Trans Canada Trail Introduces Trail Catalyst Fund

Comprehensive funding initiative offers trail groups across Canada a year-round application for numerous support programs

Trans Canada Trail is excited to introduce the Trail Catalyst Fund, a year-round comprehensive funding initiative designed to enhance the quality, connectivity and sustainability of Canada’s nationwide trail system.  

This Fund serves as single gateway for local groups and organizations across the country to apply for grants from numerous funding streams offered by Trans Canada Trail. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis to ensure trail operators can access funding when their projects are ready, no matter what time of year it is.   

“Maintaining, developing and enhancing 29,000 kilometres of trail is only possible thanks to a nationwide collaborative effort,” says Stacey Dakin, Chief Program Officer at Trans Canada Trail. “We are fortunate to work with so many incredible partners across the country and the Trail Catalyst Fund will provide a more streamlined way for them to access the supports they need. Working together, we can all ensure that Canada’s trails remain strong, safe and accessible for today and future generations.”  

Groups or organizations that own or manage a section of the Trans Canada Trail are eligible for the Trail Catalyst Fund. The Fund may be extended to organizations within the broader trail sector for projects related to tree planting, youth wage subsidy, and trail work in Indigenous communities. 

The Trail Catalyst Fund provides funding for projects including:  

• Environmental restoration, tree planting and other sustainability initiatives 

• Rapid-response repairs following natural disasters 

• Partnerships with Indigenous communities 

• Major and minor repairs and safety upgrades  

• Navigation, safety and educational signage 

• Training and professional development 

• Seasonal cleanup and small-scale maintenance 

• Accessibility and inclusion initiatives 

Applications for the Trail Catalyst Fund are open year-round and will be reviewed and responded to quarterly. The next application deadline is December 31, 2025.  

For full details and to submit an application, visit tctrail.ca/funding/.