Call for Stream 2: New Builds/Signature New Builds (Canada)

Deadline: 22-Dec-2026

The Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF) Stream 2 provides capital funding for major new or signature sport and recreation infrastructure projects across Ontario. Eligible municipalities, Indigenous communities and organizations, non-profit organizations, and for-profit organizations can receive up to $10 million per project, with higher investments potentially available for qualifying Signature New Builds.

About the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund Stream 2

CSRIF Stream 2 is designed to support significant sport and recreation infrastructure projects that respond to demonstrated community needs and create long-term economic and social benefits. Unlike Stream 1, which focuses on repairing and rehabilitating existing facilities, Stream 2 supports major new infrastructure and substantial transformation or expansion projects.

The program can support projects that:

Replace aging or inadequate sport and recreation facilities. Transform or significantly expand existing infrastructure. Create new facilities that do not currently exist in the province or region. Address significant local or regional infrastructure gaps. Attract investment and stimulate economic activity. Provide facilities capable of hosting major sporting events. What Is a Signature New Build? A Signature New Build is a major infrastructure project that demonstrates exceptional potential through innovative design, significant community benefits, or substantial economic impact. Projects seeking investment above the standard $10 million maximum may receive special consideration where they demonstrate a strong case for additional provincial investment. Applicants requesting more than $10 million must provide the required special consideration documentation as part of their application. Funding Available CSRIF Stream 2 provides funding of up to $10 million per project. The maximum provincial contribution depends on the applicant type: Indigenous communities and Indigenous not-for-profit organizations: up to 90% of eligible costs. Municipalities, local services boards, and not-for-profit organizations: up to 50% of eligible costs.

For-profit organizations: up to 25% of eligible costs.

Applicants must finance all eligible project costs that are not covered by the provincial contribution. Higher investments may be considered for qualifying Signature New Builds. Eligible Project Costs Funding can support a range of costs directly associated with delivering an eligible infrastructure project. Applicants should ensure that proposed expenditures are directly connected to the approved project and meet the program’s eligibility requirements. Who Is Eligible? CSRIF Stream 2 is open to several categories of applicants, including: Ontario municipalities. Indigenous communities. Indigenous organizations. Local service boards. Not-for-profit organizations. For-profit organizations. For-profit applicants must operate or manage spaces that provide sport or recreation programming. Applicants should also demonstrate that they have the legal authority, ownership interest, or appropriate lease arrangements necessary to undertake and manage the proposed infrastructure project. What Types of Projects Are Prioritized? Stream 2 is intended for projects with substantial community impact rather than routine improvements. Strong projects may include proposals that: Address a clearly demonstrated infrastructure shortage. Replace facilities that are aging or no longer suitable. Projects with strong evidence of local demand and measurable economic benefits can demonstrate stronger alignment with the objectives of the program. Project Completion Requirements Approved projects must be completed within 36 months of approval. All projects must also be completed no later than March 31, 2030. Applicants should therefore develop a realistic project schedule covering planning, approvals, construction, procurement, installation, and completion. Restrictions on Other Ontario Funding Applicants cannot use other Ontario provincial funding for the same project. The recipient is responsible for covering all remaining project expenses that are not funded through CSRIF Stream 2. Applicants should therefore have a clear financing strategy and demonstrate their ability to meet their share of project costs. Required Application Documents Applications are submitted through Transfer Payment Ontario (TPON). Applicants must provide documentation relevant to their organizational and project circumstances, including: Completed application form. Audited financial statements, except for municipalities. Proof of ownership or qualifying lease. Proof of legal status. Indigenous community resolution for applicable on-reserve projects. Corporate structure documentation for for-profit organizations.

Partnership agreements where applicable

Special consideration form for funding requests above $10 million. Applicants are also encouraged to provide optional supporting materials such as: Project plans. Architectural or design documents. Evidence of financial resources. Letters of support. Other documentation demonstrating project readiness and community need. How to Apply

Step 1: Confirm applicant eligibility

Determine whether your municipality, Indigenous organization, local service board, non-profit, or for-profit organization meets the Stream 2 eligibility requirements.

Step 2: Identify the infrastructure need

Clearly define the community or regional problem that the proposed infrastructure will address. Explain whether the project will replace an aging facility, expand existing infrastructure, or create a new type of sport or recreation facility.

Step 3: Develop the project concept

Prepare a clear description of the proposed infrastructure, including its intended users, programming, location, capacity, and expected benefits.

Step 4: Prepare the financial plan

Calculate total project costs and determine the amount of CSRIF funding r