Mountain goats can be found in every mountain range from Alaska, throughout B.C., and as far south as Washington. These goats are mostly found at high elevations in steep, cliff-dominated landscapes. They live in the Northern Boreal Mountains, the Coast and Mountains and Southern Interior Mountains ecoprovinces. Mountain goats have the incredible ability to stand on an area the size of a Canadian quarter. Most adult male goats, called ‘billies’ are solitary, whereas the females (nannies) and young (kids) stick close together. In November the mating spectacle begins. Billies coat themselves in dust while ploughing down vegetation with their horns, which have special scent glands at their base, to attract females. Learn more here.
Mission Statement: The BC NEIHR facilitates and supports capacity for and engagement in Indigenous-led health research that is woven from the values, knowledge systems, protocols, priorities and leadership of Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations (ICCOs), academic researchers and students in BC. Our collective goal is to ground BC NEIHR structures, relationships and processes in the values and principles of self-determination, Indigenous knowledge, wholistic population health and wellness, as well as intersectionality, equity, and transparency. We also aspire to promote and support Indigenous and/or decolonizing (ID) methodologies, ethics and OCAP® in Indigenous research. In BC NEIHR activities, we acknowledge and will uphold the cultural safety and cultural humility that is modeled by the work of the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and the work yet to come from other ICCOs.
The BC NEIHR is guided by three Indigenous-governed, community-led organizations that are leading health and wellness research across BC. The three salmon in our logo represent these key partners:
If you would like to join the British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research, fill out the BC NEIHR Registration Survey Form.
Being part of the BC NEIHR will connect you to research and student funding, trainings, events, employment and other unique opportunities in British Columbia and across Canada!
Already a BC NEIHR Member? Do not forget to update your Registration Form each year to ensure we have accurate records.
BC NEIHR UPDATES
- Master’s Scholarship Program: The objective of the BC NEIHR Master’s Scholarship program is to help develop research skills and assist in the training of Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) Master's students in British Columbia (BC) institutions, who demonstrate achievement in undergraduate and early graduate studies and partnership potential with Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations. Duration and Value: One year; $17,500 (non-renewable).
- Doctoral Scholarship Program: The objective of the BC NEIHR Doctoral Scholarship program is to help develop research skills and assist in the training of Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) Doctoral students in British Columbia (BC) institutions, who demonstrate achievement in early graduate studies and partnership potential with Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations. Duration and Value: One year, $35,000 (non-renewable).
- Postdoctoral Fellowship Program: The objective of the BC NEIHR Postdoctoral Fellowships program is to provide funding to Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) postdoctoral applicants who wish to conduct research within a British Columbia (BC) host institution. Recipients of these fellowships demonstrate achievement in graduate studies, a research-intensive career pathway, as well as partnership potential with BC Indigenous communities, collectives and/or organizations (ICCOs). Duration and Value: $59,398 each year (varying duration).
- Information about each grant and all of the application materials can be found on our website under Funding: Graduate and Postdoctoral Funding. For any questions, please reach out to the Network Coordinator at bcneihr@uvic.ca.
- Deadline: February 1, 2024.
Click on each grant to learn more and to access application materials on our website:
- Research Development Grant: Each year, the BC NEIHR offers eight (8) Research Development Grants to Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) communities, collectives and organizations (ICCOs) for community outreach, relationship building and research development activities, including but not limited to: health research priority setting, health research partnership development, health research application development, and submission of ICCO/researcher applications to CIHR competitions or other funding agencies. Duration and Value: One year; $15,000 (non-renewable).
- Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization Grant: The BC NEIHR provides ten (10) Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization (KSM) Grants to Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) communities, collectives and organizations (ICCOs) annually to support teams who have completed ICCO-led research and wish to share the findings of their research in culturally and contextually relevant ways. These projects must be ICCO-led and focus on sharing ICCO-relevant research findings in widely accessible venues (e.g., First Nation, Métis, Inuit or urban Indigenous community spaces) and/or formats (e.g., oral presentations, stories, arts-based, etc.). Duration and Value: One year; $15,000 (non-renewable).
- If you have any questions about these funding opportunities, please reach out to the Network Coordinator at bcneihr@uvic.ca or the Indigenous Health Research Facilitator (IHRF) for your region.
- Deadline: January 15, 2024.
Our Internal Summary Report: BC Research Ethics Board Environmental Scan & Ethics Sharing Circles is now available to be viewed and shared! We invite others to share in this work and envision the ways in which their areas of expertise and activities may strengthen and intersect with shared priorities among institutions and organizations. We welcome any feedback, guidance, or thoughts on this shared initiative in order to move forward together.
The BC NEIHR is excited to share our Podcast, Research DE-Colonized: Ethical, Indigenous-Led Health and Wellness Research in Canada!
