Following the Rogers acquisition of Shaw Communications, the combined charitable foundation continues to invest in communities across western Canada where Shaw historically operated. The Shaw Charity Classic and related foundation programs have distributed tens of millions of dollars to youth-focused charities in Alberta, and these funding streams remain available to eligible organizations.
For Alberta nonprofits working with youth in sport, arts, education, or community development, the Rogers/Shaw charitable programs represent meaningful funding opportunities — particularly in Calgary and other western Canadian communities.
Funding Focus Areas
The foundation prioritizes programs that support youth under 18 in:
- Sport and physical activity — Programs that get kids active, particularly those targeting underserved youth
- Arts and culture — Creative programming that develops youth skills and confidence
- Education and skills development — After-school programs, mentoring, and academic support
- Health and wellness — Youth mental health, nutrition, and wellness programs
Grants typically range from $5,000 to $50,000 for community-level programs. The Shaw Charity Classic golf tournament has historically been the largest single source, with proceeds distributed to selected youth charities in Calgary.
The Shaw Charity Classic has raised over $100 million for youth charities in Calgary since its inception, making it one of the most significant single sources of youth funding in the city.
Eligibility
- Must be a registered Canadian charity (CRA charitable status required)
- Must serve youth under 18
- Must operate in western Canada, with preference for Alberta communities
- Must demonstrate measurable impact on youth outcomes
Application Strategy
Lead with youth outcomes. The foundation cares about what changes for young people, not just what activities you provide. Frame your application around specific youth outcomes: improved physical literacy, increased confidence, better school attendance, reduced social isolation.
Show reach and accessibility. Programs that serve a large number of youth, particularly those from low-income families or underrepresented communities, align well with the foundation's equity commitments.
Demonstrate sustainability. Like all corporate funders, the Rogers/Shaw foundation wants to invest in programs that will continue and grow, not one-time events that disappear.
Include visual documentation. Corporate funders appreciate seeing the impact of their investments. Include photos, videos, or links to media coverage of your programs if available.
Alpine Grants helps youth-serving organizations access corporate funding alongside government grants. Book a 10-minute discovery call to explore your organization's corporate funding potential.