The Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC) congratulates the Black Ideas Grant (B.I.G.): Bridge and Build 2023/24 Recipients!
B.I.G. CORE STREAM RECIPIENTS
Akwa-Ibom & Cross River State Community Association of Canada Toronto
Akwa-Ibom and Cross River State Community Association of Canada aims to expand community development programming for community members through workshops, events, and networking opportunities. Through a series of cultural and community programming, AICRSCAC plans to share their roots and cultural identities, stories, and history.
Association De La Communauté Noire De L’ouest De L’île
The West Island Black Community Association(WIBCA) is a volunteer-run, registered charity that is dedicated to serving the English-speaking Black community of the West Island and the surrounding areas. Their organization works to support Black communities in Canada by offering free educational programming, services, and support tailored to meet the diverse needs of Black youth, adults, and seniors of the community. Since their humble beginnings in 1982, they have uplifted the lives of countless people with their free, impactful, and diverse programs run out of the community centre located in Roxboro, Quebec. Programs and services target 3 segments of the West Island Black community: women/non-binary, children/youth, and seniors. Current programs and services include: Black Girls Gather: A Book Club, Legal Clinic, Maasai Boys Mentoring Group, Youth Robotics Team, Saturday morning tutorials, scholarship program, Senior Fit, Senior Surf, youth and mentoring.
WIBCA’s programmatic approach can be described as “for us, by us”, Black-centred, accessible, intersectional, intergenerational, and inclusive. WIBCA’s longevity in the community is due to its dedicated volunteers and its ability to adjust to the needs of its constituents.
Black In Nature
Black In Nature uses play-based, emergent curriculum, and inquiry-based learning models to offer forest and nature school programming led by Black facilitators. Utilizing a decolonized approach, Black in Nature Inc. focuses on addressing the unique needs and experiences of Black children. Acknowledging that early childhood and educational environments can be spaces where Black children face racism, have limited outdoor opportunities, and feel disconnect from the land, the Black in Nature project aims to challenge these barriers.
Black in Nature Inc. cultivates a sense of belonging and empowerment for Black children in outdoor settings. As the first BIPOC forest school program in Canada, it enables the youngest members of Ottawa’s Black community to develop relationships with the land, fellow children, and facilitators who reflect their own identities.
Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan
The Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan (BPES) is dedicated to supporting and empowering Black communities in Saskatchewan. Their mission is to celebrate, recognize, and motivate Black professionals and entrepreneurs while transforming their communities. The Black Ideas Grant aims to provide BPES with the financial resources necessary to implement and sustain its programs and initiatives. By providing financial stability and strategic leadership, the organization can create a supportive ecosystem that empowers Black professionals and entrepreneurs, fosters business growth ,and contributes to the economic prosperity of Saskatchewan.
Blackhurst Cultural Centre
Blackhurst Culture Centre is a hub and destination that provides opportunities to experience the rich culture and history of Canadians of African and Caribbean ancestry. Blackhurst strives to strengthen the organizational capacity of the Centre through various strategies, including enhancing facility operations, retaining skilled staff, improving skills development, capitalizing on partnership opportunities, and enhancing both existing and upcoming programs. These programs encompass affordable educational initiatives, youth mentorship programs, hosting workshops and events, and conducting historical walking tours.
Burundian Bridge International-Canada
Burundian Bridge International-Canada Inc. is dedicated to serving as a comprehensive platform for the socio-economic development of Burundians, operating in both Canada and Burundi. The Empowerment Through Education, Bridging the Gap initiative provides tailored educational modules, community engagement events, and skill-building workshops, this initiative aims to foster a stronger sense of belonging, identity, and empowerment among Burundian Canadians and broader Black communities.
The Empowerment Through Education, Bridging the Gap initiative offers customized educational modules, community engagement events, and skill-building workshops. Its goal is to cultivate a greater sense of belonging, identity, and empowerment within the Burundian Canadian community and the wider Black communities. Overall, this initiative’s focus on education, empowerment, and social integration directly aligns to improve social outcomes for Burundian Canadians and broader Black communities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Cameroon Youth Association Calgary
The Cameroon Youth Association Calgary supports Black communities in Calgary by serving as a cultural bridge, celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of Cameroon within the diverse fabric of Calgary.
As individuals of West African descent, CYAC members bring forth a wealth of diversity, talents, and potential, aiming to create a safe and supportive space for Calgary youths of Cameroonian origin. Through leadership development, mentorship, and advocacy, the Cameroon Youth Association seeks to dismantle stereotypes and contribute to a more equitable society.
Canadian Association of Black Journalists
For nearly 30 years, the Canadian Association of Black Journalists (CABJ) has been the only voice fighting against anti-Black racism in Canadian newsrooms. They have seen that the absence of the CABJ’s voice from this conversation has hurt representation, newsroom culture, and inclusion in Canadian media. The Canadian Association of Black Journalists will use the funding from the Black Ideas Grant for operational and capacity building.
Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton
The Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton is enhancing its staff capacity to broaden CCAH’s culturally sensitive programming and meet the changing needs of the community. Building upon established initiatives ensures that CCAH preserves its solid foundation while adapting to emerging challenges. The appointment of a full-time Executive Director is a strategic move by CCAH to address gaps and fulfill needs in current service delivery. An Executive Director plays a pivotal role in the successes of CCAH and the community development programming for the Canadian Caribbean community in Halton.
Centre Communautaire Vie Transformée
Since the organization was founded, its volunteers have been working with clients facing difficulties such as unemployment, low family income, and the inability to meet basic needs (housing, childcare, transportation, etc.). Events are carried out to break the isolation of newcomers and enable them to experience a new country. Several measures will be prioritized, such as the implementation of an action plan to identify the measures to be carried out (training, dissemination of information, discussions, awareness campaigns, forums, etc.). Discussion groups with other organizations are also planned.
COMPAGNIE THÉÂTRE CRÉOLE
The project contributes to the fight against racism for families from Black communities by reducing the systemic racism Black artists are faced with in regards to the professionalism of their work. Many families feel left out of cultural productions because they are not represented in mainstream media, be it TV, radio, movies or theatre. Within the context of this project, the organization will seek out Black artists to introduce them to their communities in order to reawaken this sense of belonging and to eradicate the systemic barriers that prevent families from experiencing Afro-descendant culture. It also want to improve economic outcomes in the communities by enabling these Black artists to make a living from their art, to obtain paid contracts, and to reinvest in their work, creating wealth for Black artists and Black-owned art businesses. The organization wants to improve social outcomes by allowing Black communities to recharge their cultural batteries while appreciating the culture of their host country. By not feeling left out, people can bolster their confidence and open the door to discovering others.
CONGO EINDOKI ASSOCIATION
Congo Eindoki Association is a nonprofit organization that supports Black Congolese community members who integrate into Canada. Many Congo Eindoki Association members are former refugees and face socio-economic barriers in Edmonton.
Through the Massive Awareness and Integration Program, the Congo Eindoki Association will provide financial workshops tailored for both adults and young people. Participants will acquire essential knowledge about the financial sector, including credit card management, loan applications, mortgages, and insurance. Social empowerment is a central focus as shared knowledge holds a significant impact. Congo Eindoki believes that providing the community with these skills will unlock opportunities for economic growth and empower individuals within the community.
Découvertes Karanta
By pairing a young Black immigrant with a Black “coach”, this program helps newcomers integrate more effectively and enables them to contribute to the host society in a positive way. This initiative makes it easier for newcomers to adjust to the realities of their new country and allows them to create closer ties with others, hence contributing to the fight against racist prejudice at the source. The organization firmly believes that if the perceived social distance between a Black immigrant and the Canadian population as a whole is reduced, our society will benefit from greater social cohesion. The better we know each other, the greater our ability to appreciate our similarities. By using the mentor as a familiar social anchor, DK’s flagship program contributes positively to social and economic opportunities for these Black newcomers by promoting their social inclusion. Several studies have shown that a racialized immigrant who can count on a strong social support network is more likely to integrate into the social and economic fabric of their host society.
Dernière
The organization’s services aim at improving the psychosocial and economic health of Afro-Canadians. This is a segment of the population that still considers death taboo, doesn’t like to talk about it, and consequently doesn’t prepare for it. When a death occurs, it has a significant impact on the surviving family members. Our organization not only supports bereaved families, but also raises awareness among families who have not yet lost a loved-one surrounding the importance of protecting themselves and reducing the impact of these natural departures through insurance, funeral arrangements, savings, wills, etc.