Join BC NEIHR Indigenous Health Research Facilitator, Laura McNab-Coombs, as she connects with inspiring Indigenous health and wellness scholars, healthcare professionals, and communities sharing their stories of how they’re decolonizing health and wellness research, changing healthcare and academe along the way. Topics of conversation will cover pathways into health and wellness research, techniques and research design, funding research, past and present health and wellness projects, and ethical research protocols when involving Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations.
Find us at: https://researchdecolonized.buzzsprout.com. This podcast is also hosted on Spotify, Podchaser, Player FM, and Podcast Addict. For more information on the podcast or the material presented, please contact lauramcnabcoombs@uvic.ca.
S1E6 - In this long (but thrilling!) episode, Laura sits down for a heartfelt, honest conversation with Tsimshian scholar Spencer Greening/La’goot to discuss his journey through academe. Covering a range of exciting topics, Spencer shares his experiences and thoughts on:
- Growing up out of his community and reconnecting to his roots;
- Doing research with and for his community
- When and where hereditary and colonial governance structures interface, as witnessed in his home community;
- Rebuilding and re-imaging our relationship to the land as a mechanism to combat environmental degradation and negative impacts of climate change;
- Navigating the complexities of cultural and community priorities, versus academic and institutional expectations and commitments
Research Funding
Click on each grant to learn more and to access application materials on our website:
- Research Development Grant: Each year, the BC NEIHR offers eight (8) Research Development Grants to Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) communities, collectives and organizations (ICCOs) for community outreach, relationship building and research development activities, including but not limited to: health research priority setting, health research partnership development, health research application development, and submission of ICCO/researcher applications to CIHR competitions or other funding agencies. Duration and Value: One year; $15,000 (non-renewable).
- Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization Grant: The BC NEIHR provides ten (10) Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization (KSM) Grants to Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) communities, collectives and organizations (ICCOs) annually to support teams who have completed ICCO-led research and wish to share the findings of their research in culturally and contextually relevant ways. These projects must be ICCO-led and focus on sharing ICCO-relevant research findings in widely accessible venues (e.g., First Nation, Métis, Inuit or urban Indigenous community spaces) and/or formats (e.g., oral presentations, stories, arts-based, etc.). Duration and Value: One year; $15,000 (non-renewable).
- If you have any questions about these funding opportunities, please reach out to the Network Coordinator at bcneihr@uvic.ca or the Indigenous Health Research Facilitator (IHRF) for your region.
- Deadline: January 15, 2024.
KPMG Research Seed Grant & Health Equity Fund. These annual grants aim to fund research teams and projects that:
- Align with Island Health’s priorities and goals to improve care and services in our communities, and achieve our vision of “Excellent health and care for everyone, everywhere, every time.”
- Engage people in research to gain experience, foster strong teams, and increase competitiveness for future funding opportunities.
Awards:
- 4 seed grants of up to $12,500 each through the KPMG Research Seed Grant Program
- 2 seed grants of up to $12,500 each for health equity projects in the Greater Victoria area that aim to advance health equity and eliminate health disparities by improving outcomes and/or access to health care and services for equity-deserving groups.
For more information and application materials, click here. Application Deadline: December 18, 2023 at 4 pm PDT.
2024 suite of funding programs: Advancing health research that improves health, saves lives, and strengthens BC’s economy. Michael Smith Health Research BC announced their 2024 suite of funding programs that provide opportunities for BC health researchers across all regions of the province. Learn more here.
Building research talent for BC’s future:
- Health Professional-Investigator – After a one-year pause, the HP-I Program is returning for the 2024 competition. The program supports health professionals who are actively involved in patient care to build their health research programs. Letter of Intent (LOI) Deadline: November 21, 2023, 4:30 p.m. PT.
- Scholar – The Scholar Program supports early career health researchers, helping them form their own research teams, train the next generation of scientists, and develop world-leading research programs. Letter of Intent (LOI) Deadline: November 21, 2023, 4:30 p.m. PT.
- Research Trainee – Applications Open November 2023. The Research Trainee Program supports the best and brightest health researchers in training to enable career development and support world-class health research in BC.
Mobilizing communities for research impact:
- Convening & Collaborating (C²) – Applications Open April 2024. Convening & Collaborating supports teams of health researchers and research users to co-develop research that can have direct impacts on people, including patients, health practitioners and policy makers.
- Reach – Applications Open April 2024. Reach supports teams of researchers and research users to disseminate research evidence with those who can directly benefit from it in order to impact health and care in BC.
Student Funding
- Master’s Scholarship Program: The objective of the BC NEIHR Master’s Scholarship program is to help develop research skills and assist in the training of Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) Master's students in British Columbia (BC) institutions, who demonstrate achievement in undergraduate and early graduate studies and partnership potential with Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations. Duration and Value: One year; $17,500 (non-renewable).
