Calgary is taking a major step forward in addressing its housing crisis with a $30.7 million investment through its Housing Capital Initiative (HCI). The funding will support the creation of around 480 non-market homes, offering a range of unit sizes — from studio apartments to three-bedroom homes — spread across various communities in the city.
“With an estimated investment of $30.7M in this round, the Housing Capital Initiative (HCI) will support the delivery of approximately 480 non-market homes for Calgarians comprising a range of project types,” the City of Calgary stated in a news release.
These developments are designed to meet the needs of diverse populations, including seniors, families and Indigenous people. The initiative is part of the city’s broader strategy to make housing more accessible to those most in need.
A citywide effort to address urgent housing needs
Mayor Jyoti Gondek underlined the city’s commitment to taking immediate action to relieve the housing crunch during a press conference. “City Council made a clear commitment to address Calgary’s housing crisis, and this investment is one of the many actions we’re taking to deliver on that promise,” she said. “The Housing Capital Initiative will bring real results to Calgarians who need housing now — not years from now.”
The grant will be distributed across multiple housing providers and non-profit organizations, many of whom already have shovel-ready projects. The aim is to minimize delays and get people into homes faster, especially as the demand for affordable housing continues to surge.
Fast, factory-built housing aims to accelerate delivery
One of the most innovative projects funded under Calgary’s Housing Capital Initiative is the six-storey Attainable Homes Calgary development planned for the downtown core. As reported by CTV News, the project will include 84 prefabricated modular housing units manufactured at the ATCO facility in Calgary — a method that significantly reduces construction time and cost.
“Construction happens on an assembly line and it happens extremely fast. It takes 21 days to build a complete module from first nail to installed appliances. All 84 homes will be done in 69 days. The modules will then be shipped and stacked this July,” Jaydan Tait, president and CEO of Attainable Homes Calgary, told CTV.
Modular housing, once considered a niche approach, is increasingly seen as a scalable solution to urban housing shortages. The speed and efficiency of this model not only reduce labour costs and weather-related delays but also allow families in need to move into homes much sooner. With the ATCO facility located in the same city, the logistics are streamlined, creating a local loop of investment, employment and housing delivery that benefits the broader Calgary economy.
How Calgary’s housing plan could ease the squeeze on your wallet
From a financial standpoint, this initiative can be a game-changer for low- and moderate-income Calgarians. With housing costs consuming an increasing share of household budgets, non-market housing provides crucial relief, allowing individuals and families to allocate more resources to food, transportation, healthcare, and savings.
Affordable housing also contributes to overall economic stability. By helping people live closer to work and school, it reduces commuting costs and opens up opportunities for employment and education, which are key pillars of long-term financial well-being.
This city-led investment isn’t just about constructing buildings — it’s about building a more equitable, financially resilient future for Calgary residents.
Sources
1. CTV News: Seven affordable housing projects coming to Calgary amid housing crisis (May 12, 2025)
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
