The launch of the National Housing Strategy saw several funding programs become available to housing co-operatives across the country. In addition to support for low-income households (ultimately through the Federal Community Housing Initiative), there was also support for building studies and capital projects.

Co-ops have benefited significantly from these programs. A handful of co-ops have seen loans and grants for building renewals supporting energy efficiency, and many, many more have benefited from Preservation Funding through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Preservation Funding has provided co-ops with money to obtain building condition assessments, long-term asset management plans, aging-in-place studies, and energy audits.

Over the last year, several of the building-related funding supports have come to an end. On February 2, 2026,  with no advanced public announcement, CMHC’s website was updated: Preservation Funding is now closed. The online portal is no longer taking new applications. We are not yet certain of the status of applications that have already been submitted, but are hopeful that they will be processed and funded to the extent possible.

Although this represents a further shift in government priorities towards new construction, the need for long-term planning remains for all co-ops. CHF BC continues to support members in obtaining the studies and analytical reviews that they require to care for their buildings and ensure their viability.

In keeping with its commitment to support co-ops, CHF BC will be taking measures to reduce program costs as part of a broader program update. Please contact the Planning & Renewal team to learn more about our services.

On a broader scale, CHF BC, alongside our Housing Central partners, will continue to advocate for the needs of housing co-operatives, including the need to protect and sustain current affordable housing options alongside the growth of new affordable developments.