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Stella Conceptual Drawing Grant
Funding Innovative Designs for Community Spaces
The Stella Conceptual Drawing Grant helps community groups take the first step from a great idea to a build‑ready park or community space. This grant supports the creation of professional concept drawings, giving communities a clear vision they can use to plan, fundraise, and move their project forward with confidence.
Through this grant, eligible Calgary‑based organizations can receive support to work with a qualified landscape architect to develop conceptual plans for new or improved parks, community gathering spaces, or other outdoor amenities. These drawings help illustrate what is possible, reflect community input, and serve as a key tool for future grant applications and partnerships.
Download the Application Form
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Submit in electronic format to [email protected]
Applicants can request up to $5,000 to hire a landscape architect to provide a professional drawing that reflects the innovative vision a group would like to create.
Who Can Apply
Calgary-based organization, club, league, educational institution or group can apply if your project:
Has a clear vision and showcases the community need as it relates to park development and community use
Is a complex and innovative idea, where a local contractor/supplier cannot produce the same work without a concept design (e.g. traditional playgrounds, rink improvements)
Has considered the benefit and flexible use of the park space and considers how a variety of demographics will use it
Is located within Calgary’s municipal boundaries
Playground designs are not eligible for a Stella Conceptual Drawing Grant.
How to Apply
Grant applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis and approved by our Board of Governors. The Stella Conceptual Drawing Grant Program can award up to 10 grants each year. Projects with highly complex and innovative design ideas will receive higher priority.
Step 1:
Complete the application form and submit an electronic copy.
Step 2:
For digital copies: compile the application and all required documents into one .pdf file. Please do not submit your application as multiple emails, files, or as a zip.
Step 3:
Send the digital copy to: [email protected]
Use subject line: “Stella Conceptual Drawing Grant – PROJECT NAME”
Review The Stella Conceptual Drawing Grant Guidelines
Review Parks Foundation's Privacy Policy
Made Possible by Mario Stella
Mario Stella was a dedicated philanthropist who found many ways to give back to his community. Born in Blairmore, Alberta, he moved to Calgary at 18, graduated from SAIT, and worked long hours with the Gallelli group of companies before striking out on his own. After marrying the love of his life, Rosetta, Mario purchased the Riverside grocery store and later, in 1967, founded Stella Holdings Ltd., successfully developing numerous properties across the city.
Mario’s generosity and visionary gift to Parks Foundation Calgary will create a lasting legacy through the Stella Conceptual Drawing Grant Program. His support will continue to inspire forward‑thinking, community‑driven design, helping neighbourhoods imagine and plan innovative parks and gathering spaces for years to come.
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Parks Foundation is a civic partner and qualified donee, which makes your donation eligible for charitable tax credits. For more information, please see our Receiving Donations and Issuing Tax Receipts Policy.
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Parks Foundation is a civic partner and qualified donee.
225 – 13 Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2R 1N8