New Funding Model Introduced for 2026-27 MHA Matching Grant Program
Oct 01
2026
By Hockey Saskatchewan
REGINA, Sask. – Hockey Saskatchewan is pleased to launch the fifth edition of the Minor Hockey Association (MHA) Matching Grant Program for the 2026-27 season.
This program continues to provide financial support for MHAs across the province, with the goal of strengthening player development through improved skating instruction.
All registered MHAs are eligible to apply for matching funds to assist with the costs of either hiring qualified power skating instructors or certifying local individuals to deliver instruction within their communities.
New to the program this season, grant amounts for 2026-27 will be tiered based on each local association's total player registration in 2025-26.
|
Size of MHA by 2025-26 Players Registered |
Amount of 2026-27 MHA Matching Grant |
|---|---|
|
3,000-plus |
$5,000 |
|
2,000-plus |
$3,000 |
|
700-plus |
$2,500 |
|
500-plus |
$2,000 |
|
200-plus |
$1,500 |
|
100-plus |
$1,250 |
|
Less than 100 |
$1,000 |
CLICK HERE for a listing of 2025-26 MHA player registrations, which determines the level of grant each MHA is eligible to receive.
The 2026-27 program is open to power skating initiatives targeting Under-7 (U7) to Under-13 (U13) players, with activities eligible for support taking place between September 2026 and January 2027.
To qualify for funding, all power skating instructors must hold a Hockey Saskatchewan-approved certification by December 31, 2026, and complete either the Respect in Sport Activity Leader program or Hockey Canada's Shift Forward Program.
Power skating coach certification must be achieved through one of the following approved routes:
- Hockey Canada Certified Skills Coach (Level 3)
- Hockey Saskatchewan Skills Licensee
- CanPower Skate – Delivered by Skate Canada
- Hockey Saskatchewan Skills Coach (Level 1)
- Hockey Saskatchewan Power Skating Coach (Level 1)
Receipts for eligible expenses can be uploaded through the online form available on the MHA Matching Grant Program's webpage until February 28, 2027. Associations must match the amount of funding awarded through the program.
“Hockey Saskatchewan believes strong skating fundamentals play a critical role in player development while also helping retain young athletes in the game,” said Kelly McClintock, General Manager of Hockey Saskatchewan. “The MHA Matching Grant Program continues to support local associations in providing quality instruction opportunities for young players across the province.”
Funded through proceeds from the IIHF World Junior Championship 50/50 draws, the grant program has proven to be a valuable resource in recent years. Since its introduction in the 2020-21 season, more than $300,000 has been distributed to MHAs, directly supporting grassroots development initiatives.
GRANT APPLICATION – CLICK HERE
If members have questions, please contact Hockey Saskatchewan General Manager Kelly McClintock via email at (KellyM@HockeySask.ca) or call (306) 789-5101.
About HOCKEY SASKATCHEWAN
Hockey Saskatchewan was established in 1912 and is the governing body for organized hockey in the province. With a mission of advancing hockey through innovation, engagement and participation, Hockey Saskatchewan encourages competition at all levels – from recreational to high performance. Hockey Saskatchewan has grown through the years and is Saskatchewan’s largest sports organization with over 53,400 members comprised of players, coaches and officials. For more information, please visit www.hockeysask.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