Doug Hudlin Charitable Society
Doug Hudlin, the “Gentleman Umpire,” was a founding director of the BC Black History Awareness Society and the grandson of Nancy and Charles Alexander, the earliest Black settlers in BC who arrived in Victoria in 1858.
The mission of the Doug Hudlin Charitable Society is to eliminate barriers to equal participation and inclusion in organized sports and recreation for individuals from racial and ethnic communities. Additionally, the Society aims to aid children residing in low-income areas, ensuring their access to and inclusion in organized sports and recreation. Furthermore, it seeks to educate them about the experiences of individuals in the sports and recreational fields, such as Doug Hudlin.
The Society works with sports programs and parks to ensure that youth from the Black community have access, are welcome, and are included in organized sports.
Dufferin County Canadian Black Association
The Dufferin County Canadian Black Association aims to provide leadership for the continued development and enhancement of the Black community through civic engagement, education, programs, and services. DCCBA also advocates for equity and the wellbeing of the Black community in Dufferin County.
The Walk Tall and Proud program is dedicated to enhancing the knowledge, skills, abilities, and attitudes of community members. By enhancing existing skills, individuals will be prepared to identify racism and hateful conduct, employing the necessary tools and attitudes to confront such inappropriate behavior.
A seasoned consultant with strong ties to the Black community will be enlisted to develop and deliver the program. This consultant will employ a thorough methodology, involving in-depth research, comprehensive reviews, and meaningful stakeholder consultations to ensure the program is not only impactful, but culturally sensitive and reflective of the community’s essential needs.
Eritrean Community Association
The Eritrean Community Association in Vancouver is dedicated to celebrating and safeguarding Eritrean heritage and history within Canada, while also nurturing a culturally and socially engaged Eritrean community in the Greater Vancouver area. Spearheaded by the Association, this initiative seeks to enhance economic prospects by facilitating economic development projects, fostering entrepreneurship, and offering workforce training programs. These efforts aim to provide access to capital, job opportunities, and resources for skill development. Ultimately, the initiative aims to empower Black individuals to attain greater financial stability, upward mobility, and long-term economic security.
Ethiopian Society of Winnipeg
The Ethiopian Society of Winnipeg Inc. (ESW) is a local non-profit organization supporting Ethiopian immigrants in Manitoba. By providing employment training, youth programing, and immigration support, ESW is reducing barriers that Ethiopian community members face.
The ESW strives to provide a secure environment where youth can study and cultivate positive connections between Black communities and the criminal justice system. It offers expanded educational programming, workshops, seminars, and speakers to reduce barriers to employment for youth, new first-generation immigrants, refugees, or newcomers. Additionally, it offers leadership and workplace skills training, along with educational resources and recreational reading areas.
Fondation des médecins Canado-Haïtiens
The initiative seeks to actively promote equality and social justice. It acts as a protective shield and offers essential support and resources to those facing barriers because of their ethnicity. The project also plays a crucial role in improving social outcomes by focusing its efforts on a socially marginalized population. It works to strengthen social ties, foster inclusion, and promote an equitable environment. Through its inclusive, barrier-breaking approach, it contributes to improving economic outcomes by offering educational and economic opportunities to a population often left on the margins of society. By investing in education, it opens doors to financial independence and economic strength. In short, the initiative makes a significant contribution to the fight against Black racism, while making essential strides to improve social and economic outcomes by focusing its efforts on a population that is systemically discriminated against and socially marginalized.
Fondation Maman, bb
The goal of the organization’s Réseau Dynamique et Services Innovants Maman, BB & Co. initiative is to recruit staff and focus on Black suppliers to establish its organizational and operational structure. This mission is perfectly aligned with improving economic outcomes for the Black community. The organization’s approach contributes directly to the fight against economic racism towards Black people by creating employment and partnership opportunities within this community. By hiring Black staff, the Foundation not only reinforces its commitment to Black empowerment, but also ensures that the organization’s strategies and operations genuinely reflect the needs and perspectives of the Black community. These employees will play a key role in establishing effective Web structures and platforms that are needed to introduce and manage programs. In addition, by choosing to work with Black suppliers, the Foundation actively supports the Black economy and encourages the development of Black-owned businesses, thus creating an economic ecosystem where Black entrepreneurs and professionals can benefit from new opportunities for growth and visibility. This initiative, while meeting basic operational needs, demonstrates a concrete commitment to the economic and professional empowerment of the Black community.
FOUNDATION FOR OROMIAN CULTURE EDUCATION AND ARTS SERVICES (FOCAS)
FOCAS Canada currently runs initiatives such as the following: tutoring and mentoring for school children and youth; newcomer women’s English language classes; food hamper programming for more than 320 families; sponsorship and resettlement supports; newcomer seniors’ wellbeing and social engagement support, helping them age in place with dignity; anti racism awareness lessons, and newcomer women’s economic empowerment programming. They also offer services such as translation, resume writing, job search and placements, referring clients to designated professionals and experts, and other essential services. Their initiatives are directed towards Black socio-economic empowerment and meaningful socio-economic integration of newcomers to the Canadian system. They collaborate with the City of Edmonton and the Canadian Race Relations Foundation on combating and eliminating racism, discrimination, and system barriers in their communities, creating a just and equitable society in Canada.
Harmony Cultural Village
Harmony Cultural Village aims to provide community members with immigrant services, community centre programs, employment and training, and literacy programs. The Improving Community Access initiative will increase the organization’s capacity, build stronger leadership, increase training for board and staff members, and enhance collaboration efforts.
INSTITUT NÉOQUÉBEC
A podcast featuring traditional ancestral instruments is an excellent way of fighting racism against Black people. By highlighting this group’s cultural wealth, “Soir au village” helps counter the negative stereotypes often associated with Black communities. It also raises public awareness of the diversity and contribution of Black artists to the music world. By sharing stories and celebrating cultural heritage, “Soir au village” will contribute to the deconstruction of preconceived ideas and help combat discrimination. Furthermore, by digitizing its global operations, NéoQuébec is giving itself the means to broaden its impact and reach a wider audience. By using digital tools, they will reach people who might not otherwise have access to their resources. This will allow them to promote their message of inclusion and togetherness and to offer learning and sharing opportunities to everyone. Ultimately, the fight against Black racism involves giving voice and visibility to Black communities, celebrating their cultural heritage and creating spaces where their contribution is recognized and appreciated.
International Afro Society
IAS is an organization that provides programs and services within the community, empowering individuals, families, and groups to achieve, maintain, and enhance a state of physical, mental, and social well-being. The Access, Equity, and Capacity Project aims to address the social outcomes for newcomer refugees, children, youth, women, and seniors in the Greater Toronto Area. IAS participants and community members gain access to alternative housing, employment, and self-employment training. IAS’s programming addresses the various socio-economic outcomes and provides necessary services for Black newcomers to settle in Canada.
Lake Loon/Cherry Brook Development Association
The Lake Loon and Cherry Brook Development Association (LLCBDA) is a community hub bridging two of the smallest historic Black communities of the Preston Township to one another. Collectively, as community-based volunteers, the Association strives to connect and enhance capacity to sustain the longevity and well-being of residents. The LLCBDA’s Health and Well-Being Program consists of health, educational, and recreational-related offerings that attest to Black cultural narrative(s) and socioeconomic lived experiences of community members. Community-led initiatives play a pivotal role and through collective action led by the communities of Lake Loon and Cherry Brook, residents will gain a sense of ownership, resilience, and pride, shaping a brighter future for generations to come while combating systemic disparities.
Learning Is For Everyone Charitable Youth Organization
The Learning Is for Everyone Youth Charitable Organization (LIFE), located in Toronto, Ontario, is dedicated to providing educational programs and support to Black youth ages 12 – 19 to promote future success. The LIFE Activities and Growth initiative provides educational incentive programs designed to help Black youth by combining their education and a passion in sports, arts, or business. Each program provides youth with mentors, industry professionals, and tutors tailored to their specific needs. The program supports youth who otherwise may not have the opportunity to explore and pursue their interest in sports, arts, business, or culture due to the overwhelming barriers around them. Youth are paired with a mentor and that mentor tailors a program around the youth’s needs. Many Black youth from low-income households do not have access to resources allowing them to explore and nurture their interests. LIFE’s programs are specifically designed to not only combat systemic barriers but to also provide youth with mentors and necessary resources needed to fill the gaps that hold Black youth back.
