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OTTAWA— Own the Podium and the national sport community are celebrating the Government of Canada’s generational investment of $775 million over five years, and $118 million/year ongoing, starting in 2026-27 that was announced today during the Spring Economic Update.
This much-needed financial injection will help rebuild a modern, aligned and well-supported Canadian sport system by giving national sport organizations the tools they need to create inclusive, safe, and sustainable programs that introduce more kids to sport and engage them for life. The investment in all levels of the system will help national sport organizations remove barriers to participation for all ages and all levels and will help ensure Canadians of all ages and backgrounds can benefit from sport – from the playground to the podium.
“The Government of Canada made it clear today they share Own the Podium’s belief that sport matters in this country. This generous landmark investment is an investment in a stronger and safer sport system and in a healthier population of Canadians of all ages,” said Anne Merklinger, chief executive officer, Own the Podium. “Prime Minister Mark Carney, Adam van Koeverden (Secretary of State, Sport),and the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne (Minister of Finance and National Revenue) reinforced the Government’s commitment to Canadians that sport is an important community asset and unifier in this country that needs to be supported at all levels.”
The critical investment is not only sure to elevate Canada’s presence on the world stage, it will also build lasting community benefits at home. Investments in hosting international events will not only bring elite level competition to Canada, but also leave behind upgraded facilities and stronger local sport infrastructure that communities can use for years to come. Enhanced support for high-performance athletes will help them train and compete at their best, while significant new funding for national sport organizations will expand and strengthen the athlete pathway, particularly among children and youth. Together, these initiatives aim to create a more connected, accessible, and thriving sport system that supports excellence and participation at every level.
“Today’s investment will for sure play a vital role in ensuring Canada’s athletes are fully prepared to achieve their performance goals on the international stage, but the benefits extend far beyond Olympic and Paralympic athletes winning more medals for Canada,” added Merklinger. “Sport develops the values and characteristics that help make Canadians better on and off the field of play, leading to a healthier nation. The Government of Canada has made the communities we play, train and live in better today.”
About Own the Podium
Own the Podium, a not-for-profit organization, whose purpose is to support Olympic and Paralympic athletes in winning well. It is our goal to help all athletes get to the start line and know they have done everything possible to achieve their performance objectives in a culture of excellence that protects their psychological and physical health and safety. Own the Podium's largest contributor of funding is the Government of Canada with additional funding provided by the Canadian Olympic Committee/Canadian Olympic Foundation, the Canadian Paralympic Committee/Paralympic Foundation of Canada, along with the corporate community. For a full summary of Own the Podium initiatives and programs, including a breakdown of support and services by sport, please visit us at www.ownthepodium.org on the Internet.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Chris Dornan
Own the Podium
T: 403-620-8731
E-mail: chris.dornan@ownthepodium.org
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