Budget 2023 represents a missed opportunity to strengthen the contributions of philanthropy to Canada in a time of uncertainty and crisis

PFC/FPC

Policy Advisories

2 mins read

Mar 28, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 28, 2023, 7 PM ET

– TORONTO, ON –

The effectiveness of philanthropy to advance the common good is connected to the strength of the operating environment and legislative framework for philanthropy. 2021 and 2022 saw some key federal investments and regulatory changes for Canada’s charities and nonprofits to help address the greatest health and economic challenges faced in generations, several of which were reiterated in Budget 2023. These efforts will undoubtedly improve the operating environment and increase philanthropy’s effectiveness. But sustained improvement requires that the sector and the federal government work together over the long term.

Philanthropic Foundations Canada is encouraged that some progress is being made on a few fronts with announcements in Budget 2023. Nonetheless, Budget 2023 represents a missed opportunity overall. None of the measures that we advocated for, alongside other leaders in our sector, as outlined in our Budget 2023 submission, were included.

Jean-Marc Mangin, President & CEO, Philanthropic Foundations Canada said: ‘’The last two years saw important investments and regulatory changes for Canada’s non-profit and charitable sector. This year’s budget does little to build on that momentum to modernize the regulatory regime to better serve all Canadians. PFC will continue to engage with the federal government to consider and take the necessary pragmatic steps to improve philanthropy’s collective impact for the common good.‘’

Philanthropic Foundations Canada makes note of the new announcements and funding related to advancing key issues such as climate change, gender diversity, Indigenous housing, and systemic racism and discrimination. However, our key recommendations were not part of Budget 2023. In particular, Philanthropic Foundations Canada is disappointed that the government did not commit to a dedicated advocate or “home” for the non-profit and charitable sector within the machinery of government. A home within government would provide much-needed analysis and advocacy, and a platform for greater collaboration, efficiency, and strengthening the long-term resilience and ongoing impact of the sector to Canadians.

CONTACT

Sara Krynitzki

Director of Public Affairs and Research

skrynitzki@pfc.ca