Charities and non-profits are often at the whim of economic cycles. When there is a downturn, donations and corporate giving shrink too. In these times, consistent government funding could support and sustain non-profits, but some are concerned the sector could fall by the wayside again.
According to research by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, 76 per cent of Canada’s business owners plan to exit their businesses in the next decade. The EOT legislation has been designed to ease those businesses' succession planning and spread the benefits of wealth. However, advocates warn that there might be a gaping hole in the legislation that the Carney government must urgently address in the Fall Budget.
In the first comprehensive analysis of granting through the post-COVID Community Services Recovery Fund, data shows that most funding allowed non-profits to adapt or pivot their programs. The three intermediary funders were also able to support grantmaking to non-qualified donees, many of whom were applying to a fund of this sort for the first time.
Canada’s housing crisis has hit those searching for affordable apartments hardest. Community land trusts could help keep rents reasonable.
Community bonds allow everyday people to invest in the future of local social infrastructure. Investors can choose to invest a set amount in a bond, which accrues interest that can be paid out annually or at the end of the bond term.
Homelessness is a growing issue across Canada, and increasing economic upheaval may make the situation worse. Greater investment in supportive housing could help.
