Western Diversification Program
As of October 18, 2018, projects eligible for funding under the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) will no longer be funded under the Western Diversification Program (WDP). However, Western Economic Diversification Canada will continue to accept applications in these areas:
- Economic Development Initiative, and
- Canadian Coal Transition Initiative (CCTI).
For further information on CCTI, please contact our Edmonton or Saskatoon office.
The Western Diversification Program (WDP) makes strategic investments in initiatives with not-for-profit organizations that enhance and strengthen the economy of Western Canada.
Contributions will be made to projects that support the development and diversification of the western Canadian economy, and activities where economic and/or employment benefits accrue primarily within Western Canada.
For 2018-19, WD is in investing in WDP projects that directly support one (or more) of the following investment priorities:
- Cluster Growth
- Inclusive Economic Growth
Strong projects demonstrate:
- Strong market/industry demand (e.g., the project addresses a significant gap in the market, there is a demonstrated industry demand for the project or there is demonstrated labour/skills shortages);
- Clear, measurable economic results for Western Canada;
- Effective governance measures and management team in place to carry out the project;
- A strong rationale for the project;
- Financial statements that demonstrate the organization is financially self-sustaining;
- Leveraged funding from provincial governments, the private sector, and other non-government sources (typically 50 percent or more); and,
- Non-WD funding is confirmed. Funding will only be considered confirmed with proof of confirmed funding.
Eligible organizations
- Industry associations, economic development organizations, cultural organizations, and societies;
- Post-secondary institutions;
- Co-operatives;
- Hospitals and regional health care centers;
- Indigenous-led not-for-profits and organizations which may include but not limited to First Nations as represented by their Chief and Council, Tribal Councils, Indigenous Representative Organizations, Métis and Inuit organizations and Settlements as well as First Nation/Métis Settlement wholly-owned businesses where all profits accrue solely to the First Nation/Settlement to benefit community members;
- Municipal Governments and organizations created by them;
- Federal Crown Corporations (Treasury Board Secretariat will be consulted prior to any funding decisions for Federal Crown Corporations); and,
- Provincial Government Departments, agencies and Crown Corporations.
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