Funding levels include:

  • Up to $10,000 for projects that educate Albertans and enhance anti-racism capacity.
  • Up to $5,000 for local initiatives that raise awareness about racism and its impacts.

Organizations have used this support to hold community workshops, educational campaigns, and dialogue sessions that address discrimination in practical, action-oriented ways. As Matthew Gaye, President of Cycle of Trust, shared, “The funding gave us the tools to host community conversations, hire expert facilitators, and create educational resources that truly made a difference.”

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Application Details and Eligibility

Applications for both grant programs are now open and will close on December 19, 2025.
Information sessions will be held on:

  • October 21 – Ethnocultural Grant Information Session
  • October 23 – Anti-Racism Grant Information Session

Eligible Applicants Include

  • Non-profit organizations
  • Multicultural and faith-based groups
  • First Nations and Métis Settlements
  • Educational institutions (schools, post-secondary, and school boards)

Alberta’s Record of Supporting Diversity

In 2024-25, Alberta invested $5.5 million through these programs, benefitting nearly 200 community organizations. In 2023-24, funding of $5.5 million supported 230 organizations, helping to strengthen relationships among Alberta’s diverse communities. These continued investments show the province’s focus on creating a space where every individual, regardless of culture, race, or background, can thrive.

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Building Stronger, More Inclusive Communities

The reopening of Alberta’s Ethnocultural and Anti-Racism Grants represents more than financial support, it’s a collective step toward unity, equality, and progress. By empowering local communities, the province is ensuring Alberta remains a model of diversity, inclusion, and opportunity. At ImmigCanada, we celebrate initiatives like these that reflect the true essence of Canada, a nation built on multicultural harmony and shared values.

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