- Doctoral Scholarship Program: The objective of the BC NEIHR Doctoral Scholarship program is to help develop research skills and assist in the training of Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) Doctoral students in British Columbia (BC) institutions, who demonstrate achievement in early graduate studies and partnership potential with Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations. Duration and Value: One year, $35,000 (non-renewable).
- Postdoctoral Fellowship Program: The objective of the BC NEIHR Postdoctoral Fellowships program is to provide funding to Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) postdoctoral applicants who wish to conduct research within a British Columbia (BC) host institution. Recipients of these fellowships demonstrate achievement in graduate studies, a research-intensive career pathway, as well as partnership potential with BC Indigenous communities, collectives and/or organizations (ICCOs). Duration and Value: $59,398 each year (varying duration).
- Information about each grant and all of the application materials can be found on our website under Funding: Graduate and Postdoctoral Funding. For any questions, please reach out to the Network Coordinator at bcneihr@uvic.ca.
- Deadline: February 1, 2024.
Research Experience Award. The objective is to support Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) graduate students studying in British Columbia (BC), who are pursuing Indigenous wellness-related research and seeking to gain additional research-related experience. Duration and Value: $2,000 Regular Stream (short-term, non-renewable) or $7,000 for POR-focused Stream (please see our website for more information on Patient-Oriented Research). Eligibility: Indigenous graduate students in BC who have partnered with an Indigenous community, collective or organization (ICCO) to engage in a wellness-related research project that is mutually beneficial. Partnerships can form in response to a placement advertised by BC NEIHR or can be a pre-existing relationship. Applicants must be studying in and conducting research in British Columbia. Applicants must also have an Academic Mentor at an eligible institution for funds to be transferred. For more information and how to apply, click here. No Deadline: Research Experiences will be reviewed on a rolling basis, pending opportunities available for placements within ICCOs. Any student who has a pre-established relationship with an ICCO is eligible to submit an application with their ICCO partner at any time.
MHRC-Mitacs Indigenous Mental Health Studentships. Mental Health Research Canada (MHRC) is proud to partner with Mitacs on this funding opportunity for Indigenous university, college or postgraduate students across the country to work with their academic supervisor and partner with a local service provider or Indigenous community organization. The successful applicant will be awarded $15,000 for a four- or six-month term; funds will be paid directly to the student’s academic institution and held by the student’s supervisor. The project would need to begin before May 31st, 2024. For more information, eligibility, and how to apply, click here. Deadline: November 30, 2023, at 11:59 pm EDT.
Canadian Sleep Research Consortium - Indigenous Sleep Research Scholarship. One of the key objectives of the Consortium is to contribute to build capacity and knowledge for Indigenous sleep research. This scholarship valued at $17,500 for a one-year term will provide financial support to Indigenous students pursuing an interest (or studies) in sleep research at a Canadian institution. If you know an Indigenous student who is interested in sleep research but is not yet affiliated with the Consortium, please ask them to contact us at sleepconsortium@uottawa.ca. Program Details. Application Form. All applications must be received by Friday, December 1, 2023, at 4 pm ET.
Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS M) program. The CGS M program supports up to 3,000 students annually in all disciplines and is administered jointly by Canada’s three granting agencies: the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). The selection process and post-award administration are carried out at the institutional level, under the guidance of the three agencies. Students submit their application to the institution at which they intend to hold their award using the Research Portal. Application deadline: December 1, 2023.
Indigenous Scholars Awards and Supplements Pilot Initiative. Applicants who meet the eligibility requirements for this funding stream must apply through the CGS M program. Applicants select “Indigenous Scholars Award and Supplement Pilot Initiative” in the drop-down menu in the “Supplements/Joint Initiatives” section of the application form, under the “social sciences and/or humanities” or “natural sciences and engineering” field of research. Applicants must also submit a personal statement. In this statement, applicants must describe how their proposed research project, career and/or education goals have been informed by their experience as a First Nations, Inuit or Métis person. If appropriate, applicants can discuss their existing connection, or efforts to develop or re-establish a link, with their Indigenous community.
Health Sciences Association Scholarships and Bursaries: HSA members and their families are eligible to apply for a number of educational scholarships and bursaries. Applications for 2024 HSA scholarships and bursaries will be available in November 2023.
- HSA Bursaries for Indigenous Students. HSA provides two $1500 bursaries to Indigenous students from BC who are continuing or proceeding in any HSA-related field.
The RBC Future Launch Scholarship for Indigenous Youth will award 20 scholarships annually valued up to $10,000 each per year (up to 4 years) to First Nations, Inuit and Métis students across Canada demonstrating strong academic performance and community involvement. Applications will open from November 22, 2023, to February 7, 2024. Learn more here.
