Canadian amateur sport to receive $72 million in pandemic relief money

May 8, 2020 | 11:32 AM

OTTAWA — Canada’s amateur sports system will receive $72 million from a federal government emergency support fund to alleviate the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Federal Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault recently announced $500 million in pandemic relief to cultural, heritage, and sports organizations.

Those details were announced Friday.

Of the $72 million, $34.5 million is earmarked for national organizations, $32.5 million to provincial and territorial associations, and the Athlete Assistance Program (AAP) will be bolstered by $5 million.

Athletes whose Sport Canada assistance cheques are impacted by both the postponement of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics and the pandemic will receive financial assistance through AAP.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

Following the announcement, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) and the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) said this will be a massive help in supporting athletes.

“We are sincerely grateful to Prime Minister Trudeau and Minister Guilbeault for announcing the $72M investment to support the Canadian sport system. National Sport Organizations are facing significant obstacles, including limited cash flows, layoffs and uncertainty. Along with this funding package, the COC and CPC will fully support the NSOs and broader sport community. “

In addition to the money allocated for sports, organizations in arts and culture will receive $198.3 million through existing programs, $115.8 million will go to the Canadian audiovisual sectors, and $53 million will be provided to the Museums Assistance Program.

by David Opinko / with files from The Canadian Press

Canadian amateur sport to receive $72 million in pandemic relief money

What's Happening