Manitoba Women for Women of South Sudan
The Manitoba Women for Women of South Sudan’s Black Empowerment Hub aims to address systemic issues, providing a secure space for Black women to connect, share experiences, and draw strength from unity. As a vital Hub, it addresses systemic issues, providing a secure space for Black women to connect, share experiences, and draw strength from unity. It acts as a platform for Black-led initiatives, empowering women to assume changemaking and leadership roles within their community. The initiative influences social outcomes by fostering belonging and mutual support among Black women and families. Robust programs, including initiatives for children and youth development, contribute to breaking cycles of inequality while nurturing a feeling of belonging and community among the younger generation.
Meet the Motivators
Meet the Motivators (MTM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to combating gender disparity in leadership roles and its societal impact. Focused on cultivating female leaders, particularly from communities facing various challenges, their mission is to empower women to overcome obstacles. MTM’s Resilient Woman Program is a targeted initiative for Black women addressing critical skill gaps in sales, networking, financial literacy, and business management. Through mentorship, networking activities, and community engagement, the Resilient Woman Program not only empowers individual women but also fosters a network of economically empowered women who can contribute significantly to improving economic outcomes within their communities.
Mission Entrepren’Elle
Their organization fosters a human approach that stimulates interaction and cooperation. The M3E project is a unique concept that stems from the conviction that national and international mobility combined with an educational approach can create a vehicle for Black female entrepreneurs in Quebec to perfect their skills. Mission Entrepren’Elle is creating an innovative model of social transformation by allowing Black women from precarious neighborhoods to develop leadership skills by enabling them to improve their financial health through training and access to information, and by providing them with support to enhance their income-generating ventures on an international scale. To achieve this, Mission Entrepren’Elle has established an incubator that develops a dual-dimension holistic educational method. They help applicants set up income-generating businesses and build their capacity in order for them to become agents of change and to transform their family’s living conditions. Mission Entrepren’Elle specializes in the Black ethno-cultural diversity market in Quebec and elsewhere in Canada. They offer support and advice and conduct economic exploratory missions.
Natural Kids Movement
Natural Kids Movement strives to promote the self-image of Black children and youth living in foster care to ensure they have the tools and resources to grow. The initiative plans to address the systemic disparities and injustices faced by Black children and youth within Ontario’s child welfare system by providing culturally sensitive care packages, programming, and educational workshops.
Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association
The Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association’s (NACCA) Bridging Black Futures aims to build upon the skills and leadership of the organization and community. Their work and associated programming is informed by and deeply rooted in the key principles of Kwanza, meaning ‘first fruits’ in Swahili. NACCA is focusing on improving social outcomes, while prioritizing mental health, financial education, access to food, and other necessities of life. They continue to build on creating a vibrant, more equitable, and thriving Black community.
Nigerian Canadian Teacher’s Association
The Nigerian Canadian Teacher’s association is a non-profit organization, whose goals are to provide professional support and mentoring to its members. Their mission as an organization is to build programming that reflects the voice, choice, and agency of its members centring their areas of interest and the community it serves. The Nigerian Canadian Teacher’s Association’s Fostering the Knowledge of Black Students in STEAM Program aims to address barriers experienced by Black Canadians by learning the use of technology in various areas.
Operation Black Vote Canada
Operation Black Vote Canada (OBVC) is dedicated to empowering and mobilizing Black Canadian communities to be civically engaged. OBVC’s mission is to enhance the representation and participation of Black Canadians in various aspects of civic life. Operation Black Vote Canada aims to see more Black Canadians, elect, appointed, and connected to government at all levels of government across the country. By increasing representation and capacity building, fostering collaboration, and advocating for inclusive policies, OBVC strives to increase the likelihood of addressing barriers and bringing about systemic change for Black communities. The various signature programs that operate throughout the year provide Black communities with valuable information, insights, and tools to maneuver government and the civic environments.
PAGE-RWANDA (Association Des Parents Et Amis Des Victimes Du Génocide Au Rwanda)
PAGE-RWANDA suffers from a lack of capacity in terms of human and financial resources, which severely impacts their development and capacity to achieve their objectives. Their organization is made up of volunteers, the vast majority of whom have other professional and family commitments. PAGE-RWANDA has drawn up a five-year strategic plan (2023-2028), which relies on their ability to strengthen their capacities. This initiative, which fits in very well with the theme of improving economic and social outcomes, will enable them to hire a consultant to help them develop an action plan to implement the strategic planh. The expected results will affect the overall well-being of the members of their community. It will also allow them to hire a consultant to help them develop and implement a fund-raising strategy to finance the measures set out in their strategic plan, thereby improving their economic outcomes.
Restore Somalia Foundation
The Restore Somalia Foundation (RSF) is dedicated to fostering positive change and sustainable development within Somali Canadian communities. As a non-profit organization, RSF focuses on addressing specific needs and priorities through transformative, community-led initiatives in line with Canadian values. Their multifaceted approach aims to promote peace, stability, and prosperity for Somali Canadians. RSF will host their flagship Youth Leadership Forum for the first time in Toronto. This event empowers Somali Canadian youth aged 18 to 30, while addressing key social challenges through community-driven discussions, educational workshops, and guest speaker lectures on topics such as poverty eradication, food security, education, employment, inequalities, climate change, and leadership for peacebuilding. Through leadership development, goal setting, and community engagement workshops, the forum will empower attendees to contribute to economic growth, fostering socio-economic progress and leadership within the Somali Canadian community.
Richard Preston Centre for Excellence
Richard Preston Centre for Excellence is a community hub serving African Nova Scotian communities. The centre plans to enhance the capacity of its organization by strengthening sustainability and impact. Collaborating with fundraising experts, the centre aims to design a robust revenue-generation strategy and reduce the reliance on a single funding source to ensure the continued financial health and wellbeing of the hub. By building the capacity of the organization, it serves as a cornerstone for economic empowerment for African Nova Scotian communities in the region.
SHINE Gathering Group
SHINE Gathering Group is a grassroots collective of Black women in New Brunswick building a community to learn and grow through authentic connection. SHINE curates monthly and semi-annual workshops and networking opportunities to equip Black women with employment skills and mental health resources to pursue entrepreneurial endeavours and economic wellbeing.
SoundStock Academy
SoundStock Academy (SSA) plans to grow a 2-month intensive development program for youth aged 15-29 that aims to provide Black artists and music producers with the knowledge, tools, and access to resources to help advance their music careers. SSA plans to grow the 2-month intensive course to two cohorts, covering topics such as music monetization, entertainment law, marketing, distribution, rights management, and royalty collection. Through this enhanced programming, SSA plans to support Black artists who have faced exploitative and discriminatory practices in the music industry.
Star Can Cultural Association
Star Can Cultural Association is a non-profit organization serving the residents of greater Montreal and its surrounding areas. The organization serves the Caribbean community by offering programs, support services, and cultural and social activities. These are designed to improve and enhance the quality of life of Black youth, families, and seniors. Star Can Cultural Association is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion, supporting cultural development, encouraging civic engagement through volunteering, and offering cultural and educational programming. The Build and Bridge Project aims to improve social outcomes by fostering community cohesion and inclusivity through events like the city-wide conference, annual Gala, and Black History Month education. These activities promote networking, recognition of local heroes, and education about Black history and culture, ultimately reducing social isolation and promoting a sense of belonging. The Share and Care Program provides essential support to vulnerable community members, potentially reducing healthcare costs associated with food insecurity and improving overall well-being, which can have positive economic implications. By addressing both social and economic needs, StarCan Cultural Association aims to create a more resilient and thriving Black community in Montreal.
The Church of Jesus Christ – The Apostles Foundation
The mission of The Church of Jesus Christ – Apostle’s Foundation is to improve the lives of men, women, youth, and children by implementing wholesome initiatives that empower individuals to become productive citizens so that they can, in turn, contribute to the lives of others. The project, “For Seniors with Love” Food Basket, will serve a total of 240 Black seniors from its faith community who reside in the Jane, Keele, and Steeles communities. Each month, Black seniors will receive food baskets containing fresh vegetables and fruits, religious and culturally sensitive protein foods, whole grains, and fats and oils delivered to their door, free of cost. This project will help to address the issue of chronic Black food insecurity by increasing food access to Black seniors, one of the most vulnerable groups in our community. Further, this project will not only benefit Black seniors but will accelerate the number of food access points for Black seniors.
