Federal funding boost aims to strengthen national sport system and community participation
OTTAWA — A major new federal investment in sport is being welcomed by Canada’s high-performance sport community, with Own the Podium calling the funding a transformative step toward rebuilding and modernizing the country’s sport system.
The Government of Canada announced a $775 million investment over five years, alongside $118 million in ongoing annual funding starting in 2026–27, as part of its Spring Economic Update. The funding is intended to support sport at all levels, from grassroots participation to elite international competition.
According to Own the Podium, the investment will provide national sport organizations with critical resources to expand programming, improve safety and inclusivity, and remove barriers that limit participation across different age groups and communities.
Investment targets long-term system improvements
The funding is expected to address longstanding gaps in Canada’s sport infrastructure by helping organizations build more accessible and sustainable programs. Officials say the goal is to create a system that encourages lifelong participation while strengthening pathways for athlete development.
“The Government of Canada made it clear today they share Own the Podium’s belief that sport matters in this country. This generous landmark investment is an investment in a stronger and safer sport system and in a healthier population of Canadians of all ages,” said Anne Merklinger, chief executive officer, Own the Podium. “Prime Minister Mark Carney, Adam van Koeverden (Secretary of State, Sport), and the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne (Minister of Finance and National Revenue) reinforced the Government’s commitment to Canadians that sport is an important community asset and unifier in this country that needs to be supported at all levels.”
The announcement underscores Ottawa’s broader policy focus on health, community engagement, and international competitiveness. By targeting both grassroots and high-performance sport, the funding aims to create a more integrated and aligned system nationwide.
Benefits expected from grassroots to elite competition
Industry stakeholders say the financial commitment will have both immediate and long-term impacts. Investments in community-level sport are expected to increase youth participation, while funding for high-performance programs will support athletes preparing for global competitions such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The initiative also includes funding to support Canada’s ability to host international sporting events. Such events are seen as economic drivers that can stimulate tourism, create jobs, and leave behind upgraded facilities for local communities.
Own the Podium noted that enhanced infrastructure and event-hosting capabilities will contribute to stronger regional sport ecosystems, benefiting athletes and communities alike.
“Today’s investment will for sure play a vital role in ensuring Canada’s athletes are fully prepared to achieve their performance goals on the international stage, but the benefits extend far beyond Olympic and Paralympic athletes winning more medals for Canada,” added Merklinger. “Sport develops the values and characteristics that help make Canadians better on and off the field of play, leading to a healthier nation. The Government of Canada has made the communities we play, train and live in better today.”
Strengthening Canada’s global competitiveness
From a business and economic perspective, the funding is also expected to enhance Canada’s position in the global sport economy. Improved athlete performance, upgraded facilities, and increased event hosting can generate broader economic activity while boosting the country’s international profile.
Analysts note that sustained investment in sport often yields returns beyond medals, including improved public health outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and stronger community cohesion.
For national sport organizations, the funding provides greater financial certainty, allowing for longer-term planning and program development. This stability is seen as critical for maintaining competitive standards and ensuring athlete well-being.
About Own the Podium
Own the Podium is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting Canadian Olympic and Paralympic athletes in achieving podium success. Its mandate focuses on enabling athletes to reach peak performance while maintaining high standards of physical and psychological safety.
The organization receives its primary funding from the Government of Canada, with additional contributions from partners including the Canadian Olympic Committee, the Canadian Paralympic Committee, and private sector stakeholders.
As Canada prepares for future international competitions, stakeholders say the latest federal investment marks a significant step toward building a more resilient, inclusive, and high-performing sport system that delivers benefits both on and off the field.