Build your own bright future with just one application! Hundreds of bursaries, scholarships, and awards. Since 2004, Indspire has provided over $153 million in financial support to more than 49,000 First Nations, Inuit and Métis students.
Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards for Post-Secondary Education and Skilled Trades. Full and part time studies in college, university, skilled trades, apprenticeships, and technology programs for the September 2023 – August 2024 academic year. There is one application for all of Indspire’s bursaries, scholarships, and awards (*with a few exceptions). You only need to complete the application once to be considered for all applicable bursaries, scholarships, and awards. Deadlines: August 1, November 1, and February 1 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. *For more information and to apply, click here.
Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP). Provides eligible First Nations students with funding to access education opportunities at the post-secondary level, including university and college entrance preparation programs. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application Deadlines:
- March 31, 2024 – for students applying for the Summer 2024 semester (May-August)
First Citizens Fund Student Bursary Program. Provides financial awards to Indigenous students enrolled in post-secondary education. Bursaries between $700-$1,200 are awarded to students who meet all eligibility requirements and who demonstrate significant financial need. Students apply for the bursary after they successfully complete a semester of post-secondary school. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application Deadlines:
- January 15, 2024 – for students applying for the Fall 2023 semester (September-December)
- May 15, 2024 – for students applying for the Winter 2024Semester (January-April)
Indigenous Disability Canada’s Support for Indigenous Student Learning Program (SISLP) is a time-limited project for Indigenous students across Canada who have limited financial resources, including those students living with disabilities. The SISLP is accepting applications from students of any age enrolled in a Formal educational institution (either online, remote, or through on-site learning) to be considered to receive a laptop and other technology / equipment supports necessary to assist with their continued education and success. For more information and how to apply, click here. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until March 15, 2024. Due to the limited funding and a high demand, it is recommended that applicants submit their completed application as early as possible. Please contact sislp@bcands.bc.ca if you need assistance with the application or have any questions.
The BC First Nations Forestry Council Indigenous Forestry Scholarship Program (IFSP) is designed to provide support for First Nations, Inuit or Métis students interested in attending full-time studies in the following applicable areas: Forestry Technician; Natural Resources; Environmental Technology; Business Management; Business Administration; Geographic Information Systems; and Forestry Trades. For more information and how to apply, click here. No Deadline.
Employment Opportunities
- Indigenous Health Research Facilitator (IHRF) - Northern Region. Under the supervision of the Nominated Principal Applicant, Dr. Jeff Reading, and Network Coordinator, Tara Erb, as well as working with the BC NEIHR key partners (First Nations Health Authority, Métis Nation BC, and BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres), and the BC SUPPORT Unit, the IHRF will undertake the following activities: Support Indigenous Communities, Collectives and Organizations (ICCOs); Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization (KSM), Event Coordination, Special Projects and Travel; and Communications and Training. For the full job posting and how to apply, click here. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
- Indigenizing Health Research Ethics Coordinator. Project: Indigenizing Health Research Ethics in BC with Indigenous Communities, Collectives and Organizations: Co-Create Wise Practices & Distinctions-Based Ethical Protocols in Indigenous Health Research. A 3-year Indigenous-led project funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research led by Dr. Krista Stelkia in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University. The Indigenizing Health Research Ethics project goal is to improve and advance Indigenous health research ethics practices and protocols in BC to be more culturally safe and grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems and distinctions-based guidelines. An innovative and Indigenous-led approach to achieving the overarching research goal and aims is grounded in a collaborative network of research ethics partners (Indigenous communities, collectives, organizations [ICCOs], research ethics boards [REBs], and Indigenous health researchers [IHRs]) that centers Indigenous ways of knowing in Indigenizing health research ethics in BC. Full-time (37.5 hours per week) position for a duration of 3 years. Salary: $70,000/year. Location: Remote work within BC. For the full job posting and how to apply, click here. Deadline: November 3, 2023. The successful candidate must be able to start by November 14, 2023.
- The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council (NTC) Health Department is seeking a term, full-time Research Associate Lead for its Indigenous Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative (I-HeLTI) Project, based out of Port Alberni. The project applies traditional Nuu-chah-nulth knowledge to inform activities and to reclaim positive pathways for promoting and sustaining healthy child development. The I-HeLTI Research Associate Lead will provide scientific leadership and liaise between NTC (NTC team members, Elders, communities, service providers) and academic partners (extended academic team). The role interprets and understands the research interests and priorities of the individuals and groups working within the I-HeLTI Project. To meet project goals, the I-HeLTI Project team will use both Indigenous knowledge and scientific methods to measure the wellbeing of children and families over time. Opportunity for a Research Associate affiliation with the Centre for Collaborative Action on Indigenous Health Governance at Simon Fraser University in partnership with BC’s First Nations Health Authority. To view the full posting and how to apply, click here. Open until filled.
