The 2023 Budget released by the Federal Government does not contain any significant changes for the non-profit sector. While the 2022 Budget introduced new changes to the sector relating to qualifying disbursements and the disbursement quota, the impact of the 2023 Budget on the non-profit sector is primarily limited to potential new funding opportunities. Some of these funding opportunities are highlighted below.
Affordable Housing
The Federal Government will continue to work with the private sector and non-profits to make housing more affordable. Budget 2023 announces the government’s intention to support the reallocation of funding from the National Housing Co-Investment Fund’s repair stream to its new construction stream, as needed, to boost the construction of new affordable homes.
Budget 2023 also proposes to commit an additional $4 billion, over seven years, starting in 2024-25, to implement an Urban, Rural, and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy co-developed with Indigenous partners.
Combatting the Opioid Crisis
Budget 2023 proposes $144 million over five years, starting in 2023-24, for Health Canada’s Substance Use and Addictions Program to fund community-based supports, including safer supply, supervised consumption sites, and other evidence-based health interventions.
Supporting Official Languages
$117 million in additional funding is budgeted for official language minority communities, including increased support for the non-profit organizations that serve these communities.
Tourism Sector
Budget 2023 proposes to provide $108 million over 3 years to support communities, small businesses, and non-profit organizations in developing local projects and events.
Inclusion of Canadians with Disabilities
$10 million is budgeted to help address the unique needs and ongoing barriers faced by persons with disabilities by investing in capacity building and the community-level work of Canada’s disability organizations.
Arts and Heritage
$14 million is budgeted for the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program which supports opportunities for local artists, artisans, and heritage performers through festivals, events, and projects.
Assistance for Ukraine
Budget 2023 announces that $84.8 million in 2023-24 will be allocated by Global Affairs Canada to provide support to Ukraine for humanitarian assistance, mental health support, demining, agriculture, and other priority areas.