The Jamaican Canadian Association
The Legacies of Black Community-Building is an initiative by the Jamaican Canadian Association to develop three learning modules that explore contemporary Black Canadian history. The educational modules will promote self-esteem, youth empowerment, and academic success for Black youth by helping to embed Black Canadian history in the school system in an accessible and culturally sensitive fashion. Activities within the modules will focus on leadership development, skills training for Black youth, and promoting civic engagement.
The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Daystar Chapel, Fort McMurray
Daystar Chapel is a Black-led multicultural church with a strong membership representation of immigrants from all over Africa and the Caribbean. The Daystar Chapel Keyano Drive Drive assists Black immigrant students from Africa and the Caribbean to settle and integrate into Canadian society. Collaborating with Keyano College, RCCG Daystar Chapel, Fort McMurray supports new Black students, workers, and their families in their community with the tools and information to build better lives for themselves and their families through employment and community development supports.
The V2V Project
The V2V Project is a Black and youth-led not-for-profit organization. Their organization is dedicated to cultivating wealth in the Black community by providing youth with valuable resources to aid in business development while also enhancing entrepreneurial and communication skills. The V2V Project strives to provide Black entrepreneurs with valuable resources such as funding opportunities and business mentorship. Increased access to resources is critical in overcoming barriers to business development and sustaining growth. The V2V Project is more than an entrepreneurial support program; it is a movement towards economic equality and community solidarity, embodying the principles of Black leadership, service, and focus.
The Zetna Collective for Black Advancement
The Zetna Collective for Black Advancement fosters a welcoming and inclusive community for the African, Black, and Caribbean 2SLGBTQ+ population in Edmonton, Alberta by providing a safe environment with culturally appropriate resources, services, and programming. Committed to advocacy, education, and social change, they collaborate with organizations to address systemic issues. The Haven: A Black Queer Affirmation Project in Edmonton confronts anti-Black racism, establishing a resilient, trauma-informed organization for Black, African, and Caribbean queer individuals. This project is designed to address the specific challenges faced by diverse members of the Black queer community, including newcomers, asylum seekers, and descendants of Caribbean immigrants and Black settlement pioneers. By recognizing intergenerational trauma and accommodating diverse life stages, the Zetna Collective demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the complexities within the Black queer experience. The goal of the Zetna Collective is to foster community-building through frequent gatherings, providing a platform for social interaction, shared experiences, and the formation of meaningful connections.
Velma Carter Centre for African Canadian Women
The Velma Carter Centre, located in Edmonton, Alberta, is a healing centre for African Canadian women dedicated to transformation, education, and self-actualization. The Velma Carter Centre emphasizes the interconnectedness of health and finances, intervening during trauma to ensure career trajectory stability. Through core funding, the Centre aims to improve organizational capacity, staffing and retention, and enhance programming that integrates mental health practices and financial advice to address Black women’s economic precarity.
Viola Desmond Justice Institute | L’Institut de Justice Viola Desmond
The Viola Desmond Justice Institute plans to address the lack of Impact of Race and Culture Assessments (IRCA) in the judicial system. IRCAs provide the court with the necessary information about the effect of systemic anti-Black racism on people of African descent and how the experience of racism has informed the circumstances of the offence, the offender, and how it might inform the offender’s experience of the carceral state. The demand for IRCAs out-measures their availability. The initiative plans to ensure that the oversight of IRCA processes are more Black-led, as it is in Nova Scotia, and to address this gap in supply and demand by providing a Black-owned and operated alternative for offenders to access quality assessment reports for cases.
B.I.G. CATAPULT STREAM RECIPIENTS
Afri-Can FoodBasket
The Afri-Can FoodBasket (AFB) is a Toronto-based non-profit organization committed to enhancing cultural food access by addressing hunger and promoting health and wellness through food and nutrition initiatives within the Greater Toronto Areas’s African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities. AFB strives to contribute to the development of a sustainable B3 food system in Toronto. ACB wants to ensure that everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy, and culturally appropriate food.
The Nourishing Wellness Culturally Healthy Communities program is anchored in the principles of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. Its focus is on delivering workshops, creating educational materials, and advocating for policy changes that recognize and incorporate the dietary traditions and preferences of the ACB communities.
This initiative is tailored to serve Black individuals and families, with a particular focus on those vulnerable to chronic diseases. The objective is to enhance their access to culturally relevant foods and improve health outcomes by addressing the specific challenges they face in accessing appropriate nutritional information and resources.
African and Caribbean Association of Nunavut
The African and Caribbean Association of Nunavut cultivates a community that leverages the collective talents and resiliency of Black people in Nunavut. The aim is to advance economic and social well-being through various means, including cultural ambassadorship, entrepreneurship, financial literacy support, and more.
African Women’s Alliance of Waterloo Region
The African Women’s Alliance of Waterloo Region is dedicated to empowering and uplifting Black communities in Canada by tackling challenges related to food insecurity and promoting greater social inclusion and support. The Village Pot – Fostering a Healthy Community initiative directly enhances social outcomes within a majority Black and African neighbourhoods by tackling issues of isolation, poor nutrition, and lack of community cohesion. Centring its activities around the communal and cultural importance of food, the program provides a multifaceted response to the previous stated challenges. Participants in the initiative will acquire essential cooking and nutrition skills, empowering them to make healthier dietary choices. This is critical for addressing the heightened rates of diet-related health issues in Black communities
By celebrating diverse African cuisines, the program strengthens community bonds and encourages cross-cultural understanding. This focus on cultural richness and shared culinary experiences serves as a powerful antidote to isolation, drawing participants into a supportive network where they can connect, learn, and grow together. The initiative’s support groups advance this goal by providing safe environments for individuals to exchange experiences, find mutual support, and confront the systemic challenges that fuel social isolation and disconnection.
African Youths in Canadian Agriculture (AYCA)
African Youths in Canadian Agriculture (AYCA) is a non-for-profit Canadian Inc. established to increase the representation of African Youths in the field of Agriculture in Canada. The African Youth Empowerment for Canadian Agriculture initiative encourages high school students of African descent to pursue agriculture at the undergraduate level, integrating them into the Canadian workforce. With a focus on coaching and mentorship, this initiative aims to enhance the prospects of African and African Canadian youth seeking employment in Canada, consequently boosting employment rates among this marginalized and underrepresented group.
AmEnough Society Canada
Am-Enough Society Canada is a dedicated nonprofit committed to providing essential mental health support to migrants and refugees. At Am-Enough Society Canada, we understand the unique challenges and stressors that migrants and refugees often face, ranging from cultural adjustments to traumatic experiences encountered before and during migration.
The Am-Enough Community Mental Health Support Program provides counselling, therapeutic services, psychoeducation programs, and community outreach for migrant and refugee community members. These initiatives aim to destigmatize seeking help, offer coping strategies, and foster community support. Ultimately, the program strives to combat anti-Black racism and improve social outcomes.
In collaboration with mental health professionals, community leaders, and volunteers, Am-Enough Society Canada is committed to dismantling barriers to mental health care and championing the well-being of migrants and refugees. Their mission is to equip their participants with the essential tools and resources needed to thrive in their new environment.
The Am-Enough Community Mental Health Support Program provides counselling, therapeutic services, psychoeducation programs, and community outreach for migrant and refugee community members. These initiatives aim to destigmatize seeking help, offer coping strategies, and foster community support. Ultimately, the program strives to combat anti-Black racism and improve social outcomes.
Arctic Caribbean Cultural Society
The Arctic Caribbean Cultural Society (ACCS) stands as one of the few isolated, Black-led organizations in the northern region. Core funding empowers ACCS to bolster its organizational capacity, delve into succession planning, and enhance its online presence. Additionally, ACCS endeavors to broaden economic development and employment programs for the growing Black community in the area, while strengthening the regional footprint in Whitehorse, Yukon.
Association Djiboutienne pour autisme et autres besoins (ADAB)
We would like to enhance our existing services by providing safe, fun and inclusive programs for the social, physical and emotional development of Black children with autism and other special needs, and their families. We would also like to hire qualified healthcare staff (occupational therapists, speech therapists, mental health professionals and behaviour specialists, etc.) and special needs professionals in schools to support our programs. These endeavours are important in fighting the social stigma surrounding special needs in Black communities. They also enable children and their families to break out of their isolation and take part in community events. On February 21, 2022, for Black History Month, the Board of Directors of ADAB hosted a virtual event for autistic children and their parents on racism and intolerance. A teenager with autism and a member of the Board of Directors were co-hosts and read the book entitled RACISM AND INTOLERANCE by Louise Spilsbury. This event enabled young people to learn more about racism and intolerance, to socialize and discuss how to fight racism against Black people. On February 19, 2022, ADAB hosted a virtual discussion among parents (SHAAX IYO SHEEK) on the risks associated with cybersecurity and how to protect their children. This discussion provided important information and possible solutions to improve social outcomes.