- Coordinator - Indigenous Student Engagement. The Coordinator, Indigenous Student Engagement is responsible for the day-to-day operations, and participates in related strategic planning for Indigenous student engagement in EyēʔSqȃ’lewen: The Centre for Indigenous Education & Community Connections (IECC). This position collaborates to inform decision-making that impacts student engagement functions related to IECC and in support of the strategic goals of the college. The coordinator leads first point-of- contact services for prospective students, their families/supporters, and others on both campuses and at various off-site locations and events. Working closely with the Executive Director of IECC and other student support services in the college, this position ensures current and prospective students are provided with the necessary related details for possible and/or upcoming admissions. In addition, this position supervises and leads the Indigenous Advisor team at IECC. This position may work at both campuses, at Indigenous community sites, and may be required to travel. To read the full job description, visit Camosun's applicant portal, here. Deadline: November 12, 2023.
- Assistant Professor, Faculty of Native Studies - seeking applications for a full-time tenure-track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor in Indigenous health and wellness, specifically pertaining to determinants of health and well-being from the perspective of Indigenous peoples. Candidates should have knowledge and experience in areas such as, but not limited to the following: improving health and wellness in Indigenous communities; the relationship between wellness and cultural traditions and activities; and/or policy relating to Indigenous health and wellness. To view the posting and apply, click here. Open until filled.
- Lead, Indigenous Cultural Safety (ICS) & Evaluation. Vancouver Coastal Health is committed to improving the health and access to culturally safe healthcare of the Indigenous people in our region, and we recognize that we all have a contribution to make in reconciliation and healing. VCH’s Indigenous Health team works with staff and physicians across all programs and departments to provide strategic leadership, partner collaboration and community engagement to assist VCH to become a more culturally competent and safe organization. To view the job posting and apply, click here.
- To explore all Vancouver Coastal Health Career Opportunities, click here.
The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is a provincial organization established for the purpose of improving the health outcomes of Indigenous people by supporting and encouraging physically active individuals, families, and communities. The programs and services delivered by I·SPARC are designed to build capacity and increase access to sport, recreation, and physical activity in First Nations, Aboriginal Friendship Centres, Métis Chartered Communities, schools, and other delivery agencies throughout British Columbia.
- To view all current employment opportunities, click here.
Are you passionate about supporting the revitalization of First Nations languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC? First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) is a First Nations-led Crown Corporation that provides grants, training, coaching and resources to communities. We are a team of Indigenous people and allies, working together in pursuit of a vision where First Nations languages, arts and cultures are thriving and passed on to future generations. We offer an open and collaborative work environment guided by Indigenous values and we are seeking people with a passion for arts, heritage, language and technology to join our team.
- To see all current employment opportunities, click here.
The BCAAFC is the umbrella organization for the Friendship Centres across BC. BC Friendship Centres work to promote, develop and deliver accessible programs and services that support Indigenous peoples living in urban areas and away from home to achieve their vision of health, wellness and prosperity.
- To view all current BCAAFC career opportunities, click here.
Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) develops and enhances opportunities for our Métis communities by implementing culturally relevant social and economic programs and services. Through teamwork, respect, dedication, accountability, integrity, and professionalism, MNBC strives to build a proud, self-governing, sustainable Nation in recognition of inherent rights for our Métis citizens, assisting in the delivery of services based on policy, process, and specified regulations. Become part of the Métis Nation BC team and take an active role in shaping the Métis Nation in BC.
- To view all available MNBC career opportunities, click here.
The FNHA is a trailblazing organization filled with meaningful work and rich with transformative learning opportunities. Here you will find a sense of direction and belonging, with those who share your drive to create change in the world and in yourself – for the better.
Training and Events
Knowledge-to-Action Month | November 2023. Every November, the Island Health Research Department hosts a month of collaborative events, bringing together leaders and researchers, healthcare providers and patients to learn about the importance of translating evidence into practice to improve care and outcomes. All events will take place over Zoom, and all are welcome to attend. Get all the details and register for each session at https://www.islandhealth.ca/research-capacity-building/knowledge-action-month.
Join the session, A Model for Intercultural Collaboration in Psychedelic Research, on November 17, to hear BC NEIHR Indigenous Health Research Facilitator, Jimena Garcia, present the results of Participatory Action Research conducted for the Naut sa mawt Centre for Psychedelic Research (NCPR) during 2023. They developed a leadership model and designed a research methodological model based on a multiple-eyed seeing approach inquiry. With these models the NCPR aims to build capacity for creating a safe, culturally fluid, and decolonized environment for Indigenous participation in psychedelic research. This research was conducted in partnership with researchers from Vancouver Island University, BC Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research, Island Health, Royal Roads University and Roots to Thrive.
