Several Haida Gwaii organizations were left scrambling earlier this year after Gwaii Trust Society unexpectedly removed one of its largest funding streams, only to reinstate it weeks later.
The Major Contributions Grant, a key source of funding for community projects across the islands, was pulled from the Trust’s 2026 grant offerings, creating uncertainty for non-profits and local groups that rely on the program to plan staffing, events and capital work.
In a statement to Haida Gwaii News, Chief Executive Officer Latasha Williams said the move was tied to financial pressures beyond the islands.
“In 2025 and into 2026, the Gwaii Trust Society’s projected investment income experienced fluctuations due to ongoing disruptive geopolitical events,” Williams said. “The Board of Directors sought guidance from our financial consultants and adopted a more conservative investment approach to safeguard the Fund.”
As part of that approach, the Major Contributions Grant was temporarily removed. Williams said the decision was not a reflection of the program’s value, but part of a broader effort to protect long-term funding.
“The Board’s responsibility is not only to today’s applicants, but to safeguarding the Fund so that it remains in perpetuity,” she said.
That explanation may offer context, but the timing left many groups in limbo during early planning months, when grant-dependent budgets are often being finalized.
The situation shifted again on March 25, when the Trust’s board amended its 2026 budget following stronger-than-expected investment returns.
The Major Contributions Grant has now been reinstated, with $600,000 available. Applications are open, with a deadline of May 1.
The Trust also pointed to the rollout of its Athlii Gwaii Legacy grant streams, which are expected to expand funding opportunities for local governments and community partners.
For many organizations, however, the episode highlights how quickly funding landscapes can change, and how dependent community work on Haida Gwaii remains on a small number of major grant sources.
