Saskatchewan communities can now begin applying for funding through the Canadian Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF), with the initial application window open until May 20.
The provincial government announced Monday that more than $23 million will be distributed in this first round through the Provincial-Territorial stream of CHIF. The fund is aimed at supporting municipal infrastructure projects tied to housing growth and community development.
“Under the Canadian Housing Infrastructure Fund, communities will be able to invest in the vital municipal infrastructure that grows our economy, allows for new home construction and improves our overall quality of life,” Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said in a news release.
Backed by $187.9 million in federal funding and more than $155 million from the province, CHIF will support critical infrastructure projects including drinking water, wastewater, stormwater and solid waste systems. The investments are expected to pave the way for new housing developments across Saskatchewan.
The first competitive intake is open to Saskatchewan communities approved for the federal Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) and those with populations over 30,000. Eligible municipalities include Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Moose Jaw, Moosomin, La Ronge, Radisson, Outlook and Humboldt.
The CHIF agreement between Canada and Saskatchewan requires committed funding allocations by June 30, 2025. A second intake, open to all eligible municipalities, is scheduled for mid-September. Unlike the current round, approval under the federal HAF program will not be required for the fall intake.
Schmalz encouraged municipalities to begin preparing for future application rounds, noting that more than $340 million in total funding is available through the program.
Full program details, eligibility requirements and application guidelines are available on the Government of Saskatchewan website.