The latest publication from the Charity Insights Canada Project (CICP), High Demand and Constrained Capacity in Canada’s Charitable Sector, showcases data that provides insights into the current state of the sector. With demand for services soaring, charities are constrained and struggling to deliver valuable services and programs to Canadians. According to the CICP, without structural intervention and policy reforms, the charitable sector’s ability to reliably deliver critical services to those in need is at risk.
Key Research Findings
- Service demand surged during the pandemic and has continued to climb. In 2023, 66% of charities reported that they had seen an increase in demand for their services in recent years (CICP 1.07.30).
- By 2025, 75% of charities reported higher demand compared to the previous fiscal year, with 34% experiencing increases of up to 25%, and 30% reporting increases of 26–50% (CICP 3.06.18).
- In both 2024 and 2025, more than 70% of charities said demand for services exceeded their capacity (72% in 2024; 73% in 2025). Nearly one-third in each year reported that demand was much higher than what they could provide (CICP 2.05.19; 3.06.18).
For additional findings and key takeaways, access the new briefing document here.
