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Access to the Standards Community: Participants gain full access to the accreditation application and progress at their own pace. The Standards Community serves as a resource hub, providing guidance, templates, and tools to support organizations in better understanding the Standards and their requirements.Application fees covered: The Standards Community fee, as well as the one-time application fee, are fully covered by Canada Life. Selected organizations are responsible for other program-related costs associated with their accreditation, namely the annual license fees. Learn more about the program fees Personalized support: The Imagine Canada team provides tailored guidance throughout the accreditation process.Peer connections: Organizations can request to be matched with peer mentors to address challenges, refine strategies, and implement best practices for a successful accreditation.Complimentary tools: Access tools such as the Gap Analysis Tool for self-assessment, improvement planning, and other resources.
Rationale: Has the organization clearly described how accreditation will impact their governance and/or their ability to deliver on their mission? Have they articulated a strong case for why this in-kind assistance will bolster their efforts? Do they show a desire for learning and continuous improvement? Approach: Are the project timelines for getting accredited reasonable? Does the organization have committed leadership and experience managing operational change? Have they previously attempted to pursue accreditation? (If so, what did they learn?).Strategy: Does the organization have a strategic plan or working strategy? Equity and inclusion: Is the organization led by and/or serving equity-deserving communities? Is there diversity among the board, staff, and/or its leadership?
A commitment from the Board of Directors to submit a full application by the end of 2027Notification to Imagine Canada if delays arise and an alternative timeline is neededAgreement to pay the application fees if the application is not submitted on time by the end of 2027 and no extension has been granted.
Canada Life Capacity Building Program 2026
and are excited to partner once again to launch the second edition of the Canada Life Capacity Building Program. This transformative initiative empowers charities and nonprofits across Canada by supporting their journey toward , helping organizations strengthen operations, build trust and pursue excellence.
About the Program
The Canada Life Capacity Building Program supports selected organizations as they work toward achieving Imagine Canada Standards accreditation. Program benefits include:
.Eligibility and Application
Please note: Organizations already accredited or that submitted an application for peer review after the Program was announced are not eligible.
We particularly encourage applications from organizations led by or supporting Black, racialized, and other equity-deserving communities.
How to Apply
We recognize that preparing for accreditation takes time and effort, which is why the application process is designed to be simple, supportive, and accessible.
Wondering when and how to bring this to your board of directors? Many organizations consult their board of directors about accreditation before proceeding to Stage 2. While board review or approval is not required at this stage, it is recommended. Board approval is required for the final stages of the process.
Stage 1 - Expression of Interest
Start by submitting a short online statement to introduce your organization and share your interest in the Program. We’ll review submissions to assess eligibility and alignment with the Program’s goals.
All applicants will be informed of whether they have been selected to advance to Stage 2 of the application process.
The deadline for completing the Stage 1 - Expression of Interest is March 27, 2026 11:59PM ET.
Stage 2
If selected to move to Stage 2, your application will be reviewed by a joint selection committee composed of representatives of Imagine Canada and Canada Life. When applications exceed available spots, the committee will consider the following criteria to guide their decisions:
Final stage - Board Commitment and Agreement
At this final stage, selected organizations confirm their intention to pursue accreditation, including:
Public Announcement
The selected organizations will be publicly announced in September 2026. for an example of last year’s announcement.
Program timeline and deadlines
Note: Dates are for reference only and may be subject to change in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Contact Information
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