Atlantic Student Development Alliance
The Atlantic Student Development Alliance (ASDA) is dedicated to fostering a more inclusive and accessible job market for international students and graduates in Atlantic Canada. ASDA’s mission is to provide comprehensive transitional support, job readiness training, and job placement services to bridge the gap between post-secondary education and the job market.
Beyond job readiness, ASDA is deeply committed to promoting inclusivity and combating racism in the workplace. ASDA will launch in Nova Scotia to grow and sustain existing programs and services. This expansion is a response to the success and positive impact ASDA has already achieved in PEI. ASDA dismantles systemic barriers that disproportionately affect international students and graduates due to ASDA providing services that have directly contributed to participants’ socio-economic conditions.
Black Healing Fund
Black Healing Fund (BHF) is a volunteer-run collective based in Tio’tia:ke / Montreal, QC. They provide Black Montreal residents (francophone and anglophone) with recurrent discretionary funding to access mental health focused services through mutual aid fundraising. The Black Healing Fund Tio’tia:Ke initiative will hire Black mental health professionals to provide healing sessions throughout the year exclusively to Black Montrealers unable to afford these types of services. These initiatives focus on improving social outcomes for Black community members by reducing the socioeconomic barriers to accessing quality care services that improve mental and physical health outcomes. BHF is a grassroots response to systemic oppression in the form of anti-Black systemic racism, police brutality, and socioeconomic inequality.
Black Moms Connection
The “You Okay Mama?” health and wellness program by the Black Moms Connection comprises a series of workshops and retreats aimed at showcasing the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of Black mothers. Its purpose extends to providing preventative support by equipping mothers with essential life skills like self-care, goal setting, and problem-solving.
Ultimately, this program aims to enhance the economic prospects of Black mothers and their families by ensuring mothers are equipped with goal-setting tools to pursue their aspirations. The journey of Black motherhood is uniquely understood by fellow Black mothers. “You Okay Mama?” acts as a catalyst for improving the social outcomes of Black mothers, offering health and wellness resources and providing support through retreats and workshops covering vital topics such as self-care, parenting, and motherhood.
Caribana Arts Group
Caribana™ Arts Group (CAG) has contributed to the nation’s arts and culture sector since 1967. The mission of CAG is to uphold the highest standards of artistry and professionalism in showcasing Caribbean Carnival Arts. This includes engaging, educational, and economically sustainable programs like the Caribana™ Flags and Colours Youth Festival, Caribana™ on Ice, Caribana™ Kids Club, and various other activities. These endeavours aim to promote an appreciation of Caribbean culture and Black history within Canada.
The Caribana™ Kids Club is an arts and education program curated with various programs, workshops, and tutorials to teach participants about the mosaic of Caribbean culture and its key artistic elements rooted in history and Black liberation. This initiative aims to preserve and transmit carnival arts’ traditions while fostering mentorship for young talents. It also seeks to raise awareness of culture to dismantle societal barriers and highlight the valuable contributions of artists, educators, designers, musicians, and community leaders. Ultimately, it aims to challenge negative stereotypes and misconceptions associated with Black and Afro-Caribbean Canadians.
Chownation – Toronto Chowfest
Chowfest is Toronto’s first Trinidad and Tobagonian music and culture festival. Through the three pillars of Culture, Community, and Music—the initiative aims to dismantle systemic barriers and foster an environment where Black Caribbean individuals not only survive but thrive.
Through the community pillar, Chowfest plans to develop skill-building workshops, empowering Black professionals and entrepreneurs to overcome racial disparities in professional growth. Through the music pillar, the project aims to actively address gender and racial inequalities within the music industry, working towards a more inclusive and equitable representation of Black women.
Through the culture pillar, Chowfest aims to celebrate the richness of Black heritage, organizing events like the ChowNation Block that provide a platform for authentic representation and cultural pride.
Donald Moore Community Service Inc
Donald Moore Community Service Inc. has been serving the community for over 25 years. By providing a variety of initiatives, including educational programs, community outreach events, advocacy, and economic support, the Donald More Community Service is a pillar organization for Black communities in Hamilton.
The Cyber Security Awareness for Seniors over 65 program supports seniors who may be more vulnerable to cyber threats. The Donald Moore Community Service Inc. will create an educational program to bring awareness to seniors about cybersecurity threats and provide practical steps to safeguard their digital lives.
By educating seniors about the potential risks and best practices for staying safe online, cybersecurity awareness supports the development of a more informed and empowered society. As technology becomes increasingly integrated into various aspects of daily life, the risks associated with cyber threats and scams targeting seniors is also on the rise. By participating in this program, seniors can leverage the materials, knowledge, and experience provided to build a support network of friends and family. This network can assist them in navigating the digital world more effectively.
Durham Region Association of Black professionals and Entrepreneurs
The Black Youth STEM program led by the Durham Region Association of Black Professionals and Entrepreneurs aims to empower Black youth through STEM education and mentorship opportunities.
By providing tailored STEM workshops, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences, the program seeks to combat anti-Black racism experienced by Black youth interested in STEM disciplines.
Through culturally relevant programming and engagement with Black educators, professionals, and role models, the initiative aims to challenge stereotypes, dismantle biases, and foster belonging and inclusion for Black youth in STEM. By centring the experiences and aspirations of Black youth, the program actively works to counteract the historical marginalization and underrepresentation of Black individuals in STEM education and careers.
Empower the Youth Foundation
The Empower the Youth Foundation is committed to fostering positive change within Black communities in Toronto, particularly in low-income areas like Gilder Drive in Scarborough. With a dedicated staff, who have personally experienced the challenges of growing up in such distressed neighborhoods, the Empower Youth Foundation understands the importance of addressing systemic issues and creating opportunities for youth at risk.
The ThriveTogether Wellness Project, a multifaceted initiative designed to address the complex interplay between health, well-being, and socio-economic factors, contributes to a more resilient and empowered community. This initiative envisions a community where improved social cohesion and individual well-being synergize with enhanced economic empowerment. By strategically addressing both social and economic determinants, the ThriveTogether Wellness Project aims to create a sustainable and transformative impact on the overall health and prosperity of Black communities in Toronto.
Espoir For All Society
The Espoir For All Society, is a non-profit organization that aims to eliminate barriers and provide meaningful relationships and partnerships through activities and services that enhance cultural connections and catalyze self-determination.
Collaborating with diverse communities, Espoir endeavors to assist disadvantaged and vulnerable groups in achieving cultural, social, and economic well-being through advocacy, opportunity creation, responsibility, and healing. By engaging with out-of-school youth and employing a strength-based approach, the Espoir for All Society has established a pathway to employment and offers job training for Black youth within their community. These programs also encompass sports and community-based initiatives to cultivate stronger connections and community outcomes.
Ghana Friendship Association of Edmonton
The Ghana Friendship Association of Edmonton (GFAE) was established in 1975 to improve relations between Edmonton’s general population and ethnocultural communities. GFAE is a non-profit organization that aims to promote the social, cultural, and economic integration of Edmonton Area Ghanaian immigrants, refugees, and Canadian descendants. GFAE’s mission is to foster a sense of belonging and community, enhance member well-being and empowerment, and see a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive society where Ghanaian Canadians can contribute to the development of their host country and their country of origin. GFAE will expand its Cultural Heritage Program to advance the skills of participants, in particular youth, bridging culture and academic achievement for young people.
Grace Deliverance Apostolic Ministries
Grace Deliverance Apostolic Ministries (GDAM) is a not-for profit organization committed to implementing meaningful and responsive ministries, programs, and services to increase the quality of life of youth and families in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Grace Nutrition and Cooking Club will provide a food and nutrition cooking club highlighting and tackling the high need for food security and stability throughout the GTA, primarily in Toronto and Brampton. GDAM will provide weekly meals and grocery items to individuals and families who are in need, monthly capacity building seminars, workshops aligned with nutrition literacy, resource navigation, and cooking classes for individuals and families.
