RBC is providing grants of $10,000-$30,000 to nine National Sport Organizations that have been hard hit financially by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The organizations include Canoe Kayak Canada, Rowing Canada, Rugby Canada, Cycling Canada, Freestyle Ski Canada, Speed Skating Canada, Ski Jump Canada, Nordic Combined Canada and Boxing Canada.

Tests Olympic potential

These organizations all participate in RBC Training Ground, which tests and identifies athletes with Olympic potential, ultimately nominating them for funding and the opportunity to join their National Team programs.

"Due to the global pandemic, we've had to pause on identifying new athletes with Olympic potential through RBC Training Ground events, but what's not on pause is our investment in Canada's Olympic future," said Mary DePaoli, executive vice-president and chief marketing officer, RBC.

Essential for athletes to receive funding

"This is most certainly a unique year, but we know it's more important than ever to help ensure RBC Future Olympians and Next Generation athletes under the care of our NSO partners continue to receive the funding support that will further their athletic development."

This season the RBC Training Ground would have culminated with a national final and 30 athletes being selected to receive further resources to pursue their Olympic dreams. Some of the athletes identified through RBC Training Ground are on track to compete at the Tokyo Games.