Religious and Faith-Based Charities – Portrait and Finances in Canada

Justification of research project

This project aims to produce a financial and organizational portrait of religious and faith-based charities in Canada, which account for nearly 38% of all registered charities (over 32,000). Using CRA data and religious categories (e.g., Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Jewish), the research will map out key characteristics and sectoral distinctions. The project will generate a series of Research Notes, including provincial PARG reports and a national PhiLab synthesis, similar to prior research on sports-related foundations. This work will advance the ongoing scholarship of Brouard & Litalien and contribute to a deeper understanding of the economic, social, and symbolic significance of religion in Canada’s philanthropic sector.

Research question

What is the financial and organizational portrait of religious and faith-based charities in Canada, and what sectoral trends can be identified?

Research purpose

To analyze the financial, fiscal, and structural characteristics of registered religious and faith-based charities in Canada, using CRA data and faith-based classifications, in order to better understand their role in the national philanthropic landscape.

Research approach

Phase 1 – Descriptive Analysis (in progress)
• Data collection and cleaning of ARC data (religion-oriented charities)
• Categorization by denomination and province
• Production of PARG reports by religion

Phase 2 – National Synthesis (upcoming)
• Integration of provincial reports into a PhiLab national synthesis
• Publication of a comprehensive research note
• Dissemination to the academic network and partners