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SOCIAL ENTERPRISE FUND

Valley First is proud to support the launch of the Community Impact Social Enterprise Fund, a new initiative designed to empower nonprofit organizations across the lower mainland. This program provides accessible financial support to help social enterprises start, grow, and create lasting impact in our communities.

What is the Community Impact Social Enterprise Fund?

The Community Impact Social Enterprise Fund is designed to empower social service organizations both emerging and established, as they develop and grow mission-driven ventures. Through micro grants and strategic support, the Fund helps organizations launch innovative ideas, scale existing social enterprises, and build sustainable business models that address social challenges in our regions. Whether you're tackling food insecurity, mental health, or employment training, we're here to help you expand your reach and drive meaningful change.

Learn about the sustainable goals that are guiding our community investment

Zero hunger

Addressing the need for supplemental food resources through sustainable programs, by supporting and empowering local sustainable, agricultural initiatives.

Good health and well-being

Increase the availability of mental health services, as well as driving innovation in mental health care.

Quality education

Ensure that financial barriers do not hinder access to education and support individuals to develop skills and experience to succeed in their future.

Decent work and economic growth

Support job creation and skill development with workplace readiness in the community.

Reduced inequalities

Support with addressing inequality through targeting initiatives in financial literacy, job readiness and other support services.

Climate action

Support local sustainable, agricultural projects and green businesses to create jobs, stimulate economic growth and reduce food insecurity in our communities.

Two strategic streams

We believe in the power of partnership, working together to achieve social impact and make a difference in our communities.

Social enterprise fund

Launch & Build Stream

For new or early-stage social enterprises:

  • Seed funding for essential early costs (registration, pilot projects, staffing)
  • Access to workshops, coaching, and networking
  • Peer-learning circles and community showcases

Scale & Sustain Stream

For established social enterprises ready to grow:

  • Capacity building workshops and mentorship
  • Connections to grants, loans, and investment opportunities
  • Operational support in marketing, technology, and process optimization
  • Peer learning networks

Why apply?

  • Lower barriers to entry with flexible micro grants
  • Build foundational capacity and access mentorship
  • Expand your impact and reach more beneficiaries
  • Foster strategic partnerships and community engagement
  • Promote financial sustainability and long-term success
Who can apply
  • You are a nonprofit organization, registered charity, or social service organization operating within Valley First communities
  • Your organization is aligned to one of our identified Sustainable Development Goals
    • Zero Hunger
    • Good Health & Well Being
    • Quality Education
    • Decent Work & Economic Growth
    • Reduced Inequalities
    • Climate Action
  • You deliver social programs and/or services in a community served by Valley First
  • Your social enterprise is new, emerging, or mid-stage in its life cycle.
  • There is no conflict of interest for Tru Cooperative Bank
  • Grants may be available up to $75,000. We encourage you to request the amount of funding that meets your current needs as funding capacity is limited.
Applications unlikely to receive funding
  • Organizations that support individuals, rather than the community at large
  • Religious or political organizations and affiliated activities
  • Organizations that represent a conflict of interest for Tru Cooperative Bank

We appreciate your interest in the Community Impact Social Enterprise Fund; only applications selected for an interview will be contacted.

Applications unlikely to receive funding
  • Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis
  • Our first grant recipients will be contacted by December 9, 2025

Ready to grow your vision with us?

two volunteers gardening in a community garden

If you have any questions or are having trouble with the application form, please email Susan Byrom at SByrom@firstwestcu.ca or Tracy Fortino at TFortino@firstwestcu.ca.

Applicants will be redirected to Do Some Good, our trusted online community platform. As a founding partner, we invite you to create your own profile and help us in building a stronger and more connected community. Learn more.

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