CIRA Community Investment Program

As the stewards of Canada’s online identifier, we want to be good digital citizens.

Our primary focus at CIRA is to run the .CA registry and underlying domain name system (DNS) infrastructure. We do that work very well, and as a result we have come to play a critical role in the Canadian Internet ecosystem.

As the stewards of Canada’s online identifier, we also want to be good digital citizens. I believe that includes giving back to the community when we can and where it will make a difference. It’s also part of our corporate mandate. Our Community Investment Program, or CIP, is based on Article 3 of our ‘articles of continuance’ which allows us “to develop, carry out and support any other Internet-related activities in Canada.”

For the past couple of years, we have been working with community-based groups to establish Internet Exchange Points in Canada. To date, we have helped two get off the ground, and are working with groups in other cities.

For the past four years, we have hosted the Canadian Internet Forum, an arena for dialogue with Canadians about the Internet-related issues that are important to them. And, we have supported organizations like MediaSmarts, TechU.me and Code for Kids in their work to empower youth with the skills they need to be safe and successful in an increasingly digitally-dependent world.

I’m pleased to announce that beginning today, and until February 28, we are accepting applications for funding through our CIP. Eligible agencies include community groups, not-for-profits and academic institutions with projects in mind that enhance the Internet for the benefit of all Canadians. More information about applicant eligibility and the application process is available here. An arm’s length committee comprised of CIRA Board members and community experts will evaluate the proposals and award funds based on merit.

In the coming year, CIRA will be investing up to $1,000,000 in the Canadian Internet community. Qualifying organizations may receive funding ranging from $25,000 to as much as $100,000 for their project. While the CIP is open to a wide range of ideas, the intent is to make a lasting positive impact on how Canadians access and use the Internet for the foreseeable future.

If you know an organization that could benefit from our support, please let them know about the Community Investment Program. Together we can enhance the Internet experience for all Canadians.