Columbia Basin SMART Grants are now available to help Fernie and Elk Valley non-profits cut energy costs, reduce emissions, and upgrade aging infrastructure.
Delivered by the Columbia Basin Trust, the program funds practical improvements—solar installations, energy retrofits, and electric vehicles with charging stations. It is open to registered non-profits and First Nations across the Basin with broad community impact.
Eligible groups include food banks, libraries, seniors organizations, childcare providers, community halls, and arts and culture venues. These are the same organizations managing older buildings and rising operating costs, often with limited capital to invest in upgrades.
The funding comes at a time when infrastructure gaps are well documented locally. The Hosmer Fire Hall review identified major deficiencies in building systems, safety, and long-term functionality—issues common across older community facilities in the region . While SMART Grants won’t solve full rebuilds, they can address key upgrades like heating efficiency, insulation, and power use.
The value is straightforward: lower operating costs, improved buildings, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.
Applications are open to Basin organizations looking to make measurable improvements now, not years down the line.
