Training and competing at the international level is expensive. The Athlete Assistance Program (AAP) helps Canada’s top athletes cover living and training costs as they prepare for major competitions like the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The program is run by the Government of Canada and is a key source of direct financial support for high-performance athletes.
The Athlete Assistance Program (AAP) is a federal funding program delivered by the Department of Canadian Heritage. It provides monthly financial support, called carding, to eligible Canadian athletes who meet national and international performance standards.
The goal is simple: help athletes focus on training and competition, not on paying rent or basic living expenses.
Key facts:
You cannot apply directly as an individual without support from your sport body. Eligibility is based on athlete carding status, which is managed through your National Sport Organization (NSO).
You may be eligible if you:
There are different carding levels, which reflect your stage and results in sport:
Each sport has its own criteria. Sport Canada and your NSO set these together.
AAP funding is paid as a monthly stipend. The amount depends on your carding level and status.
The funding supports:
Not every athlete receives the same amount. Funding levels can change over time. Federal policy and sport priorities affect these amounts. Your NSO can confirm the current monthly rate for your carding category.
The application process runs through your National Sport Organization, not directly through the federal government.
Confirm eligibility with your NSO
Talk to your high-performance director or athlete services contact. They check if you meet Sport Canada’s carding standards.
Submit required athlete information
You may need to provide competition results, training plans, and proof of status.
NSO submits nominations to Sport Canada
Your NSO gathers eligible athletes and submits official nominations.
Sport Canada reviews and approves carding
Sport Canada makes the final decision.
Funding is issued monthly
Once approved, payments go directly to the athlete.
Deadlines and nomination cycles are different for each sport. Missing your NSO’s internal deadline is a common reason athletes miss out.
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can show how AAP fits with other federal or provincial support programs related to sport and self-employment.
AAP funding is usually taxable income. You must report it on your annual tax return.
Tips:
Tax treatment can depend on your full income situation.
Assuming you can apply directly
All applications go through your NSO. There is no individual federal application form.
Missing NSO nomination deadlines
Internal deadlines often come months before funding decisions.
Not understanding your carding category
Funding levels and renewal rules depend on your exact carding status.
Ignoring tax obligations
AAP payments are not “free money.” Plan for income tax early.
Q: Is the Athlete Assistance Program only for Olympic athletes?
No. The program supports a range of international-level athletes, including those on the Paralympic pathway and other world-class programs.
Q: Can I receive AAP funding and other grants at the same time?
Yes, in many cases. AAP funding can often be combined with provincial athlete support, scholarships, or sponsorships, as long as program rules are followed.
Q: How long does AAP funding last?
Carding is approved for a set period, often one year. Athletes must be re-nominated and re-approved to continue receiving funding.
Q: What happens if I’m injured?
In some cases, athletes may qualify for Injury Carding (C1), which allows temporary continued support while recovering.
Q: Who decides if I get carded?
Your NSO recommends athletes, but Sport Canada makes the final decision.
GrantHub tracks over 2,500 programs across Canada—including athlete, self-employment, and training supports—so you can see what fits your profile.
If you are pursuing high-performance sport, AAP funding is often just one piece of your financial picture. Provincial programs, training grants, and self-employment supports may also apply. GrantHub can help you understand how federal programs like the Athlete Assistance Program fit alongside other funding options available to Canadians.
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.