Relèven Transition Fund, powered by otipêy
The Relèven Transition Fund powered by Otipêy ($30M) invests in the transition of faith-based properties to new community uses such as affordable housing, community hubs, or mixed-use developments.
A partnership between Otipêy and Relèven.
ABOUT THE FUND
Across Canada, faith communities own churches, convents, schools and residences that are used less and less. These buildings could become housing, community services and cultural spaces.
Giving a building a new purpose takes time and money. Communities often don't have the early capital to buy a property, plan its future and line up long-term financing. Without that support, many of these opportunities are lost.
That's why Relèven and Otipêy have partnered: Relèven brings experience helping communities plan the future of their properties, and Otipêy brings Indigenous-led fund management grounded in stewardship and long-term value.
Learn more about Relèven here.
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HOW IT WORKS
Relèven works with faith communities, community organizations and development partners to find properties that are well suited to a new use.
The Fund provides flexible, secured loans for the early stages: buying the property, planning, approvals and eligible holding costs. The loan is repaid once permanent financing is in place, the property is refinanced or another agreed exit is reached. That money is then reinvested in the next project.
Otipêy manages the Fund, bringing Indigenous perspectives on stewardship, accountability and long-term value. Each investment is meant to benefit communities, investors and the lands where these properties are located.
Fund manager
Strategic partner
Geographic focus
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Preferred return
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Eligible uses
Minimum commitment
Planned first close
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Portfolio
West Hill United unlocked property equity while supporting youth programming in Scarborough.
St. Mary’s Road United is reimagined its site through mixed-use housing, community programs, and a development partnership.
St. Jax reopened its historic Montreal church as a shared space for worship, arts, refugee support, and community programs.
Preston Commons transformed underused church space into a shared community hub, nearly doubling rental income year-over-year.
Gethsemane Lutheran Church is planning a shared community hub to activate underused space and strengthen its downtown Seattle mission.
Collier Street United is exploring a community hub and rental housing to renew its downtown Barrie site and support long-term sustainability.
Join us in the transition
