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Canada Supports Black Communities with Second Call for Proposals Under Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund

Gatineau, Quebec – The Canadian federal government remains dedicated to fostering a fairer, more inclusive society where Black Canadians can thrive and reach their full potential. As part of this ongoing commitment, today marked a significant milestone in the country’s recognition of the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent, which Canada officially endorsed six years ago. Through this recognition, the government pledged to make transformative investments to support Black communities across Canada.

Canada Supports Black Communities with Second Call for Proposals Under Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund
Canada Supports Black Communities with Second Call for Proposals Under Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund (Source: X / @ESDC_GC)

In an effort to continue this work, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, Kamal Khera, congratulated the Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC) on the launch of its second call for proposals under the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund. The fund, supported by a $200-million endowment from the Government of Canada, was established to provide sustainable funding for Black-led, Black-focused, and Black-serving non-profit organizations and registered charities throughout the country.

Building on the success of its first call for proposals, FFBC introduced the Black Ideas Grant, which will allocate a total of $9.5 million in funding. This includes $5.23 million in federal support. The second round of the fund is expected to finance an estimated 130 projects aimed at fighting anti-Black racism and improving social and economic outcomes for Black communities. Eligible organizations have until November 8, 2024, to apply, and FFBC anticipates announcing the selected projects by spring 2025.

The federal government’s investment in Black-led and Black-serving organizations is a crucial step in addressing the long-standing barriers to inclusion that Black communities in Canada continue to face. The FFBC, a national Black-led organization, was selected in February 2023 to oversee the administration of the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund. Its mission is to ensure that Black communities receive sustained resources and infrastructure needed for lasting change.

Since its endorsement of the International Decade for People of African Descent, the Government of Canada has committed up to $872 million to Black-focused initiatives. These investments encompass areas such as racial justice, entrepreneurship, and economic dignity, demonstrating a clear commitment to building a better future for Black Canadians.

SOURCE Government of Canada

Alwin Marshall-Squire

Alwin Marshall-Squire is the Editor-in-Chief and Jamaican-Canadian Affairs Writer at Vision Newspaper - The Caribbean Update. With over two decades of experience, he is a dedicated advocate for amplifying Jamaican-Canadian voices. Alwin leads with vision, shaping the newspaper's editorial direction to reflect the diverse Jamaican Diaspora community. His insightful commentary and investigative reporting shed light on issues of identity and social justice, sparking crucial conversations and inspiring positive change. Alwin is not only a journalist but also a community leader, actively involved in initiatives promoting equity and representation. For feedback Alwin can be reached at al@visionnewspaper.ca

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