Events, athletes, volunteer organizations and community groups across the region will receive a financial boost after Cold Lake City Council approved ,750 in grant funding through the Community, Recreation, Art, Culture and Heritage (CRACH) Investment Grant Program.

The funding was approved during council’s June 9 meeting following recommendations from the Community Grant Advisory Committee.

The City of Cold Lake allocates $250,000 annually to the CRACH program, which distributes funding through 10 different grant streams. Applications are reviewed monthly by the advisory committee before recommendations are forwarded to council for final approval.

“As always, we remain indebted to the good work that is done by the men and women who volunteer on the Grant Advisory Committee,” said Mayor Bob Mattice following council’s decision.

“We are also grateful for the work put in by the applicants – they represent the organizations, individuals, clubs and teams that make Cold Lake an exciting, vibrant place to live. We appreciate the events and programs they have brought forward for funding consideration.”

Funding supports athletes, events and community organizations

The largest grant approved was a $25,000 Sponsorship Grant for the Cold Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce to support the 2026 Feast at the Beach event, scheduled for September 4 and 5 at Kinosoo Beach.

Extreme Mudfest Bonnyville Inc. also received significant support, with council approving a $20,000 Stage Sponsorship Package for the 2026 event.

Other approved grants included:

• $500 Travel Grant for Emery Lee Jacob Ringuette to attend the 2026 Amazing Muay Thai World Festival in Bangkok, Thailand.
• $750 Travel Grant for Riley Papalia to attend the 2026 U17 Team Canada Wrestling tournament in Panama.
• $2,000 Community Incentive Grant for the Cold Lake Filipino Basketball League’s annual tournament in September.
• $2,000 Leadership Grant for the Cold Lake Sailing Association to certify new sailing instructors.
• $3,000 Community Recreation, Art, Culture and Heritage Investment Grant for Connected Media Inc. in support of the 2026 Ribfest event.
• $3,500 Platinum Sponsorship for the High Brown Club (RCMP) Charity Golf Tournament.

Supporting community growth

The CRACH program was created to support community initiatives that enhance recreation, arts, culture, heritage and quality of life in Cold Lake.

Funding is available to community organizations, non-profits, event organizers, volunteers and residents through a variety of grant streams designed to encourage local participation and community development.

Applications are accepted monthly, with deadlines falling on the first Thursday of each month. Event applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the event date to be eligible for consideration.

More information about the CRACH program and other municipal grant opportunities is available through the City of Cold Lake.