PFC welcomes first steps in Budget 2026 in mobilizing philanthropic investments for the public good

Philanthropic Foundations Canada welcomes Budget 2026, as it is the first step to more philanthropic investment in Canada.

The budget offers costed commitments to work with charities and foundations to:

• Boost nonmarket housing;
• Provide critical support to those experiencing homelessness, addiction and mental health challenges; 
• Strengthen marine conservation.

“The challenge now is to turn these commitments into opportunities that deliver tangible benefits for Canadians – and also generate real financial returns to investors,” said Jean-Marc Mangin, President & CEO of PFC. 

“We also welcome aligning public and private foundations under the same rules – by eliminating the excess corporate holdings regime. This change will catalyze more investment by institutional philanthropy into Canadian companies, notably emerging and innovative ones that struggle to attract capital. 

“These measures are important first steps, now let’s create enabling conditions.”

The government’s intention to give financing Crown corporations, including the future federal development bank, greater flexibility to deploy capital in support of public policy objectives is an important development. 

“With the right tools, including guarantees and risk-sharing mechanisms, Canada could catalyse significant philanthropic and private investment to tackle our most pressing social and environmental challenges,” added Mangin.

PFC is ready to work with the Government of Canada to enhance investment tools and policies, to unlock significant philanthropic capital for community priorities such as affordable housing, local infrastructure, clean energy, and other shared priorities.

Building from Budget 2026, PFC encourages the Government of Canada to engage with philanthropic partners ahead of the spring economic update.

CONTACT

Sara Krynitzki
Associate CEO
Philanthropic Foundations Canada

Philanthropic Foundations Canada (PFC) is Canada’s national philanthropic network, working together towards a more just, equitable and sustainable world. Our membership is comprised of private and public foundations, charities, non-profits, donor-advised funds and corporate giving programs whose primary purposes are grantmaking. Canada’s foundations contribute more than $11 billion annually through grants and steward more than $160 billion in investment assets that finance this charitable work.