November 6, 2023 | 11:30 am - 1 pm (PST) - Pathways to Indigenous health - Inuit identity south of 60. This webinar examines Norma Dunning’s lived history as an Inuk who was born, raised and continues to live south of sixty. It takes into account the many assimilative practices that Inuit continue to face and the expectations of mainstream as to what an Inuk person can and should be. Click here to register on Zoom.
"Pathways to Indigenous health" is a series of webinars hosted by the NCCIH. Between September 2023 and April 2024, this series of webinars will explore a variety of topics related to the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. The series intends to strengthen the links between knowledge, policy, and practice, by supporting the educational journeys of healthcare workers, public health audiences, and beyond.
November 16, 2023 | 10 am to 11:30 am (PST) – Sharing Anishinaabe Health Research in Good Ways with Dr. Cindy Peltier Anishinaabe. This session will focus on how one researcher transformed research findings into teaching tools such as a film and online pedagogy grounded in Anishinaabe knowledge to respect community priorities. Learn more and register here.
The LEVEL Youth Policy Program (YPP) brings together Indigenous and racialized immigrant and refugee youth from across BC to provide training to shape and advocate for public policy that addresses issues impacting their lives.
YPP is a six-month program from February to September except July and August. During those two summer months, you will be working on a final policy project that you will have the opportunity to present to your cohort and community. In-person modules will take place between 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, three days a month. Online modules will take place between 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, four days a month. Optional virtual socials to connect with your peers in the evenings. Learn more and apply here. Applications close November 15, 2023.
Drop into an office hour. For those that have a quick question, we invite you to drop into one of the three office hours we’ll be holding (or attend all if other questions pop up for you). RSVPs are not required – just drop in and out whenever it works for you!
- Thursday, Nov. 2 from noon to 1 pm PT
- Wednesday, Nov. 8 from noon to 1 pm PT
- *All office hours will use the same Zoom link. Meeting ID: 816 6115 7449
If you have any questions, contact us at ypp@vancouverfoundation.ca.
Indigenous Public Health Training (IPH). Explore Canada’s only Indigenous Public Health professional development opportunity at UBC’s Faculty of Medicine. The Indigenous Public Health Training Institutes equip Indigenous community members and scholars with the necessary skills to address public health issues in Indigenous communities. One-week intensive courses are offered toward the completion of the Graduate Certificate or Certificate (non-credit) in Indigenous Public Health, or courses can be taken individually. Learn more and how to apply here. Application Deadline: November 30, 2023.
Sacred Journey has started touring and will travel amongst canoe nations in the Pacific Northwest and across Canada in the coming years.
Discover how the Tribal Canoe Journeys have catalyzed the revitalization of Indigenous culture, community healing, and youth empowerment on the Pacific Northwest Coast. To learn more, click here.
Call for Papers and Unique Opportunities
Call for papers: Jordan's principle. Title: The implementation of Jordan’s Principle across Canada: policy and practice lessons. Health Reform Observer – Observatoire des Réformes de Santé (HRO-ORS) invites papers, letters to the editor, and commentaries for a special issue exploring the implementation of Jordan’s Principle and the Inuit Child First Initiative. This special issue is an opportunity to share experiences with, explore barriers to, and highlight promising practices in the provision of Jordan’s Principle and Inuit Child First services. It is intended to create an opportunity for service providers, First Nations and Inuit leadership, and policy experts to share experiences with and reflections on efforts to achieve equitable and effective services for First Nations and Inuit children and families.
HRO-ORS strongly encourages submissions by Indigenous scholars, researchers, and practitioners, as well as the engagement of Indigenous service providers and leadership who have guided, led, or worked to implement Jordan’s Principle or Inuit Child First Initiative structures and services. For more information, click here. Deadline for full manuscript submissions: January 15, 2024.
Environmental Contaminants Program - supports First Nations projects that explore the link between human health and environmental contaminants. For more information and how to apply, click here.
Mental Health & Wellness Fund - supports Nations and aggregations of First Nations to come together to plan, design and deliver a full continuum of culture and strength-based mental health and wellness services, including prevention and early intervention. For more information and how to apply, click here.
First Peoples' Cultural Council (FPPC) Grant funding supports communities to revitalize their Indigenous languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC. To view all available grants, click here.
The RBC Emerging Indigenous Filmmaker Award provides financial support to a filmmaker and their current or future project or career goals. One recipient will be awarded $10,000 and two hours of mentorship and advice from Sonya Ballantyne, the Indigenous award advisor. Read the announcement on the National Screen Institute website. For more information and to apply, click here. Applications open until 5 pm, Central Time, December 6, 2023.
