This year marks a milestone for Alberta Ecotrust—our partnership with the Suncor Energy Foundation (SEF) and its predecessor organizations has reached an incredible 30 years. This long-standing relationship with SEF, a visionary partner of Alberta Ecotrust, has provided years of support for us in delivering our programs. It's a testament to the power of collaboration in creating a sustainable and vibrant Alberta, resulting in real-life impacts.

The Suncor Energy Foundation, an independent organization funded by Suncor Energy, has a long history of fostering positive societal change through business and community partnerships. For many years, SEF has championed social innovation and sustainability. Recently, Suncor Energy Foundation committed to a generous multi-year donation of $850,000 to Alberta Ecotrust, a game-changer for our programs. This substantial support increases our ability to deliver vital initiatives and significantly impacts our mission to foster a healthier, more sustainable province. 

Thanks to the generous support from the Suncor Energy Foundation, the Home Upgrades Program (HUP) has been a catalyst for change, transforming lives across Alberta. This program, delivered in partnership with Kambo Energy, has celebrated its first anniversary this summer. It aims to make energy costs more affordable for households experiencing energy poverty in Calgary, Edmonton and other communities in Alberta. The program provides crucial upgrades like air sealing, insulation, high-efficiency water heaters, and furnaces, significantly reducing energy use and bills. 

HUP has already transformed over 125 homes in Calgary and Edmonton, with plans to reach 215 households by the end of fall. The improvements not only enhance home comfort and safety for the residents but also alleviate financial stress for lower-income families. Through HUP, SEF is helping to turn challenges into opportunities, demonstrating that their support is about much more than numbers—it’s about changing lives and making a real world impact in our communities. 

Our collaboration with SEF is a partnership built on more than just financial support; it's about learning, mutual growth, and a shared commitment to making a difference. SEF team members and their colleagues at Suncor actively engage with our staff, Board, and community members. Our annual Environmental Gathering, for example,  is a hub for dialogue and relationship-building, bringing together diverse perspectives to address issues in Alberta, and thrives thanks to SEF's role. 

"Both Alberta Ecotrust and Suncor Energy Foundation understand the critical need to bring together diverse voices and multiple sectors for meaningful conversations and dialogue, so it really is a generative partnership," says Cassandra Litke Wyatt from Suncor Energy Foundation, "Alberta Ecotrust’s proactive and collaborative approach models the kind of place we want to see more of:  where all voices work together, where people foster empathy, understanding, and meaningful change.."

Suncor Energy Foundation's support has been crucial in helping us fund and carry out important projects across Alberta.  Our work would not be possible without the support of SEF and many other generous donors and funders. We’re incredibly grateful for their partnership.

If you’d like to get involved, there are plenty of ways to help. You can contribute financially, volunteer for our committees or events, or help spread the word about what we do. Every bit of support makes a huge difference, and we’re always happy to welcome any help you can offer.

Thanks so much for our supportive community and helping us make a positive impact!

Photo of Alberta Ecotrust's annual Environmental Gathering event, of which Suncor Energy Foundation is a longtime sponsor and supporter.