CleanBC Communities Fund: How to Apply (Eligible Projects + Costs)

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CleanBC Communities Fund: How to Apply (Eligible Projects + Costs)

Many B.C. communities want to reduce emissions but face high costs for major infrastructure upgrades. The CleanBC Communities Fund helps by supporting clean energy and climate-focused projects that benefit the public. This fund is part of the federal–provincial Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program and backs projects that create measurable greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions across British Columbia.


What Is the CleanBC Communities Fund?

The CleanBC Communities Fund (CBCF) offers non-repayable infrastructure grants for projects that cut emissions and improve clean energy access in B.C. communities.

Projects must involve building or upgrading tangible public infrastructure and align with CleanBC climate goals. Funding is cost-shared between governments and applicants, depending on the applicant type and project stream.

Key outcomes supported by the fund:

  • Better management of renewable energy
  • Increased access to clean energy transportation
  • Improved energy efficiency in buildings
  • Generation of clean energy

Eligible Projects and Costs

To qualify, projects must involve physical infrastructure and meet at least one of the program’s climate outcomes.

Eligible Project Types

  • Clean energy generation
    • Solar, wind, biomass, or district energy systems
  • Building energy retrofits
    • HVAC upgrades, insulation, heat pumps, energy-efficient lighting
  • Clean transportation infrastructure
    • Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations
    • Hydrogen or alternative fuel infrastructure
  • Renewable energy management
    • Energy storage systems
    • Grid modernization or load management technologies

Projects must be for public use or benefit, even when led by a private organization.

Eligible Costs

  • Construction and installation costs
  • Equipment and materials
  • Engineering, design, and feasibility studies
  • Project management directly related to construction
  • Indigenous consultation costs (when required)

Ineligible Costs

  • General operating expenses
  • Routine maintenance
  • Land purchase
  • Costs incurred before project approval
  • Stand-alone research with no infrastructure component

For more details, see What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans.


Who Can Apply and How Much Funding Is Available?

The CleanBC Communities Fund welcomes applications from a range of organizations, as long as the project delivers public benefit in B.C.

Eligible applicants:

  • Local governments (municipalities and regional districts)
  • Indigenous governments and organizations
  • Not-for-profit organizations
  • For-profit organizations (if projects offer clear public benefit)

All applicants must operate in British Columbia and propose projects that result in measurable GHG reductions.

Funding Amounts and Cost-Sharing

There is no fixed maximum grant amount. Funding depends on:

  • Project size and scope
  • Applicant type
  • Cost-sharing ratios under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program

Most projects involve shared funding between federal, provincial, and applicant contributions. Exact percentages are confirmed during the intake and agreement stage.

All approved projects must be completed by March 31, 2033.


How to Apply for the CleanBC Communities Fund

Application intakes open at certain times and are managed by the Province of British Columbia.

Typical application steps:

  1. Confirm your project aligns with CleanBC outcomes
  2. Prepare GHG reduction calculations
  3. Develop a detailed project budget and timeline
  4. Submit your proposal through the provincial intake portal
  5. Respond to clarification requests during review

Before applying, it’s helpful to use tools such as an eligibility matcher to quickly check if your organization type and project fit CleanBC Communities Fund requirements. GrantHub tracks active infrastructure and clean energy grant programs across Canada, making it easier to compare your options over time.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Not quantifying GHG reductions
    Applications must clearly show how emissions will be reduced and how those reductions will be measured.

  2. Proposing non-infrastructure projects
    Policy work, education-only programs, or research without construction are not eligible.

  3. Assuming for-profit projects are excluded
    For-profit organizations can apply if the project delivers public benefit.

  4. Underestimating timelines
    Large infrastructure projects need realistic schedules that fit within the program’s completion deadline.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is the CleanBC Communities Fund repayable?

No. Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant for approved infrastructure projects.

Can private businesses apply?

Yes. For-profit organizations may apply when the project serves a clear public benefit, such as shared clean energy infrastructure.

What does “measurable GHG reductions” mean?

You must estimate and report expected emissions reductions using accepted calculation methods. These reductions are reviewed as part of the assessment process.

Are Indigenous-led projects eligible?

Yes. Indigenous governments and organizations are eligible applicants under the program.

When must projects be completed?

All funded projects must be completed by March 31, 2033.


Next Steps

The CleanBC Communities Fund can help cover major infrastructure costs for B.C. communities and organizations working on clean energy and climate projects. If you want to compare grants or check program fit, GrantHub offers up-to-date listings for infrastructure and clean energy funding in B.C. and across Canada.

You may also want to explore related guides such as How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules and What expenses are eligible under regional economic development grants.


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