More non-profits and organizations must register as lobbyists under stricter federal rules
Why It Matters
Charities and non-profits interact with government on many levels, including requesting funding, being contracted to deliver essential services, and advocating for policy reform. While not all of these activities are classed as lobbying, the upcoming changes to reporting requirements will likely mean that many organizations will have to track and report their interactions with the federal government.
Canada’s AI Task Force needs a Civil Society and Communities council, advocates say
Why It Matters
Minister Solomon’s rapid “national sprint” of public consultations has drawn criticism from academics and the social purpose sector alike. The new campaign provides practical and tangible steps that the Minister and the Task Force can take to ensure that Canada’s approach to AI remains equitable, accessible and accountable.
Tax exemptions or direct funding? Grassroots data analysis finds differences in non-profit and industry budget submissions
Why It Matters
More than 900 submissions have been made to the federal government’s pre-budget consultations. This year, the non-profit sector has continued its advocacy for affordable housing, social assistance, and a robust arts sector. However, there are competing forces at bay, with companies and other organizations often advocating for policy change, reform and funding that is directly in opposition to the sector's work.
More grants, less admin: New non-profit coalition to advocate for government funding reform
Why It Matters
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.
Federal review confirms over-representation of Muslim charities in CRA anti-terrorism audits
Why It Matters
The Canadian Revenue Agency’s Review and Analysis Division is “responsible for delivering the Agency’s mandate under the Anti-Terrorism Act to prevent the abuse of registered charities for the financing of terrorism.” However, in the past few years, Muslim charities have raised concerns about the Division’s audits and revocations by the CRA.