Sport and recreation facilities promote active living and well-being in Alberta communities. From rinks and courts to multi-use community spaces, these facilities bring people together and promote active, healthy lifestyles for all ages. These investments help ensure that Albertans across the province have access to new and revitalized spaces to stay active and engaged.

Left to right: Ivan Quintero (IQ Tennis and Pickleball Centre), Stuart Houston (Parkland Picklehads Pickleball Club), Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport, Alex Domnich, Ilan Domnich (IQ Tennis and Pickleball Centre)

"I am proud to support projects that help Albertans live healthier and more active lives. In many places, recreation centres serve as hubs for the community. With the Active Communities Initiative funding, more Albertans can enjoy sports and connect with others close to home."

Andrew Boitchenko, Minister of Tourism and Sport

The Active Communities Initiative is Alberta's first grant program solely dedicated to funding sport and recreation infrastructure. Each project reflects the unique needs of its community and together, they are projected to serve up to a million Albertans. The expansion and creation of these facilities will strengthen local economies as they stimulate over $60 million in estimated economic activity and create short-term and long-term employment opportunities across the province.  

"Valley Ski Hill is thankful to receive this funding to make much-needed upgrades to our ski lodge and snowmaking equipment. It will ensure the safe and efficient operation of our facility for generations to come, enabling us to provide an affordable winter sport and recreation opportunity for families and youth in our rural communities."

Carol Macrae, secretary, Valley Ski Club Castor Association

The 2025 funding will go towards building, renewing and maintaining sport and recreation opportunities, from arena renovations in Lomond to pickleball courts in Okotoks and curling rinks in Rockyford. This grant program helps meet the growing demand for sport and recreation infrastructure in Alberta.

"This grant funding is an incredible step forward for the Lubicon community. The new indoor running track will provide a safe, year-round space for sports programs for youth, exercise opportunities for Elders and young moms with strollers, and training for track and field. It will also serve as a warm-up and fitness space supporting a wide range of community sports and wellness activities, strengthening health and connection across generations."

Chief Billy Joe Laboucan, Lubicon Lake Band #453

Active Communities Initiative funding is open to eligible community groups, non-profit organizations and societies, including First Nations and Metis Settlements, that wish to build or enhance active spaces to support sport and recreational opportunities for their communities. Applications for the 2026 Active Communities Initiative will open in the spring of 2026.

Quick facts

Projects supported through this round of Active Communities Initiative funding:

• Caroline & District Athletic & Agricultural Society, arena renewal, Caroline
• Chappelle Gardens Residents Association, community rink upgrades, Edmonton
• Chestermere Community Association, arena renewal, Chestermere
• Crossroads Community Association, all-season multisport facility, Calgary
• Lomond Community Centre Agricultural Society, arena renewal, Lomond
• Lubicon Lake Band #453, multipurpose facility, Little Buffalo
• Okotoks Pickleball and Tennis Centre, pickleball and tennis centre, Okotoks
• Parkland Pickleheads Pickleball Club, pickleball courts, Spruce Grove
• Rockyford Agricultural Society, curling rink upgrades, Rockyford
• South Fish Creek Recreation Association, energy efficient upgrades, Calgary
• Springbank Park for All Seasons Agricultural Society, gym and indoor turf field, Calgary
• Sunalta Community Association, all-season multisport facility, Calgary
• Sundre and District Curling Club, accessibility upgrades, Sundre
• Valley Ski Club Castor Association, snowmaking infrastructure upgrades, Alliance

Related information

• Active Communities Initiative