Canadians invited to vote for the future of heritage buildings as Ecclesiastical supports the Next Great Save

TORONTO, ON, APRIL 8, 2026/insPRESS/ – Canada’s heritage and historically significant buildings are facing increasing pressure from aging infrastructure, climate risk, and adaptive reuse demands. In response, Ecclesiastical Insurance is reinforcing its role as a specialist partner through its support of the National Trust for Canada’s Next Great Save competition.

Now in its fourth year, the Next Great Save provides a $50,000 grant, funded by Ecclesiastical, to support the conservation, retrofit, or adaptive reuse of a historic place. The initiative not only drives public engagement through a national voting campaign but also highlights the growing need for tailored risk management solutions for heritage assets.

Heritage properties present a distinct risk profile compared to standard commercial buildings, often involving unique materials, specialized restoration requirements, and regulatory constraints. As a result, they require underwriting expertise and long-term stewardship strategies that extend beyond conventional insurance approaches.

“Over the past four years, the Next Great Save has shown what’s possible when communities take the lead in shaping the future of their heritage places,” said David Huebel, President, Ecclesiastical Insurance. “We’re proud to continue supporting an initiative that not only preserves historic sites but helps reimagine how they can serve communities for generations to come.”

Ecclesiastical has more than 50 years of experience insuring heritage, cultural, and community assets, with underwriting and risk control expertise tailored specifically to historic buildings. This includes considerations such as restoration costs, bespoke materials, fire protection challenges, and evolving climate exposures.

For brokers and property owners operating in this space, initiatives like Next Great Save serve as a barometer of emerging trends in adaptive reuse, demonstrating how heritage sites are being repositioned as community hubs, mixed-use spaces, and resilient assets.

Voting is now open, offering Canadians the opportunity to support projects that will shape the next chapter of the country’s built heritage.

For more information about the competition or to cast your vote, visit: nationaltrustcanada.ca/what-you-can-do/nextgreatsave

About Ecclesiastical Insurance:

Ecclesiastical Insurance Office plc is a specialist commercial insurance company and a proud member of the Benefact Group. We are deeply committed to protecting the organizations that enrich the lives of others, preserving Canada’s distinct communities, cultures, and history, and supporting initiatives that improve the lives of people in need.

Media Contact:

Colin Robertson
Chief Experience Officer
Ecclesiastical Insurance
Phone: 1 416 484 3984
Email: crobertson@ecclesiastical.ca