The Canada Council for the Arts champions and invests in artistic excellence through grants, services, prizes and payments to professional Canadian artists, groups and arts organizations. For a list of all available grants, click here.
Creating, Knowing and Sharing: The Arts and Cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. This program supports Indigenous individuals, groups, Indigenous-led arts organizations and arts/cultural sector development organizations that foster a vital and resilient Indigenous arts ecosystem. Program Components:
- Travel - grants support travel costs to attend significant events within Canada or abroad that advance your professional development, enable you or the artists you represent to access new markets or build national and international presence. Deadline: Any time before your departure date.
- Small-Scale Activities - funds activities that will advance your artistic career or practice. Deadline: Any time before the start date of your project.
- Short-Term Projects - grants provide support for any combination of eligible Creating, Knowing and Sharing activities for projects lasting up to 12 months. Deadlines: December 13, 2023 and March 20, 2024.
The Indigenous Peoples Resilience Fund is open for applications with a closing date of November 17, 2023.
Full eligibility is available in the Applicant Guide (which can be found here). Briefly, any Indigenous-led organization working to foster resilience in Inuit, Métis and First Nations communities anywhere in Canada can apply for resiliency support from $5,000 to $30,000.
You can apply in English, French, Inuktitut and Cree. If you are comfortable, it is suggested you use the online application portal. Contact them to submit a video or phone application. More information is available here.
Community Gaming Grants - provide $140 million annually to not-for-profit organizations throughout BC, to support their delivery of ongoing programs and services that meet the needs of their communities. For more information about these grants, including eligibility criteria, grant amounts, how and when to apply and more, click here.
- Human and Social Services - Organizations within this sector deliver programs that improve the quality of life in a community by supporting the wellbeing of children, youth, families and/ or seniors; by addressing equality issues (e.g., gender, LGBTQ2S+, race, etc.); by addressing the unmet needs of under-served groups; or, by providing public outreach and education regarding important social issues. Apply between August 1 and November 30.
Digital Museums Canada call for proposals is open.
- Digital Projects: With an investment of up to $250,000, develop an online project from the ground up in collaboration with a web development agency.
- Community Stories: With an investment of $25,000, develop an engaging story created with DMC’s website building platform.
- For more information, click here. Call closes: December 1, 2023.
- Register for Application Assistance if you want to learn more about the DMC investment program or strengthen your proposal.
- Enhance your digital skills with a free online course.
New Relationship Trust offers a range of funding initiatives supporting First Nation communities, organizations, and individuals through their journey towards greater self-sufficiency. Click here for an overview of all funding programs.
- New! Food Security & Sovereignty. The Indigenous Food Security & Sovereignty (IFS) Grant provides non-repayable funding contributions to First Nation communities, Indigenous organizations, businesses, and entrepreneurs in British Columbia that want to participate in and receive financial supports to develop, expand, or strengthen their Indigenous food systems and innovation to enhance sustainability and growth of the Indigenous agriculture and food sovereignty. The program offers two funding streams: Stream 1 provides up to $150,000 for planning and design activities; Stream 2 offers up to $250,000 for project implementation. Watch the YouTube video announcing the launch here. Intake Schedule: Intake #1: August 1, 2023, to December 1, 2023; Intake #2: May 1, 2024, to December 1, 2024; Intake #3: May 1, 2025, to December 1, 2025.
- Nation Building Grants - the Nation Building program provides multi-year funding opportunities to First Nations and Tribal Councils in British Columbia to support their nation building activities according to their self-determined priorities. A project or initiative meant to strengthen the institutional, governance, and community capacities in reclaiming and rebuilding resiliency, self-determination, and sovereignty, within each Nation’s own context is considered an eligible project. Deadline: December 1, 2023.
- Youth Grants - the Youth Grant program provides funding opportunities to youth groups in First Nation communities in British Columbia to support inclusiveness, belonging, physical and mental well-being, cultural, traditional, creative, and entrepreneurial activities all geared toward giving First Nation youth the tools, experiences, confidence, motivation, and teachings to be secure in their First Nation identity. Deadline: December 1, 2023.
- Elder Grants - the Elder Grant program provides funding opportunities to elder groups in First Nation communities in British Columbia to improve access and the quality of elder experiences and activities for maintaining inclusion, belonging, cultural, emotional, mobility, health, and physical well-being. Deadline: December 1, 2023.
- Language Grants - the Language Grant program provides funding opportunities to First Nation communities in British Columbia for initiatives that revitalize First Nation languages and supports activities that build capacity to encourage and create new fluent speakers. Deadline: December 1, 2023.