Halton Black Voices
Halton Black Voices’ Black Student Union (HBSU) is a Black-focused initiative that focuses on capacity building for the Black community in Halton. Through programs like the Halton Black Student Union, HBSU provides educational and social platforms that foster a sense of belonging and empowerment among Black youth. These initiatives not only address immediate community needs but also contribute to long-term societal change by promoting cultural understanding and dismantling systemic barriers. HBSU embodies a holistic approach to supporting and strengthening Black communities in Halton, ensuring their voices and needs are central to all initiatives. Through weekly meetings, regular gatherings, sports programs, like basketball and soccer, and wellness activities, HBSU aims to reduce isolation and improve mental health.
ICON Talent Partners
ICON Talent Partners plans to address the underrepresentation of Black racialized talent in growing sectors such as technology, management consulting, private equity, and venture capital. Through three programs, Scholars, Careers, and Leaders, ICON plans to equip individuals with essential skills for academic and career success; propel high-potential students toward excellence in top universities through robust academic support and networking opportunities; prepare university and college students for the workforce with internships and workshops; and support mid-career professionals and MBA students achieve senior leadership roles, enhancing diversity in business and industry leadership.
Jaku Konbit
Jaku Konbit is a non-profit, community-based organization established in Ottawa in 2000. The organization’s mission is to support and improve the lives of disadvantaged individuals and families of African and Caribbean descent through partnership with communities and programming, resulting in successful economic and civic participation in Canadian society. The Black Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation project will build Jaku Konbit’s financial training capacity for Black youth. Jaku Konbit will scale up the entrepreneurial aspect of their financial literacy training program, expand their services to institutions already investing in their programs, and have a permanent, positive impact on Black youth in their community. This project builds upon the established track record of leadership, knowledge, program, and cultural services of Jaku Konbit.
Lady Ballers Camp
Lady Ballers Camp aims to build on the success of their pre-apprenticeship program by expanding the program into an intensive 12-month electrical apprenticeship. Participants will graduate with the first tier of a 5-tier apprenticeship, equipped to transition into their second year. The Lady Ballers Camp’s forward-thinking, industry-informed curriculum integrates solar, wind, and fuel cells, including Low Carbon Training and LEED certifications. The intention is to give graduates a competitive edge due to the ongoing reluctance of employers to hire apprentices because of their lack of experience and associated costs. Beyond the in-depth training and on-the-job experience, Lady Ballers Camps will also provide a year’s pay top-up to incentivize employers to hire program graduates.
LiftOff Black Innovation Hub
LiftOff’s Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) led by the LiftOff Black Innovation Hub, located in Kitchener, Ontario, aims to overcome systemic barriers and promote economic empowerment in the Black community. The one-on-one coaching sessions, led by experienced Black business coaches, not only equip entrepreneurs with essential skills but also cultivate resilience and empowerment, countering the impact of systemic racism on business opportunities. LiftOff’s BEP also engages with organizations that have the power and influence to address systemic issues that negatively affect Black individuals and entrepreneurs.
Mamak Ethnic Food Processing Centre
Mama Ethnic Food Processing Centre (MEFPC) is a local food processing centre specializing in agricultural food processing and mentorship support to turn food ideas into value-added consumable products. The initiative supports Black women and ‘food-preneurs’ with leadership, food product development, market penetration strategies, manufacturing capacity, commercialization, and cost-scenario planning to bring products to the retail market. MEFPC supports the economic wellbeing of Black women, families, and communities by bringing value-added food to market.
Montreal Hiking Association – Hike MTL
Hike MTL empowers and destigmatize Black and racialized communities by fostering a sense of belonging through outdoor nature based excursions, aimed to reduce economic and social barriers, promote a healthy lifestyle, both physical and mental. Hike MTL plans to increase Black leadership and representation in outdoor environements, expand programming of beginner-friendly excursions, and faciliate educational workshops.
NotJustYou Foundation
NotJustYou is a sickle cell support organization devoted to creating support systems that provide tools and resources for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease (SCD). NotJustYou contributes to holistic care for SCD patients and families by providing physical and digital spaces for healthy discussion on the social and physical implications of the disease, while advocating in hospitals and with caretakers to encourage better practices for patient care and treatment. Many of the big challenges to the personal and professional development of those with sickle cell disease and their caregivers are often faced during the time they spend in short-term or medium-term medical care. By delivering essential items during short-term hospital stays, these packages alleviate some of the anxiety and remove some of the time spent preparing for these hospital visits. NotJustYou is in a unique position to launch this project and provide a primary pathway to enhanced social outcomes.
Oasis Youth Care Programs
Oasis Youth Care creates a safe haven for vulnerable young people at risk of homelessness by providing transitional housing and wellbeing-focused support services to Black youth, aged 18-29. Through the Oasis Housing and Resource Hub, the initiative plans to scale and grow a successful pilot strategy that addresses family conflicts, homelessness, mental health challenges, educational disruptions, employment barriers, and social isolation among youth.
Pitch Better
Pitch Better enables Black and equity-seeking women to build thriving organizations by influencing systems, facilitating connections and access, and building capacity. Pitch Better plans to enhance the FoundHers Innovation Lab – an accelerator program matching Black women founders with Chief Technology Officers who will provide advice, technology strategy, and infrastructure support. This enables Black women founders and entrepreneurs to build the digital and technical acumen required for sustainability and scalability. By equipping Black women entrepreneurs with in-demand digital skills and experience implementing transformative technologies, FoundHers Labs plans to empower participants to establish thriving, sustainable tech-enabled organizations.
Power to Girls Foundation
Power to Girls Foundation plans to expand GIRLS – Growing Independent Resilient Ladies – a free after-school program which runs during the school year. GIRLS offers weekly hour-long sessions that take place in schools in low-income communities in Toronto. Since 2018, 500 girls have participated in GIRLS, accessing gender-specific, culturally relevant experiences and resources including personal development (self-esteem, physical and mental health, and positive relationships); mentorship and access to caring adults; and leadership and skill-building, including digital and financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
Quebec Board of Black Educators
Since 1968, the Quebec Board of Black Educators has been the principal voice advocating for a more inclusive and equitable school system, while advancing policies and programs to combat Anti-Black racism embedded in the system. The QBBE Ecosystem is the advocacy branch combatting Anti-Black racism and exclusion in Quebec’s education ecosystem. The centre promotes social innovation and applied research. It aims to bridge the widening gap that Black communities face in relation to mainstream society, accentuated by rapid transformations in various sectors. The QBBE Ecosystem champions the development of new governance, management, and social integration models, highlighting the Black community’s integral role in Canada’s diversity. It endeavors to create a collaborative space that not only gathers collective intelligence and scientific data to combat social and economic exclusion, but also promotes community synergy and sustainable development as a social enterprise and startup incubator. This facilitates value-based leadership in a democratic, safe working environment, underscoring the ecosystem’s commitment to enhancing social outcomes for the Black community.
Rahma Community and Youth Centre
Rahma Community and Youth Centre Inc. was established nine years ago in Winnipeg and is a dedicated non-profit organization serving the African communities, particularly in eastern Winnipeg. The RISE (Rahma Initiative for Success and Empowerment) program is dedicated to Black children of African descent in Winnipeg. Led by Rahma Community and Youth Centre Inc., this after-school initiative tackles educational disparities, cultural disconnection, and systemic barriers, contributing to leveling the educational playing field, a crucial social determinant of success. RISE’s approach encompasses academic tutoring and mentorship, infused with culturally relevant content. Through constructive activities and exposure to positive role models and mentors, RISE encourages students to engage in beneficial social networks, avoiding adverse influences. RISE transcends traditional educational boundaries, offering a holistic program that aims to uplift, empower, and integrate young Black community members into the wider society. This combination of education, mentorship, and cultural enrichment ensures RISE plays a pivotal role in enhancing social outcomes for its participants.
Somali Center for Family Services
With a rich history spanning over 28 years, the Somali Centre for Family Services (SCFS) is dedicated to delivering culturally competent and inclusive services to diverse newcomer and multicultural communities in Ottawa, Canada. It aims for a broader impact, dismantling systemic barriers to education and employment for Black youth in Ottawa through strategic partnerships and created the EmpowerYou project. EmpowerYou collaborates with existing SCFS partners, including Black Youth Table Talk, a coalition of 21 organizations supporting Black youth in Ottawa. EmpowerYou has expanded its Building Black Future Resilience project – an economic employment readiness program that aims to support 100 youth in Ottawa. The project emphasizes adaptability, aiming for lasting positive outcomes by empowering Black Youth and fostering community connections. EmpowerYou employs a comprehensive methodology centred on community collaboration through program design, youth-centric trauma-informed approaches, and by leveraging successful models and fostering partnerships.
