CRA guidance on non-qualified donees a ‘good first draft’ but leaders are pushing for several big changes before government finalizes policy

“It feels like a once in a lifetime opportunity to fix this,” says Jehad Aliweiwi, executive director of the Laidlaw Foundation.

Why It Matters

For more than a decade, non-profits and grassroots groups have been stymied by CRA policy that has prevented them from getting grants from foundations. After a sustained advocacy campaign, that’s on the cusp of changing.


Peace Tower in Ottawa, ON (Photo: Pixbay)

This independent journalism ​​is made possible by the Future of Good editorial fellowship covering the social impact world’s rapidly changing funding models, supported by Future of Good, Community Foundations of Canada, and United Way Centraide Canada. See our editorial ethics and standards here.

Non-profits and grassroots groups may soon find it a heck of a lot easier to access funding from foundations and charities. 

In June, following a sustained advocacy campaign, the federal government made a change to charity law that opened the door for foundations and charities to grant to non-profits and grassroots groups. 

Charity advocates

Join a community of 2000+ impact-oriented professionals like you. Get full access to this story and all Future of Good content, including tickets to our digital events and networking, with a membership.