B.C. gaming grants send more than $53 million to 2,500 non-profits
Parent advisory councils, youth sport, environmental groups and public safety organizations shared the 2025-26 Community Gaming Grants.
More than 2,500 non-profit organizations in British Columbia received over $53 million through Community Gaming Grants in 2025-26. The Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport released the full recipient lists on February 5.
The figures cover the period from April 1, 2025, to February 1, 2026, Island Social Trends reported. The program distributes about $140 million a year from commercial gambling revenue earned through the BC Lottery Corporation.
Who received funding
Parent advisory councils and district parent advisory councils made up the largest group by number. Nearly 1,400 of them shared more than $12 million to support student learning and school communities. Youth and amateur sport received the largest share of money. Nearly 850 organizations received more than $28 million.
More than 150 environmental groups received over $5 million for work on natural spaces and sustainable practices. More than 140 public safety organizations received nearly $7 million for emergency response and community safety.
Anne Kang, the minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport, said the investments "strengthen our communities." She pointed to safety, sports participation, environmental protection and school experiences as areas that benefit.
Vancouver Island totals
On Vancouver Island, Victoria groups received the most, at $6,643,110, though some of those recipients serve the wider Greater Victoria region. Nanaimo organizations received $2,353,690, Courtenay $1,013,610 and Campbell River $921,180.
Groups in Duncan received $643,720 and Sooke $577,540. In the Saanich Peninsula, Sidney organizations received $374,290 and North Saanich groups $135,810. Ladysmith groups received $171,120 and Chemainus $147,300. Further up the island, Qualicum Beach received $248,820, Parksville $246,683 and Comox $219,320. Smaller island communities also shared in the program, including Salt Spring Island at $284,240, Gabriola Island at $147,460 Pender Island at $114,800, Hornby Island at $58,300 and Mayne Island at $32,000.
Applications for the next round of grants were open at the time of the announcement.