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Overview
The Regional Services Support Fund helps ensure that all regions, regardless of differences in local fiscal capacity, can deliver mandated services, advance regional priorities and maintain minimum service standards across New Brunswick.
Each Regional Service Commission receives an annual fund allocation, determined through a funding formula that considers factors such as population-to-tax-base ratios relative to the provincial average. This approach helps ensure funding is distributed in a way that reflects regional capacity and need.
Key features of the funding include:
- funds may cover up to 50% of total eligible costs for activities aligned with the regional strategy
- commissions must provide matching funding equal to 50% of total cost of activities as presented in their investment plan
- matching funds may be applied across multiple initiatives, providing flexibility in planning and delivery
- projects may be multi-year, supporting longer-term regional initiatives
Funding supports member contributions by providing stability and flexibility, allowing commissions to advance regionally significant initiatives that would be difficult to support through members contributions alone.
Eligible activities may include:
- regional economic development, tourism, transportation and community development
- initiatives addressing social well-being, such as homelessness, poverty reduction and mental health coordination
- activities or recommendations from the Public Safety Committee or Sport, Recreation and Cultural Infrastructure Committee
- up to 25% of a commissions allocation to offset regional infrastructure cost-sharing
- collaborative service delivery improvements (e.g., solid waste or planning services)
- research, studies or engagement activities that support regional priorities
Commissions can use member contributions, reserve funds, partner departments, federal programs or other funding options for their 50% share. They must ensure no conflicts or dependency issues arise when applying for funds from other agencies or departments.
Application, evaluation and reporting
Each year, the Department of Environment and Local Government notifies commissions of their annual allocation and provides application materials and guidance.
Application requirements
Applications must demonstrate alignment with the regional strategy and include:
- a description of the proposed project or activity
- the requested funding amount and duration
- budget details and other confirmed or proposed funding sources
- signatures of the Chair and Chief Executive Officer
Evaluation criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
- alignment with regional strategy objectives
- demonstrated regional or inter-community benefits
- avoidance of duplication with other provincial or federal programs
- evidence of financial contributions from other sources
Reporting and payments
Regional Service Commissions are required to report annually to the minister on:
- activities and projects funded through the Regional Services Support Fund
- outcomes achieved and measurable benefits
- associated expenditures
- performance of funded activities
Payments are typically issued on a quarterly basis and unspent funds may be carried forward for up to three years, after which remaining balances return to the general Regional Services Support Fund.