Calgary Transit launches naming rights sponsorship opportunity for Free Fare Zone

Calgary Transit has launched an opportunity for organizations to explore naming rights sponsorship of the downtown Free Fare Zone.

The Free Fare Zone is an important part of downtown mobility, connecting customers, visitors and workers between Downtown West/Kerby and City Hall/Bow Valley College stations. Currently, customers can travel within the zone without paying a transit fare.

This initiative will help Calgary Transit assess market interest in a naming rights partnership that could generate non-fare revenue while providing a sponsor with a prominent presence along the 7 Avenue transit corridor. The sponsorship would not affect the availability of fare-free service within the Free Fare Zone.

"Calgary Transit is exploring whether there is interest in a naming rights partnership that creates value for both Calgary Transit and a future sponsor," says Sharon Fleming, Director of Calgary Transit. "This process will help us better understand what opportunities may exist while continuing to support the important role the Free Fare Zone plays in downtown mobility."

The initiative follows direction from Council to explore sponsorship opportunities for the Free Fare Zone as part of broader efforts to identify potential non-fare revenue sources. 

"I heard from residents and businesses that the downtown Free Fare Zone is a service that Calgarians want to see maintained. I advocated for continuing the search for a corporate sponsor to secure its long-term viability, offering local businesses a direct way to invest in Calgary's growth, tourism and event economy," said Ward 1 Councillor Kim Tyers.

Interested organizations can learn more about the opportunity beginning Sept. 3 through mid-October 2026. The results will help determine whether a naming rights sponsorship is viable and the value it could provide for both Calgary Transit and Calgarians. 

Learn more about the opportunity here.