Last year, we identified affordable housing and early childhood development as priorities — areas where long-term change begins. Since then, we have invested $3.5 million in 68 organizations across both sectors while bringing partners together in new ways. Because sometimes what’s needed isn’t just more funding, but better alignment — connecting public, private and philanthropic leaders to unlock solutions none of us could reach on our own.
Advancing affordable housing
When we imagine a city where everyone has a place to call home, projects like The Plexes bring that closer. Led by NiGiNan Housing Ventures, this 28 unit, 56-bed development is supported by a $200,000 grant from ECF. But impact isn’t measured in dollars. It’s measured in stability, dignity and the sense of belonging that comes with a safe home. The Plexes is one of nine commitments we made totalling $1 million in 2025, part of our broader goal to help house 5,000 Edmontonians by 2028. By combining grants, social financing from the Social Enterprise Fund and convening partners across sectors, we’re helping move housing solutions from idea to reality.
“With ECF’s support, The Plexes will increase our total number of housing units to 200 enabling us to serve over 220 people annually. This helps us continue to grow our capacity to provide safe, stable homes for our community.”
-Keri Cardinal CEO, NiGiNan Housing Ventures
This story comes from our 2025 Impact Report.
