Overview
This component of the Local Government Fiscal Framework (LGFF) supports local governments by funding capacity building activities, municipal services and planning activities. In addition, local governments have the flexibility to use their operating funding to assist non-profit organizations to carry out eligible activities.
LGFF Operating portal launch: Important update on 2024 SFE submissions
The portal for the 2024 LGFF Operating program Statement of Funding and Expenditures (SFE) submissions is currently under development. It is expected that the portal will be accessible for SFE submissions by summer 2025. Once the launch date is confirmed, chief administrative officers and administrators will be notified.
Funding
Operating funding is $60 million annually. To provide stability, Budget 2025 allocation amounts to local governments remain fixed at the same level as operating funding amounts allocated under Budget 2024.
LGFF Operating allocation amounts:
View 2025 allocations by local government.
Eligibility
All local governments other than the cities of Calgary and Edmonton are eligible for operating funding. This includes municipalities, Metis Settlements and the Townsite of Redwood Meadows.
Eligible operating activities include:
- capacity building activities that improve efficiency or effectiveness
- municipal services
- planning activities
- assistance to non-profit organizations
Local governments must spend their annual LGFF Operating allocation in the year it was allocated. Any unspent LGFF Operating funds cannot be carried forward to the next calendar year. Local governments that have not expended their LGFF Operating allocation, including credit items, on/before December 31 (March 31 for Metis Settlements) will be required to return those funds to the Government of Alberta.
How to apply
Applications are not required to receive LGFF Operating funding.
Payment of allocations is expected to commence by summer 2025. Local governments must meet reporting requirements for the 2024 LGFF Operating allocation. If a local government has unspent 2023 Municipal Sustainability Initiative operating funding, they must also submit their final Municipal Sustainability Initiative reporting to receive their 2025 LGFF Operating allocation.
Guidelines and resources
Contact
Connect with the LGFF program:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 780-422-7125
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: ma.lgffoperating@gov.ab.ca