'I ❤️ SG' Conversation Series Topic #12- Funding Programs in the City
- Erin Stevenson
- Aug 27
- 3 min read
Spruce Grove Councillor Erin Stevenson is proud to launch her campaign for a third term under the banner “I ❤️ SG”—a positive, community-focused message reflecting her deep commitment to the people, places, and possibilities that make Spruce Grove special.
Funding Programs that Strengthen Spruce Grove
Strong communities are built on partnerships—between residents, local organizations, businesses, and government. In Spruce Grove, funding programs have become an important way for the City to empower groups that make our community vibrant and inclusive. As part of her “I 💙 SG” campaign for a third term, Councillor Erin Stevenson is highlighting how these funding tools are already making a difference, and how they could grow in the future.
Watch the video:
LOVE: Grants that Build Community
In the past term, Spruce Grove has introduced and expanded several funding opportunities for residents and organizations. A key milestone was the launch of the Civic Grant Program, which supports organizations delivering programs, services, projects, and events that foster a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible community.
Community grants have also been distributed to organizations across the city, helping them deliver programming in areas like recreation, culture, and heritage. These grants are distinct from the City’s smaller micro grants, and include support for groups like the Agricultural Society, which used funding to revive the beloved Agra Fair. Groups applying for these grants present to Council, where their funding requests are considered as part of the City’s corporate planning process.
In addition, the City Centre Storefront Improvement Program has provided funding to commercial property and business owners to make exterior upgrades. This program strengthens local businesses while also revitalizing downtown Spruce Grove, creating a more welcoming and attractive city centre. “These programs are about more than dollars,” Stevenson says. “They’re about investing in people and ideas that bring life to our community.”
IMPROVE: Making Micro Grants More Accessible
Spruce Grove recently launched a micro grant program, designed to provide smaller-scale funding to residents and organizations with community-focused ideas. While still new, Stevenson believes it’s important to evaluate how well the program is working. “Are people aware the program exists? Is the process simple to understand? Do groups feel supported when they apply?” she asks.
She also sees potential in exploring partnership or sponsorship opportunities. For example, local businesses could sponsor grants in specific categories, with the City managing the program. This could help build bridges between the business community and non-profits that might not otherwise connect.
Funding categories already touch on diverse areas:
Social
Sport and Recreation
Arts, Culture, and Heritage
Economic
Environmental
Multicultural
“Each category represents a part of who we are as a city,” Stevenson notes. “The question is—how do we help them grow?”
NEXT: Supporting Diversity and Growth
Looking forward, Stevenson envisions an even more robust grant system that captures the full range of community needs.
“By funding a broad range of organizations, we’re supporting rich and diverse experiences here in Spruce Grove,” she says. “But we should ask ourselves—are there funding opportunities we’re missing?” She encourages residents and groups to share their experiences. “If you’ve applied for a grant and didn’t qualify, tell us why. If you’ve seen programs in other cities that work well, let us know. That feedback can shape what comes next.”
For Stevenson, the goal is clear: “Grants are one way we make Spruce Grove not just a place to live, but a place to belong.”
Share your thoughts with Erin and connect with her on social media and don't forget to use the hashtag #IHeartSG. Show Erin support in her re-election campaign by requesting a lawn sign (request form is at the bottom of every webpage).
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