In the early 1990s, a restructuring of the health services system of Alberta (Canada) amalgamated public health units and hospital districts into 17 Regional Health Authorities. Many of the regions have pursued community grant initiatives in addition to their regular funding, and it seemed that there would be value in comparing the experiences of different regions to share lessons, identify successful processes, and note some of the likely outcomes of such initiatives. Four regions committed to this study. In all four regions, the majority of projects were focused on lifestyle and behavior choices, personal coping skills, and social support. Most of the programs could be characterized as health education or awareness, and none appeared to be primarily concerned with political action or policy advocacy. The nature of the application and funding processes developed in the regions varied so much that systematic comparison is difficult. Two aspects were chosen for comparison: decision-making and training and support. Different types of outcome evaluations were required in the regions, but in general the evaluations could be grouped into studies of impacts on health, increases in the ability of the community to address health concerns, and increases in partnerships and collaboration. The differing approaches make it difficult to say anything about best practices, but it is apparent that the regions continue to engage in a community granting process in one form or another. (Contains 11 references.) (SLD)