As part of Budget 2026, the Province of BC has announced $15 million in funding to support the FireSmart Community Funding & Supports (FCFS) program. The additional funds will support the 2026 Winter/Spring closed intake.
When the transition from an open intake to a closed, competitive intake was announced in January, approximately $25 million was remaining in the FCFS fund.
Applications received in the final days of the open intake could potentially absorb the majority of the remaining $25 million, but the adjudication process will not be finalized until mid-spring. All remaining dollars, as well as the additional $15 million, will be considered under the 2026 Winter/Spring closed intake.
The 2026 Winter/Spring closed intake will accept applications until April 30. While the total demand for funding is not yet known, it is expected that the requested funds will exceed the remaining dollars, including the additional $15 million.
UBCM has called on the Province for sustained funding for the program. Impacts expected from the lack of funding has been highlighted in numerous media outlets.