Equestrian Canada and the Eventing High Performance Advisory Group are excited to announce the launch of the Eventing Venue Development Fund. The fund has been established to support the development and improvement of eventing venues across Canada. Funds raised will go to support both FEI-sanctioned competition venues as well as national competition venues. The goal of the fund is to enhance Canadian facilities to meet international standards, improve Canadian athlete competitiveness on the world stage, provide exciting spectator experiences and encourage the growth of eventing within the country.
“We’re launching the Eventing Venue Development Fund to recognize and support the commitment our venues make year after year to the sustainability and continued progress of Eventing in Canada,” said Emily Gilbert, chair of the Eventing HPAG. “Their dedication forms the backbone of our sport, and we’re inviting communities across the country to rally behind this initiative so we can strengthen, grow and protect these essential competition venues for years to come.”
Kathleen Ziegler, athlete development director at Alberta Horse Trials commented, “The creation of the Eventing Venue Development Fund is greatly appreciated. As equestrian sport continues to grow more expensive, it has become increasingly challenging to ensure riders across Canada are able to train and compete at home. This fund will support the updating and development of eventing sites nationwide, helping competitors work toward meeting international standards without leaving Canadian soil. By investing in both competitive standards and safety, this initiative supports our event sites and will strengthen the future of eventing in Canada.”
The Fund will support all levels of eventing venues across Canada. Grants will range from $500 – $100,000 depending on scope & funds available.
To be eligible to receive funding, venues must:
- Be a recognized eventing venue in Canada, hosting or planning to host EC Sanctioned events
- Provide a clear project plan outlining specific venue upgrades or improvements
- Demonstrate alignment with FEI &/or National standards
- Ensure that all work is completed within a reasonable time frame & in line with competition schedules
- Be in good standing with EC
The Fund will support:
- Facility Upgrades (XC courses, footing, stabling etc.)
- Infrastructure (signage, VIP, seating, event facilities)
- Safety Features (fence upgrades, installation of safety equipment)
- Environmental Upgrades (water management, waste disposal & energy efficiency)
As well as hosting their first ever FEI International competition at the CCI1* CCI2* levels, Wesley Clover Parks in Ottawa, ON, hosted the Eastern Canadian Eventing Championships this fall, crowning champions from across Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador.
“Funding our Canadian eventing venues is incredibly important,” said Karen Sparks, founder and executive director at The Parks. “To ensure sustainability and growth in this sport we need to ensure there is a funding track for the future. Hopefully the Venue Development Fund will be supported so it’s able to raise the tide for many event venues across the country.”
For detailed info on timelines and how to apply, click HERE. All grants will be reviewed by the EC Eventing HPAG.
The first $6,000 raised has come from our NTP athletes and the 2025 Across the Nation Clinic series.
To grow the fund we need your support! Support your local events & organizers by making your tax-deductible donation to the Venue Development Fund HERE.
