Photo from Kenjgewin Teg community event where Jennifer Brennan, Senior Director, Canada Programs, joined on the day of the announcement
“We are proud to support the outstanding work of Indigenous institutions and universities that are transforming the lives of young Indigenous people. This game-changing work is rooted in reconciliation from improved healthcare services in communities to innovative businesses that are providing clean energy, cultural programs that are revitalizing Indigenous languages, and young people who are graduating as health, technology and land stewardship leaders.”
— Reeta Roy, President and CEO, Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation is thrilled to announce $235 million in funding to 30 post-secondary institutions and national Indigenous-led organizations in recognition of their achievements and impact in education for Indigenous youth across Canada.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) highlighted education as a critical path forward towards reconciliation. Marking a decade of work under the TRC, this funding highlights the leadership and positive outcomes of these 30 organizations. Funding will enable them to strengthen and scale programs ranging from trades to technology and from health care to engineering, and the numbers of Indigenous youth in these programs will be doubled over the next ten years.
Since 2017, the Mastercard Foundation through its EleV Program has been working closely with partners across Canada to transform education and access to employment opportunities for Indigenous youth. This new commitment deepens the impact of the EleV Program, which to date has supported more than 65,000 young Indigenous people through education, entrepreneurship and leadership development.
As the fastest-growing demographic in Canada, investing in Indigenous youth education now and into the future benefits the entire country. In the years ahead, a national network of leading organizations will share knowledge, amplify impact, and accelerate change in post-secondary education based on the visions, values and aspirations of Indigenous youth and communities.
Why It Matters:
Working in support of self-determination and integrating Indigenous knowledges and cultures, these institutions equip Indigenous young people with the skills they need to thrive
This funding will enable these organizations to ensure growth and stability of their efforts in Indigenous education, supporting thousands of young people over the next 10 years
Supporting organizations that are transforming education for Indigenous youth strengthens communities and advances our shared future
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About the Mastercard Foundation
The Mastercard Foundation is a Canadian Foundation and one of the world's largest foundations, with a mission to advance education and financial inclusion. It works with visionary organizations to enable young people in Africa and in Indigenous communities in Canada to access dignified and fulfilling work. The Foundation was established in 2006 through the generosity of Mastercard when it became a public company. The Foundation is an independent organization and separate from the company. Its policies, operations and programs are determined by the Foundation's Board of Directors and leadership. For more information please visit mastercardfdn.org.
