Individual Funding Program

Individual Funding Program is sponsored by Future Generations Foundation. The Individual Funding Program supports First Nations individuals aged 18 or older with a valid SIN and First Nation membership or status in Canada, enabling them to pursue education, healing, and cultural learning opportunities.

Future Generations Foundation Strengthening Education, Healing, and Cultural Learning Coast to Coast to Coast The Future Generations Foundation (FG Foundation) supports First Nations individuals in pursuing education, healing, and cultural learning opportunities.

Through our Individual Funding Program, we provide scholarships, training support, and cultural learning awards that nurture identity, strengthen skills, and foster connection to community and culture. Whether in classrooms, on the land, or within cultural spaces, this program helps individuals realize their aspirations while contributing to collective healing and resurgence. To date, the FG Foundation has awarded $47.

6M to 10,606 First Nations and Métis individuals pursuing cultural learning, post-secondary education, and professional training. We support a wide range of initiatives for First Nations applicants, including: Cultural learning and traditional teachings — such as language immersion, land-based learning, and participation in Elder-led workshops. Healing and wellness programs — focused on community connection and personal well-being.

Post-secondary education — including certificate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies. Training and certification — from trades and technical skills to professional development courses. Capacity-building workshops — that develop leadership, life skills, or employment readiness.

If your activity builds knowledge, strengthens identity, or creates opportunities for personal growth, it may qualify for FG Foundation support. Types of Individual Funding When applying, you will be asked to choose the category that best fits your learning activity. Cultural Learning for individuals pursuing non-institutional cultural or traditional knowledge activities.

Learning a language or cultural practice from an Elder or expert Participating in ceremony or traditional skills training Developing land-based or craft-based knowledge, such as hunting, trapping, sewing, beading or hide preparation.

Support for certificate programs and training delivered by institutions, such as: Trade schools and other recognized training programs (e.g. FNTI, NVIT, SAIT, NAIT, BCIT) Nechi Institute, Six Nations polytechnic, AFOA, and more. Scholarships are available for post-secondary studies at recognized CEGEPs, colleges, or universities, including undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.

Individual Funding Impact by the Numbers The Individual Funding Program strengthens knowledge, education, and cultural learning for First Nations learners across the country. Awarded to 10,606 individuals in scholarships for post-secondary studies. Invested in 931 individuals pursuing training and trades programs.

Provided to 1,495 individuals for cultural learning and traditional knowledge-building.

The Individual Funding Program is open to: First Nations individuals who are 18 years of age or older by December 31, 2026 Applicants who have a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN) Applicants who hold membership or status in a First Nation community in Canada What You will Need to Apply Before you begin your application, make sure you have: Proof of First Nation membership (e.g., a status card or community verification) Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) Documentation related to your program, training, or learning activity (e.g., acceptance letter, description, or registration confirmation) A brief personal statement describing your goals, how the activity supports your education or healing journey, and the expected outcomes.

A budget or cost breakdown (if applicable) Only completed and submitted applications will be reviewed by the selection committee. Late applications will not be accepted. Applications for individual funding are accepted during the annual Call for Applications period between April to June for activities taking place between August to September.

Please note that the maximum funding amount for individuals is $20,000 per year, awarded amounts depend on financial need and fund availability. You can apply online through the FG Foundation portal. Visit our Apply Now page to start your application or contact our team for support with eligibility or documentation questions.

Resources to Help You Apply We’ve developed several resources to help guide you through the process. Individual Funding Toolkit (PDF) – Detailed instructions, eligibility criteria, and application tips. Individuals How to apply Toolkit - Bursary & Scholarship Applicants Individuals How to apply Toolkit - Cultural Learning Applicants How to Apply Video – Step-by-step walkthrough of the online application system.

Individual Funding How To Apply Video Upcoming Info Sessions – Join a live session to learn about timelines, eligibility, and best practices. New session dates will be added ahead of our next application call. Please check back soon.

Frequently Asked Questions – Common questions about scholarships, trades, and cultural learning awards. Need help? Our staff can answer questions about eligibility, documentation, or next steps.

Jerri Bluecloud, an intergenerational survivor from Yellow Quill First Nation and African Nova Scotian, is the first in her family to pursue a university degree. … Emily Eckloff, an intergenerational survivor from Waywayseecappo First Nation in Manitoba, is forging new paths in Indigenous education and environmental science.

Supported by the FG… Kimberly Kennedy’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and commitment to community well-being. A mother of two and a member of the Red Rock Indian…