Major sport events drive economic growth, create jobs, support businesses and expand the capacity of Alberta’s sport sector. Supporting world-class sport events is about more than just creating successful tournaments and vibrant communities: it’s about building a legacy of sport infrastructure and volunteerism, providing opportunities for Alberta athletes and driving economic growth and tourism.
“Since January 2024, Alberta’s government has announced support for more than 20 major national and international sport events across the province, resulting in $100 million in economic benefit – an incredible return on investment. I’m proud we’re building on Alberta’s reputation as a premier sport destination and host of world-class sport events.”
The program provides funding of up to $250,000 per event to be used towards the costs associated with hosting national and international competitions, including facility rentals, venue enhancements, promotional and marketing campaigns, broadcasting and more. Alberta’s government provided more than $2.5 million in funding for major sport events in 2023.
The Major Sport Event grant program is open for the next round of applications. All proposals will be assessed based on criteria including the advancement of sport and tourism in Alberta, the national and international significance of the event, the economic impact of the event and value for taxpayer money.
The deadline for applications is July 15. Details on eligibility and the application process are available online.
Quick facts
- The Major Sport Event grant program has two intake periods per year (spring and fall), to provide event organizers the opportunity to apply at an appropriate time in planning for their sporting event.
- In 2024, MSE funding supported national and international sporting events in Alberta, including:
- FIS Ski Cross World Cup – Kananaskis – Jan. 18-21
- FIS Cross-Country World Cup – Canmore – Feb. 9-13
- FIS Snowboard Half Pipe World Cup – Calgary – Feb. 9-10
- ISU World Speed Skating Championships – Calgary – Feb. 15-18
- Scotties Tournament of Hearts – Calgary – Feb. 16-25
- BMW International Biathlon Union World Cup Final – Canmore – March 14-17
- 2024 Boxing Canada Cup – Calgary – March 20-24
- 2024 Canadian Junior and Senior Squash Championships – Calgary – April 27-May 5
- 2024 Canada Cup of Diving – Calgary – May 2-5
- 2024 Volleyball Canada Youth National Championships & Para Super 6 Event – Edmonton – May 15-26
- 2024 Canmore Canada Cup and Alberta Cup – Canmore – June 12-15
- World Athletics Silver Continental Tour - Edmonton Athletics Invitational – Edmonton –June 13