- Declaration Act Engagement Fund (DAEF) - provides multi-year (4 year) non-repayable funding contributions to First Nations to support their capacity to engage with the Province of B.C. on the implementation of the Declaration Act Action Plan and alignment of Provincial laws with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples both of which must be done in consultation and co-operation with Indigenous Peoples in BC. The Declaration Act Engagement Fund will accept new applications during New Relationship Trust’s annual funding cycle between May and December each year.
The Future Generations (FG) Foundation accepts applications for funding for programs aimed at education, healing and reconciliation, and cultural knowledge building. The goal of the FG Foundation is to help First Nations, Métis people and communities address the impacts of the Indian residential school's system, and to provide resourcing to create meaningful opportunities that improve the quality of life for First Nations and Métis people.
The Call for Groups/Organizations Applications will open in November 2023. For more information, click here.
Call for participants! The STORY Project: Improving Access to Family Planning for Indigenous Peoples through Storytelling. For more information, visit https://www.storyproject.ca/.
- Interim Applications for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act 2023-2025. The call for Interim Applications for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Act, developed in partnership with the Assembly of First Nations, is intended to support First Nations efforts in addressing the priorities they have identified to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen First Nations languages and First Nations governed initiatives in collaboration with federal departments and agencies, and other First Nations, provincial or territorial governments as desired and appropriate. To be eligible for funding, you must be a First Nation organization within Canada. “First Nation organization”, refers to an organization owned and controlled by First Nation persons, including a First Nation-owned corporation or a First Nation-controlled non-profit organization, that directly delivers language revitalization services or that otherwise supports the delivery of language revitalization services. First Nation applicants applying to the Department of Canadian Heritage are required to read the Interim Application Guidelines in its entirety for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Act and contact the Department of Canadian Heritage to request an application package and submit the required documentation. For how to apply and contact information, click here. Application Deadline: Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis for 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 fiscal years.
- Legacy Fund – Building Communities through Arts and Heritage. Building Communities through Arts and Heritage - Legacy Fund component provides funding for community-initiated capital projects, intended for community use. Recipients may receive up to 50 per cent of eligible project expenses up to a maximum of $500,000. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application deadline: Projects must be submitted before the anniversary date of the event or personality to be commemorated.
The Doulas for Aboriginal Families Grant Program (DAFGP) provides grants to increase access to full-spectrum doula services for Indigenous families residing in BC (on- and off-reserve). The DAFGP is offered by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres, First Nations Health Authority, and the BC Ministry of Health. The goal of the program is to increase healthy birth outcomes for Indigenous families by removing the cost barrier to accessing doula services. The grant program provides Indigenous families living in BC up to $1,000.00 (maximum) of coverage for full spectrum doula support with each pregnancy. For more information and to apply, click here.
Share your Views: Participate in the CIHR Institute of Gender and Health's Listening Tour. The Institute of Gender and Health (IGH) wants to hear from you! Beginning in spring 2023, the IGH team will travel to major cities across Canada to meet with researchers, including trainees and early career researchers, community organizations, healthcare professionals and many other partners, with options for virtual participation. For more information or to complete the online survey, click here.
The Turtle Island Journal of Indigenous Health team is looking for new members! No prior experience is required to apply. These are remote positions open to students and community members across Turtle Island who are interested in promoting TIJIH's vision: Respectful co-learning between Indigenous ways of knowing and western science; Collaborating and partnering with Indigenous Peoples in knowledge generation and capacity-building; Building a community of practice that honours relationality as a model of high-impact engagement. To learn more and apply, click here.
The Support Network for Indigenous Women and Women of Colour (SNIWWOC). SNIWWOC is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to the empowerment of women with food, art, and education. SNIWWOC operates from a holistic and integrative service model that addresses the social, cultural and political realities of women who identify as black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC). Headquartered in Victoria BC, they offer programs and services in BC, Alberta, and Ontario. Click here to learn more, access services and get involved!
Are you an Indigenous graduate student studying at a BC institution? Submit a selfie of yourself outside, with a short description of yourself (community, institution, program, research interests, etc.) and enter for a chance to win a $50 gift card to your institution’s bookstore! Must be a registered member of the BC NEIHR. Email bcneihr@uvic.ca for more details.
To find out more or to get involved please visit the National website at https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/ or for pre-registration information, visit https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/pre-registration-information/.
IndigiNews is dedicated to covering the news in a way that allows for your stories to be heard, understood and respected. IndigiNews was created through a partnership between Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and The Discourse. The goal of this partnership is two-fold: first, to provide journalism that serves and is driven by what local communities say they want. Second, to experiment with new business models for digital local news that contribute to the long-term sustainability of independent Indigenous news in Canada. Click here to subscribe to the Indiginews Newsletter and/or to sign up for the email course. You can help decolonize the media by becoming an IndigiNews supporter, visit https://indiginews.com/support-us to donate today.