IRF Project Collections
Projects Supported by the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund
(New projects added every month)
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund supports initiatives that address the historical trauma, intergenerational impacts and systemic injustices faced by Indigenous people.
Grants are provided for programs and projects that promote emotional, mental and physical healing for communities and families, ultimately contributing to a path of reconciliation and restoration of
well-being.
Healing and Cultural Connection at Mashkwa Healing Garden
Like other Indigenous Peoples, the Métis have endured colonial policies aimed at severing cultural ties and displacing them from the land. This disconnection has contributed to intergenerational trauma and a decline in well-being for over 8,000 Métis individuals and their families. For many, access to their traditional culture or a sense of belonging has been limited to services run through urban organizations or community groups.
We Heal Together
The legacy of the residential school system has left deep scars on Indigenous Peoples across Canada. Survivors were forever changed by the treatment they endured, and families and communities who lost children to the system were never the same. Although the last residential school closed in 1997, many who were forced to attend are still with us today.
Preserving and revitalizing Indigenous cultures and languages allows Indigenous communities to reconnect with their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Through grants provided for language revitalization programs, traditional arts and crafts or cultural education initiatives, Indigenous traditions and identities are celebrated and can be passed down to future generations.
Learning Ribbon Garment Crafting in Thunder Bay
For Indigenous Peoples, traditional regalia holds deep cultural significance. Whether worn at family gatherings, communal events, or ceremonies like Pow Wows, these garments are expressions of identity, pride, and ancestry. Ribbon dresses, shirts, and skirts are particularly iconic in First Nation and Métis cultures, often personalized with meaningful colors and designs. While these garments are widely recognized, the traditional knowledge of how to craft them is at risk of being forgotten.
Reviving Tradition Through Song and Performance in Akwesasne
Indigenous activism is growing, and young leaders in First Nations communities are stepping up to ensure the next generation carries forward traditional practices and cultural celebrations. The Mohawks of Akwesasne are among those championing efforts to bring back Akwesasronon culture and language, starting with their youngest members in the classroom. However, the community currently doesn’t have youth groups dedicated to preserving traditional Mohawk social and ceremonial singing or teaching culture through performance and drama.
Education and community building are key drivers of reconciliation efforts. Funds provided for educational programs, workshops and community-building activities can help bridge knowledge gaps, strengthen ties between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and promote a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, experiences and knowledge.
Intercultural Grandmothers Uniting
For many older newcomers to Canada, understanding Indigenous histories and cultures can be challenging. A lack of knowledge often fosters misconceptions and untruths that can lead to racism and mistreatment of Indigenous peoples. For over 10 years, Intercultural Grandmothers Uniting (IGU) in Regina, Saskatchewan, has been working to change this.
Bonnechere Algonquin First Nation Cultural Centre
Culture is about community, and building a sense of connection comes from sharing traditions, activities, and heritage in meaningful ways. To bring these opportunities to Indigenous and non-Indigenous People in the region, Bonnechere Algonquin First Nation in Ontario is partnering with the Town of Renfrew to establish the Bonnechere Algonquin First Nation Cultural Centre (BAFNCC) as an expansion of the Ma-Te-Way Activity Centre.
Grants are available to support programs, gatherings and events that facilitate the reconnection with and celebration of Indigenous spirituality and cultural practices.
These initiatives are an opportunity to foster awareness and appreciation of Indigenous worldviews, values and spiritual beliefs and contribute to a more inclusive society where Indigenous voices and traditions are honored and respected.
