The Canada Water Agency has launched a new call for applications for three funding initiatives aimed at protecting and sustaining Canada’s freshwater resources. Announced by the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, these initiatives are designed to support partner-led projects that focus on environmental restoration, conservation, and sustainability.
The funding programs available include:
- EcoAction Stream 2: Freshwater Sustainability and Innovation across Canada
- The Mackenzie River Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative
- The Fraser River Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative
Eligible applicants, such as Indigenous governments and communities, local governments, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, conservation groups, and small businesses, are encouraged to submit proposals that will improve water quality, foster innovation, support community-based monitoring, and incorporate Indigenous knowledge into decision-making processes.
“Partner-led projects are crucial in safeguarding one of our most precious resources—fresh water— for future generations. I encourage all eligible groups to apply and contribute innovative solutions for the protection of the Mackenzie and Fraser Rivers. We are excited to support projects that will have a positive impact on both our fresh water resources and the communities that benefit from them.” – The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
The submission deadlines are April 10, 2025, for EcoAction Stream 2 and the Fraser River Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative, and May 8, 2025, for the Mackenzie River Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative. Additionally, applications for EcoAction Stream 1: Community-led Freshwater Action remain open until March 25, 2025.
The Mackenzie River, Canada’s largest river basin, spans nearly 1.8 million square kilometers, while the Fraser River, the country’s fourth largest by volume, has a drainage basin of 220,000 square kilometers. The Government of Canada is investing $650 million over 10 years in the Freshwater Action Plan to strengthen the protection and restoration of nationally significant bodies of fresh water.
