Land Acquisition

Through Land Acquisition grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, MEC supports organizations dedicated to conserving ecologically and/or recreationally significant landscapes both near our cities and farther into the wilderness.

MEC recognizes that Canadians rely on the ecological benefits offered by these places, and draw inspiration from the knowledge that they exist intact. They also value accessibility to the places where adventures are born. We believe that these places are vital to our shared legacy as active Canadians, and help us all keep space for adventure.

Income from the MEC Endowment Fund For The Environment helps to fund this program.

Evaluation Criteria

Your organization:

• Has a successful track record in land acquisition

Your project:

• Will acquire land that is important for (1) ecological significance and/or (2) outdoor activity use. Outdoor activities must focus on one or more of the following self-propelled activities MEC supports: cycling, hiking, trail-running, outdoor climbing, paddling, cross-country/backcountry skiing, and snowshoeing
• Shows the urgency of the acquisition is evident
• Has a strategy in place for public engagement and/or education about the protection effort
• Has demonstrated broad-based community or stakeholder support
• Has investigated other sources of funding

How to Apply

MEC conducts two grant cycles annually. Please complete our online application to request a Land Acquisition grant through the MEC Community Contributions program.

Spring Cycle

Application deadline: March 10 (midnight Pacific Time)
Applicants notified: mid-May

Fall Cycle

Application deadline: September 10 (midnight Pacific Time)
Applicants notified: mid-November

MEC Endowment Fund for the Environment

Founded in 1993, MEC Endowment Fund for the Environment helps fund our Land Acquisition grant program. Every year, MEC members help to build this legacy fund by making individual donations.

To make a tax deductible donation, please mail your cheque to:

MEC Endowment Fund for the Environment
1200, 555 W. Hastings St.
Box 12132 Harbour Centre
Vancouver, BC V6B 4N6