SoundCheck Youth Arts
SoundCheck Youth Arts Inc. will provide a safe-space for Black youth and musicians ages 15-29 in the Greater Toronto Area to hone music-skills, develop positive peer-relationships, and access mentorship from experienced-musicians, within a fully equipped music-facility created by and for Black youth. Project activities include weekly music programs, artistic and professional development workshops (hybrid program delivery), and mentorship. Through their program, Black youth strengthen bonds with their peers and mentors, have access to safe spaces that support their unique needs, increase their music skills and knowledge, increase confidence and resilience, and experience reduced stress. The program reduces systemic barriers barring meaningful participation and inclusion in the arts by providing culturally relevant spaces for Black youth and musicians to unpack, navigate, and heal from the impacts of anti-Black racism through music.
St. Clare Black Moms
St. Clare Black Moms is a non-profit organization that aims to reshape the narrative of childhood play by strategically placing Afro-centric dolls in kindergarten classrooms across the four Toronto District School Boards through their KidGlow: Nurturing Joyful Roots program. By providing positive representation through Afro-centric dolls, this initiative challenges stereotypes, fostering a positive and inclusive environment that promotes understanding and appreciation of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds from an early age. KidGlow goes beyond just providing dolls; it nurtures a sense of self-worth, visibility, and love for all Black children. By infusing diverse toys into classrooms across all neighbourhoods, the initiative works towards establishing a norm of racial diversity and acceptance by children during their crucial formative years.
Sudanese-Canadian Association of Ottawa (SCAO)
The Sudanese Canadians Association of Ottawa (SCAO) supports diverse groups within Black communities including refugees, recent immigrants, women, people with special needs, and youth, providing them with the tools needed to reach their highest potential. SCAO’s Comprehensive Community Development initiative invests in the local Sudanese’s community’s capabilities and intangible skills to discover their talents and inspirations through developing programs and services that address their diverse needs. The initiative is focused on achieving positive social and economic outcomes in a safe, sustainable, and culturally appropriate environment and geared towards addressing the real needs of Ottawa’s Sudanese community.
Ten2One Foundation
Ten2One Foundation plans to scale its community development programming to engage and empower Black children and youth through its Resilient-Rhythms program. This program plans to implement mentorship support and education workshops on S.T.E.M., financial literacy, mental and physical wellbeing, with a focus on supporting youth in the Ottawa region and Greater Toronto Area.
The Enough Initiative Canada
The Enough Initiative Canada’s Blacktion Strategy and Digital Visibility Program will support Northern Canada’s B3 organizations who face systemic barriers in becoming viable businesses and improving their economic outcomes. Using the funds from the Black Ideas Grant, the program will provide free training and services, exploring strategic planning and implementation, digital design and visibility, and performance evaluation.
Tribe Canada Community Services
TRIBE Canada Community Services provides supportive community, career, mental health, and personal development programing that prioritizes under-served Black families and communities. TRIBE plans to launch the initiative – “Breaking Barriers” – to address the underrepresentation and systemic exclusion of Black Canadians in municipal politics. This initiative emerges from a critical need to understand and dismantle the barriers that prevent Black individuals from fully participating in political processes that directly impact their communities. The goals are to identify these systemic barriers through rigorous research, engage Black Canadians in meaningful dialogue about their political experiences, and advocate for inclusive policies that facilitate equal participation.
UBC Black Graduate Student Network (BGSN)
The UBC Black Graduate Student Network’s (BGSN) mission is to foster a community for Black graduate students at the UBC Vancouver campus while improving their well-being. The BGSN’s Black Graduate Student Wellness Initiative will provide first-generation and second-generation Black students with accessible and affordable culturally appropriate food and childcare. The Food Security program and the Childcare Stipend directly improve the social and economic outcomes of Black Graduate Students at UBC.
Ubuntu – Black Trans, Non-Binary and Afro-Indigenous 2Spirit Collective
The Ubuntu – Black Trans, Non-Binary and Afro-Indigenous 2Spirit Collective’s Sugar, Spice and HRT’s 12-week food and nutrition program will support Black Trans people living in the Greater Toronto Area residence, considering, or undergoing gender-affirming Hormone Therapy (HRT). The program will address the socio-economic challenges related to food insecurity as Queer and Trans youth are up to 5 times more likely to be food insecure. Using the funds, The Ubuntu – Black Trans, Non-Binary and Afro-Indigenous 2Spirit Collective will provide culturally responsive food boxes, facilities and facilitators for cooking workshops, and guided grocery store visits.
Ummah at Home
Ummah at Home is a Black-led initiative that aims to develop a feasibility study to determine supports for Black seniors with its Supporting Black Elders – Aging at Home with Care project in the Vanier-Ottawa region. This project initiative will launch and pilot an innovative home healthcare service to provide culturally sensitive and relevant services to Black Canadians, refugees, newcomers, immigrants, and migrants who are historically excluded from accessing affordable and high-quality homecare services in the region.
Union United Church
The Union United Church, established in 1907 as Quebec’s first Black congregation, has a rich history of serving marginalized communities, including low-income families, newcomers, women, and seniors. Beyond its role as a place of worship, the church is dedicated to addressing social issues, fighting poverty and homelessness, and promoting outreach within their community. The Church seeks to fulfill community needs and strives to build a more inclusive and compassionate society through various programs, initiatives, and partnerships. Breaking the Cycle supports Black inmates and breaks down the various mechanisms that contribute to the cycle of their over-incarceration. By offering outings to people incarcerated in minimum-security institutions, access to and participation in the Food Bank, and trauma-informed workshops, Union United Church aims to build connections with incarcerated community members and the wider Black community. This comprehensive approach addresses the specific challenges faced by Black prisoners. It focuses on breaking down the barriers that continually block their process to timely reintegration. In doing so, it combats systemic racism, improves social outcomes, and enhances economic prospects by providing tailored support, community engagement, and access to legal services.
Yoruba Social and Cultural Association of British Columbia
Since 1998, the Yoruba Social and Cultural Association of British Columbia has successfully implemented many community building programs enabling social integration for Black community members. The Community Empowerment and Social Integration, a program launched in 2022, supports and educates Black community members. The Yoruba Social and Cultural Association of British Columbia provides community members with access to monthly Yoruba language classes, vocational skills programming, youth development, and business training. The business EXPO provides a platform for their Black entrepreneurs to connect with other organizations and financial institutions like RBC and Prospera and as well as government officials.
ZTF Music Academy
ZTF Music Academy, located in St. Johns, Newfoundland and Labrador, plans to grow the Music Skills Development Bootcamp – Crescendo, which serves as a vital creative outlet, offering mental and emotional de-stressors through music. Through a sliding scale model, the program provides subsidized learning opportunities to break down financial barriers for accessing musical instruments. ZTF Music Academy plans to strategically leverage music education to drive positive community development.
B.I.G. COMMUNITY CAPITAL STREAM RECIPIENTS
Black Boys Code Society
Black Boys Code is a leading organization dedicated to empowering Black youth in Canada with digital literacy skills and stands as a beacon of progress in technology education. The BlackTechBridge: From Code to Creation initiative expands on current Black Boys Code programming by using local Makerspaces for Black technology programming, reflecting a commitment to empowering the Black community by utilizing a transformative learning environment.
By using Makerspaces, Black youth challenge themselves to create and learn through hands-on experiences. After learning abstract concepts during a lecture, students acquire new knowledge through real-world understanding. Black Boys Code Society empowers Black youth, enabling them to unlock their full potential as future technology leaders and innovators. Black Boys Code Society will support youth in Ontario and Alberta.
Black Canadian Housing Centre – NABC
The Network for the Advancement of Black Communities (NABC) aspires to build a strong and sustainable Black community sector by enabling the conditions for systems change. The Black Canadian Housing Centre initiative, led by NABC, aims to help establish a substantial and varied supply of quality, affordable housing for Black communities wherever there’s a demonstrated need. This governance structure enables it to independently develop, manage, and sustain itself while also playing an active role in the broader community housing sector throughout Canada.
