Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Habitat Stewardship Program (HSP) for Species at Risk?
The Habitat Stewardship Program for Species at Risk is a Government of Canada program, established in 2000, to support the recovery of endangered, threatened, and other species at risk and their habitats by engaging Canadians from all walks of life in conservation actions to benefit wildlife.
What are the selection criteria for projects under the Habitat Stewardship Program (HSP)?
HSP supports projects that focus on results in three main areas:
- Important habitat for aquatic species at risk is improved and/or managed to meet their recovery needs
- Threats to aquatic species at risk and/or their habitat are stopped, removed, and/or mitigated
- Collaboration and partnerships support the conservation and recovery of aquatic species at risk
What is the evaluation process and how are fund amounts determined for eligible projects?
Each proposal undergoes a thorough evaluation by regional and national DFO staff that consists of, first, verifying eligibility requirements and then prioritizing projects for funding based on technical merit and alignment with program priorities and expected results as well as capacity and past performance of the proponent to execute stewardship projects.
The HSP for Aquatic Species at Risk has an approximate annual national budget of $4M. Funding is variable and dependent on project activities. In an effort to promote collaboration and multi-year projects, the suggested minimum funding request to HSP is $25,000 (this amount may be spread over one or up to three years of a project). The Program does not have a maximum funding limit. However, typical HSP contributions can range from $25,000 to $100,000. For non-Indigenous groups and organizations, a minimum of 1:1 matching contributions (from non-federal sources) is required ($1 cash or in-kind non-federal match for $1 federal support). For Indigenous groups and organizations, a minimum of twenty percent (20%) matching contributions (from non-federal sources) is required ($0.20 cash or in-kind non-federal match for $1.00 federal support).
When will I receive notification that I have been approved for funding?
DFO is aiming to send notification of funding decisions by April, 2025.
I have an idea for a project, can you tell me if I should consider applying to HSP or not?
If you are interested in applying to HSP, please contact the relevant HSP Regional Coordinator to discuss your proposal in more detail.
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