Reading Between the Mandates: what Alberta’s policy shift means for nonprofits

Premier Danielle Smith dropped 25 new mandate letters this fall, signalling a shift in priorities and tone from the Government of Alberta. Here’s what stands out for Alberta’s nonprofit sector.   

First, a government-wide grant review led by the Ministry of Finance. If your work relies on provincial dollars, now’s the time to read the mandate letters for your ministries – and get a sense of where the goalposts may be moving. The review criteria have not been released. We suggest proactively connecting with your ministry and provincial funding contacts for more information and to stay up to date on the review process.  

Social equity is largely out of the conversation. Beyond an explicit directive to roll back ‘DEI ideology’ in hiring, mentions of equity, inclusion, or affordability supports are largely absent, and approaches to Truth and Reconciliation have shifted. Nonprofits can expect more demand to support local, equity-deserving communities where gaps in service arise. There's an opportunity to reframe DEI messaging by showing that your work in equity is economic development by driving stronger labour markets, safer communities, and innovation.

A recurring phrase across the letters - ‘all legal means necessary’ - sets the tone for Alberta’s relationship with Canada. Unlike the more collaborative attitude in 2023, the 2025 letters pointedly defend Alberta’s authority over energy, immigration, agriculture, trade, and federal-provincial agreements. Track legislative changes closely to determine if they intersect with your mission and consider whether the shift towards provincial autonomy affects relationships and/or protocols with municipal, provincial and federal partners.   

With an economy-first agenda that prioritizes Alberta autonomy, nonprofits relying on any level of government funding should assess their funding relationships and review how they frame their mission. Those that rely on provincial funding will benefit from showing how their work aligns with government priorities, like red-tape reduction, economic development and cross-ministry collaboration. The rules of engagement are shifting – and adapting early will give nonprofits a better position to navigate what comes next.

For a deeper dive into the influence of mandate letters on health, affordability, energy and more, click here!