Black Health Alliance
Building on Black Health Alliance’s legacy of delivering results in Ontario. Black Health Alliance will be implementing population and place-based approaches to improve health and well-being outcomes, with an initial focus on Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, and Nova Scotia.
Black Health Alliance will lay the groundwork for a National Black Health & Well-being Strategy. This initiative will build capacity within Black communities to sustainably respond to these challenges over the long term. Bringing people together through this focused effort supports the development of the growing Black health ecosystem in Canada.
Bureau de la communauté haïtienne de Montréal (BCHM)
This infrastructure project is centered around a social acceptability approach, as BCHM’s is located within a predominantly mono-ethnic Caucasian neighborhood. Several housing units will be provided to house young Black people from youth protection services, which will raise cohabitation issues. The approach BCHM wants to adopt aims at fighting racist prejudice towards these young people and the potential impact these prejudices could have on the project moving forward on the chosen site. The project’s goal is to mobilize the entire Rosemont La-Petite-Patrie community around a project that will bring about major social change for Montréal’s Black community.
Etio-Canadian Azawent Association
Established in 2018, the Etio-Canadian Azawent Association serves Ethiopian and Eritrean seniors and their families. By uniting the community through the development of various programs, discussions, and activities, the Etio-Canadian Azawent Association is dedicated to the betterment of life for all Ethiopian and Eritrean seniors. Expanding on their program AgeWell, the Etio-Canadian Azawent Association aims to reduce isolation by creating a safe and welcoming environment while providing culturally appropriate public services to their diverse community of Ethiopian and Eritrean seniors. The Ethio-Eri Seniors Services: A Social Enterprise, will improve the social inclusion of seniors by developing a social enterprise that will improve the effectiveness of the long-term operations of the organization. The Etio-Canadian Azawent Association is a leading provider of culturally supportive programs for seniors and works with community partners across Ontario and Canada, aiming to share their successes and best practices.
Inuka Community
Inuka will increase the stock of affordable housing dedicated to the Black community. As a Black and woman-led community-owned developer, they are building a model dedicated to the development of affordable housing for Black communities. Inuka’s strategy involves engaging, recruiting, and retaining Black individuals and families as potential tenants in readiness for occupation upon construction completion. Facilitators will be engaged to collaboratively design a curriculum focused on tenancy-oriented financial literacy, credit building, renters’ rights and advocacy, and path to home ownership. Inuka will provide access to affordable housing for families who are at risk of homelessness which, in turn, will provide stability and build economic resilience. Inuka aims to bring on board tenants with low credit scores and onboard them to a rent credit reporting platform that moves them to build their credit from subprime credit scores to prime credit scores. This programming is designed to support tenants to save towards home ownership during their tenancy with the support of a financial literacy and a coaching program. Inuka aims to replicate and collaborate with partners across Canada, including British Columbia.
Nia Centre for the Arts
Nia Centre for the Arts is a Toronto-based not-for-profit organization that supports, showcases and promotes an appreciation of arts from across all Black communities. After undergoing a three-year renovation project, Nia Centre for the Arts opened Canada’s first professional multidisciplinary Black arts centre in the heart of Little Jamaica, a historically Caribbean neighbourhood. Nia Centre provides Black artists with the space and resources they need to develop new skills, accelerate their careers, and push their creative limits. Following a $12-M capital renovation, there has been a significant increase in demand from Black artists and arts organizations across the country. In response, Nia Centre is partnering with Black artists and organizations in Ontario and Nova Scotia to develop effective solutions that address the needs and challenges faced by the Black arts community nationwide. Nia Centre aims to address the underrepresentation of Black artists in the Canadian arts sector by actively working towards increasing their visibility and opportunities. Through various programs and initiatives, Nia Centre will provide a dedicated space and resources for Black cultures and traditions, fostering a sense of belonging, identity, and pride within Black communities.
Raricanow – Rights For All LGBTIQ+ Refugees In Canada Now Society
The EWAKA 2SLGBTIQ Refugees Housing Project is a community-led initiative led by Raricanow, that aims to address the housing needs of Black 2SLGBTIQ+ refugees and newcomers who face significant challenges in accessing safe and inclusive housing. These individuals come from refugee camps and countries where it is illegal to express their gender identity and sexual orientation and where they face persecution and even death. The project seeks to create a sustainable housing solution that empowers 2SLGBTIQ+ refugees and gender diverse folks. It promotes their well-being and integration into Canadian society while providing comprehensive settlement support services, including mental health support, employment assistance, and legal support in partnership with other community organizations.
Rwandan Canadian Healing Centre
The Rwandan-Canadian Healing Centre (RCHC), founded in 2018, is a federally registered not-for-profit organization, with a vision to serve as a multidimensional safe-space for the purposes of healing, education, research and social advocacy against PTSD and Trauma-related effects.
The African Canadian Affordable Housing Village Hub Pilot Project funded by FFBC, is a part of the African Canadian Affordable Housing Village initiative, which RCHC leads in collaboration with six other African Canadian Agencies (KCA, New Nakfa, GCAO, NABC, CASA Design, as well as GTA-Rwandan Canadian Collective of 5 agencies). The project aims to prioritize the well-being of African Canadians through the proposed community hub – which is designed as a One-Stop Shop, offering a range of resources and activities tailored to the communities’ needs. From free shared working spaces for skill development to multipurpose creative spaces for artistic expression, storytelling, and cultural activities, the project caters to diverse interests within African Canadian communities. The goal is to build generational wealth not only through the implementation of the Village model but through the development of strong Black-led and owned spaces, contributing to the development of collective solutions that transcend generations
Startop
The Startop® initiative is led by an organization founded by three Black women and plays a vital role in fighting racism and improving economic outcomes. The project aims to increase the number of underrepresented Black female entrepreneurs overall (only 1.7% of Canadian female entrepreneurs are Black) and within the social economy where there are almost no Black female entrepreneurs (around 0.1%). This project is relevant within the context of our nation, as one in five Black families in Canada lives below poverty level, and Black women still face a great deal of discrimination in the job market. Social entrepreneurship can offer them a reliable and sustainable path to emancipation. By promoting entrepreneurship, Startop® offers women a way to earn a living and also an opportunity to tackle social problems and to contribute to their communities in a positive way. It can also lead to opportunities for individuals to gain financial independence and for Black communities to accumulate wealth. The goal is to provide Black women with the tools and skills they need to set up and run businesses within the social economy, thereby increasing the number of businesses owned by Black women. This increase is necessary in order to provide visible models of success, inspire the next generation, and ensure a more diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. In short, this project contributes directly to the fight against racism and to better economic outcomes for Black communities, marking a significant step towards greater economic equality.
The Ase Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities
The Ase Community Foundation for Black Canadians with Disabilities is a national organization that disrupts disparities at the intersection of Blackness, disability, and gender, driving a cultural shift that supports collective liberation. As Canada’s first national Black disabled-led organization, the Ase Community’s work cultivates access for all Black Canadians through education and awareness, collaborative knowledge sharing, research, and policy. Ase Community’s National Black Accessibility Knowledge Hub (BlackHub) is a critical, transformative, three-phase initiative. The BlackHub supports phase one, the inclusive design of the infrastructure, information technology and digital communication platform, accommodation technology, and content management system, which support the robust accessibility resource and toolkit, knowledge mobilization, research and policy, and national coalitions crucial to eradicating anti-Black racism and ableism. The BlackHub ensures that the community’s voices and experiences are valued and centred across the research, policy, and advocacy work.
The Delmore “Buddy” Daye Learning Institute
The Delmore “Buddy” Daye Learning Institute (DBDLI), based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is dedicated to enhancing the educational experiences of African Nova Scotian and Canadian learners. Named in honour of Delmore “Buddy” Daye, a celebrated community leader and the first African Nova Scotian Sergeant-at-Arms in the Province House, DBDLI focuses on providing Africentric education and research. Its “Re-envisioning DBDLI Community Hub” is a community-driven initiative that is uniquely positioned to combat anti-Black racism by fostering understanding and appreciation of Black culture. The current physical space is designed to reflect African heritage and serves as an educational and cultural epicentre. It features areas for community gatherings, discussions, workshops, and art exhibitions, making it a vibrant platform for celebrating Black achievements and facilitating dialogue. Complementing this is their development of a virtual Africentric space – this digital extension allows for a wider dissemination of knowledge and cultural content, making the hub’s resources accessible to a global audience.