Many BC communities are still working to rebuild their local economies after major disruptions. The BC Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP) helps by funding infrastructure projects that support long-term economic recovery. If your organization is planning a capital project in British Columbia, it is important to understand how to apply and check if you qualify. Doing so can save you time and improve your chances of approval.
The Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program is a provincial funding program run by the Government of British Columbia. It supports infrastructure and capital projects that help strengthen local economies, create jobs, and assist communities in recovering from economic shocks.
The program focuses on projects that are community-led and deliver clear economic benefits, especially in rural, remote, or hard-hit regions of BC.
CERIP is not a business grant in the usual sense. This means that the funding does not go directly to for-profit businesses. Instead, it is usually given to local governments and non-profit organizations. However, the infrastructure that is built can still benefit local businesses, workers, and industries by improving community resources and economic activity.
Eligibility depends on the specific intake, but CERIP generally supports public and community-based applicants instead of private companies.
Typical eligible applicants include:
For-profit businesses usually cannot apply directly. However, businesses may still benefit if their project is part of a larger community-led initiative. Examples include:
Always check the current intake guidelines to confirm eligibility.
CERIP supports infrastructure projects that contribute to economic recovery. It does not cover operating costs or short-term programming.
Common project types include:
Projects must show a clear connection between the infrastructure and positive economic outcomes. This could include more jobs, attracting new businesses, or making the region more competitive.
CERIP funding amounts change depending on the intake and project size. The province does not set a single maximum for all applicants.
Key points:
Because amounts and cost-sharing rules can change, always check the intake-specific guidelines before you plan your project.
Each intake may be a little different, but the general process usually follows these steps:
Check if the program is open
CERIP intakes open at certain times. Some streams are only available for a limited period.
Read the intake guidelines closely
Each intake has its own rules for who can apply, what projects are eligible, what cost-sharing is needed, and how applications are judged.
Prepare your project proposal
You will need to include:
Apply through the provincial portal
Late or incomplete applications are usually not considered.
Wait for assessment and approval
Applications are reviewed for economic impact, readiness, regional need, and how well they fit with provincial priorities.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check if CERIP or other BC infrastructure programs fit your organization and project.
In many cases, yes, but there are limits.
CERIP projects often use:
However:
If you do not follow the stacking rules, your approval could be delayed or your funding reduced.
Applying as a private business without an eligible partner
CERIP is focused on the community. Businesses should work with eligible organizations instead of applying alone.
Weak explanation of economic impact
You must clearly show how your project will help the local economy, not just build infrastructure.
Unrealistic project timelines
Projects should be ready to start soon. Long delays or missing approvals can hurt your application.
Missing cost-sharing details
Applications without confirmed or realistic matching funds are often rejected.
Q: Is the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program currently open?
Intake status changes over time. Some streams are only open for certain periods. Always check the official BC government program page for current deadlines.
Q: Is CERIP funding repayable?
No. CERIP funding is usually non-repayable. The way it is taxed depends on your organization’s structure and accounting.
Q: Can small communities apply?
Yes. Rural and smaller communities are often a good fit, especially for projects that address local economic problems.
Q: Can CERIP fund planning or feasibility studies?
The program focuses on capital infrastructure. Planning-only projects are usually not eligible unless specifically allowed in an intake.
Q: Can Indigenous organizations apply?
Yes. Indigenous governments and organizations are often eligible for CERIP funding.
The BC Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program can provide important funding if your project is community-led and focused on economic recovery. Start by confirming your eligibility and gathering strong evidence of long-term impact.
GrantHub tracks active infrastructure and community grant programs across Canada — including BC-specific opportunities — so you can find programs that fit your organization, location, and project goals.
See also:
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.