The AEF Trail Supporter Fund (TSF) assists with construction and/or maintenance of specific projects that benefit equestrian users.
Every year, groups and non-profit organizations can apply for funding for projects that fit into at least one of the following categories: equestrian trails, trailheads, horse camping sites, or trail safety. All projects must be in Alberta and available for public use. Grant funding is provided annually and is maintained by individual and corporate contributions and donations.
- Application submission deadline is May 15 of each year.
- The AEF’s Recreation Task Force reviews and approves funding proposals. Applicants who are granted TSF funds must submit a final report to the AEF.
- Scroll down to apply on our online form.
Donate today to the AEF’s Trail Supporter Fund to help support the development, maintenance and improvement of Alberta’s Equestrian trails.
Trail Supporter Fund Online Application
Application Information and Selection Criteria
The AEF Trail Supporter Fund (TSF) provides seed funding to AEF member clubs and businesses for projects supporting the development or maintenance of public equestrian trails, trailheads, and horse camping facilities in Alberta.
Funding is intended to leverage additional external funding. Applications are reviewed annually by an AEF-appointed committee.
Eligibility
Who Can Apply:
• AEF club or business members in good standing for at least 12 months
Eligible Projects:
• Trail construction, upgrades, or rehabilitation
• Bridges and water crossings
• Signage and trail mapping
• Horse camp facilities (e.g., corrals, water, toilets)
• Trailhead improvements for horse and trailer access
Eligible Costs:
• Materials and labour
• Equipment rental
• Professional services (engineering, surveying, etc.)
• Permits and environmental assessments
Ineligible Costs:
• Costs outside project timelines
• Land acquisition or prior debts
• Proposal development, legal fees, or travel
• Donated/in-kind goods and rebate-eligible taxes
• Ongoing operational costs
• Projects on private land
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
• Completed application form
• Detailed project plan and budget
• Supporting materials (e.g., maps/GPS if applicable)
• Authorized signatures
Applicants must also:
• Acknowledge AEF funding (signage, media, communications)
• Use approved logos/wording
Evaluation Criteria
Applications may be assessed based on:
• Completeness and quality of submission
• Community need, impact, and number of users served
• Demonstrated capacity to deliver the project
• Level of community support
• Environmental benefits
Additional considerations:
• Preference may be given to new applicants or underserved communities
• Multi-year projects require annual reapplication
Funding & Reporting
Successful applicants must:
• Submit a final report with photos (suitable for publication)
• Acknowledge AEF on social media (#AEFTrails)
• Provide receipts equal to or exceeding funding received
• Complete the project within the approved fiscal year
Funding is released upon receipt of required documentation.
Application Guidance (Summary)
Project Description should include:
• Timeline (start and completion)
• Objectives and rationale
• Key activities and resources
• Expected outcomes and benefits
• Measurement of success
• Communication and signage plan
Budget must include:
• All revenue sources (grants, contributions, sponsorships)
• Detailed expense categories
To Apply please complete the following questionnaire, attach your budget and any supplemental information then hit the submit button.