IRF Project Collections

Projects Supported by the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund

(New projects added every month)

Pillar One

Healing and Reconciliation for Communities and Families

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.

  • Changing the Outlook

    Childhood can feel eternal, but as those easy summers fade, the daunting reality of becoming an adult and the responsibility to make good decisions can feel overwhelming. For many Indigenous youth, especially those in urban centres, social and economic challenges create barriers when seeking better futures.

  • A Tribute to Resilience

    There is a historical reckoning happening in Canada, reflecting on how Indigenous Peoples have been treated and unmasking the truth of the residential school system. These efforts have primarily been driven by survivors sharing deeply personal stories of trauma and resilience, leading to frank discussion and educating individuals about the truth of Canada’s history.

Pillar Two

Culture and Language Revitalization

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.

  • The Visiting Way

    The path to reconciliation begins with overcoming the physical and social barriers created by colonial institutions and the cultural erasure efforts that many Indigenous Peoples face living in remote areas.

  • Reconnection and Love

    Creating safe, supportive spaces for Indigenous Peoples requires a thoughtful approach, with an understanding of the challenges and struggles that have led to spiritual disconnection. This can be done using traditional healing elements, Indigenous worldviews, and education about how systemic institutions have inflicted trauma on Indigenous Peoples for generations.

Pillar Three

Education and Community Building

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.

  • Proudly Métis

    In 1885, groups of Métis rose up against the Canadian government over settler encroachment on their lands and increasing erasure of First Nation and Métis rights. A five-month rebellion began, known as the North-West Resistance, which ultimately culminated in a defeat with settlers gaining a firm hold over western Canada.

  • Gatherings Are Our Ceremony

    For Métis individuals, finding a path that ties together their unique cultural identity and supports intergenerational healing can be difficult. Many communities lack appropriate programming, leading to a loss of belonging and connection with the community. There is a need for educational programming that not only shares Métis history, teachings and traditions, but engages individuals in activities in a thoughtful and safe manner.

Pillar Four

Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture

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.

  • Creating Community

    cross the vast North, Inuit communities face challenges specific to remote living, while simultaneously dealing with issues common for many Indigenous Peoples. From high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder to intergenerational trauma stemming from the 15 Collective Traumas experienced by every Inuit family, many are forced into leaving their homes and relocating south in search of a better life.

  • Peaceful Waters

    Large gatherings are a vital part of life for Indigenous Peoples to celebrate their traditions and foster strong relationships. Yet, for generations these gatherings were outlawed by colonial policies. Today, the need for culturally grounded spaces where Indigenous Peoples can heal from the impacts of colonization and the residential school system is more critical than ever before.