The Three Sisters—corn, beans, and squash—is a form of Indigenous sustainable agriculture that involves the practice of intercropping or companion planting, where plants are grown next to each other for mutual benefit. This Indigenous sustainable agricultural practice invites environmental stewardship, increases the quality of life of Indigenous Peoples, and helps communities to achieve food sovereignty (https://indigenousclimatehub.ca/2023/06/the-three-sisters-as-indigenous-sustainable-agricultural-practice/). Read The Three Sisters Legend recorded by Lois Thomas of Cornwall Island, Canada. It is one of a collection of legends compiled by students at Centennial College, Toronto, Canada (https://library.rrc.ca/c.php?g=709597&p=5055778).
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
Click on each grant to learn more and to access application materials on our website: Research Development Grant; Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization Grant. 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.
BC NEIHR Principal Investigator and Governing Council Member, Dr. Evan Adams has been announced as the acting associate dean Indigenous Health and senior advisor for the SFU Medical School. Dr. Adams served on the Admissions and Learner Experience Working Group, providing input to the SFU Medical School’s business case, and is a visiting professor in the Faculty of Health Sciences.
A proud community member of Coast Salish Tla’amin Nation, Dr. Adams is a past Chief Medical Officer of the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). He currently acts as Deputy Chief Medical Officer, where he champions the improvement of overall public health and wellness of First Nations communities in B.C. and advocates for the transformation of health care systems in service of culturally safe care. Read the full announcement here.
BC NEIHR Network Coordinator, Tara Erb, and Principal Investigator, Dr. Krista Stelkia, have published an article in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health on the work the BC NEIHR is doing with Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations in BC. Read "Best Practices to Support the Self-Determination of Indigenous Communities, Collectives, and Organizations in Health Research through a Provincial Health Research Network Environment in British Columbia, Canada" here.
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. Our first episode features Laura as she introduces listeners to the Who, What, and Why of the BC NEIHR, our programming and funding opportunities, and what to expect in future episodes. Episodes will be released on the last Friday of every month. 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; Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization Grant. 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.
Information Sessions for Applicants:
- Thurs. October 5 (11 - 12 pm)
- Thurs. October 19 (12 - 1 pm)
- Register to attend
For more information and application materials, click here. Application Deadline: December 18, 2023 at 4 pm PDT.
Catalyst Grant: Healthy Youth (2023). Sponsors: CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH), in partnership with the CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health (IPPH), and Indigenous Services Canada - First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (ISC-FNIHB). This catalyst grant funding opportunity is part of the Healthy Youth Initiative led by the CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH). It aims to help identify and develop emerging research foci relevant to at least one of the six priority areas of Canada's Youth Policy, foster networking and collaboration, and build capacity for youth engagement in health research. To learn more and apply, click here. Registration deadline: October 12, 2023. Application deadline: November 8, 2023.
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 – Applications Open October 2023. 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.
- Scholar – Applications Open October 2023. 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.
- 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
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. 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.
M’akola Development Services (MDS) is a professional development consulting firm committed to supporting vibrant, diverse communities in British Columbia.
- Tom Finnie Indigenous Trades Bursary. Six bursaries will be awarded over six regions to Indigenous students enrolled in a trades program. Each bursary will be in the amount of $2,500. For more information and how to apply, click here. Deadline: October 27th, 2023.
- M’akola Development Services (MDS) Scholarships & Bursaries
Bill and Elsie More First Nations Bursary. The Bursary is intended for First Nations students enrolled in a recognized post secondary course of studies, who are experiencing financial need. The award is for amounts up to $1000. Preference is given to students who have already completed part of their program of studies and who may be unable to finish because of their financial situation. For more information and how to apply, click here. The deadline for applications is the end of October.
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.
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:
- November 1, 2023 – for the Winter 2024 semester (January-April)
- 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.
The Discourse provides community-powered journalism to underserved communities.
- Partnerships Specialist - Vancouver Island. Discourse Community Publishing (DCP) is seeking a qualified candidate to fill a full time, permanent partnerships specialist role, focused engaging the businesses community through sponsorship, advertising, and other revenue generation agreements. This position in based on Vancouver Island, B.C. on the traditional territories of the Snuneymuxw, K’ómoks, Quw'utsun, Ts'uubaa-asatx, Ditidaht, Malahat and Pacheedaht First Nations. This position is focused on supporting existing clients in our Cowichan and Nanaimo outlets, as well as developing new client relationships in these and other Vancouver Island markets. To view the job posting and apply, click here. Deadline: October 10, 2023.
- To explore all current openings, click here.
- Ministry of Health Policy Analyst. The position works to support the new Health Equity Office, responsible for developing and implementing strategic policies, frameworks, and initiatives that advance health equity using a GBA+ lens, supporting progress on improving equity by taking action to advance Indigenous governance and self-determination, as well as acting on the determinants of health. Flexible work options are available; this position may be able to work up to 5 days at home per week subject to an approved telework agreement. Employees of the BC Public Service must be located in BC at the time of employment. 2 Permanent Positions available. 1 Temporary opportunity available until August 16, 2024, this temporary opportunity may become permanent. For the full job posting and to apply, click here. Deadline: October 13, 2023.
- Minister’s Advisory Council on Indigenous Women (MACIW) - Seeking 2 New Council Members (1 youth aged 19-29 years). MACIW is comprised of up to 10 Indigenous women from across BC. Council members are appointed by the Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation based on a criteria of diversity, experience and regional representation. MACIW provides advice to the government on how to improve the quality of life for Indigenous women by offering guidance and direction that is rooted in Indigenous worldviews. Their work focuses on ending violence against Indigenous women and girls. For more information, please visit their website here. For the Notice of Position and details on how to apply, click here. The deadline for applications is October 18, 2023.
Indigenous Coordinator, Protocols Project. The Fraser Salish Indigenous Protocols for Health Research and Program Evaluation project team is seeking a Coordinator who self-identifies as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit). The team is made up of members from Fraser Health Authority, First Nations Health Authority, Métis Nation BC, BC Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research, Simon Fraser University and BC SUPPORT Unit, and is funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
This project aims to support safe and inclusive engagement of Indigenous Peoples in research and evaluation activities done by health care workers in the Fraser Salish region. The end products will include protocols and training resources to guide health care workers. The protocols will also be made available to Indigenous communities to use and adapt as they wish. Seeking a self-identified Indigenous graduate student or community member for this role. Other qualifications include: a completed Bachelor's degree in a health or social-related discipline and experience in Indigenous community engagement, coordination of event logistics, compilation of information and report writing.
This position will be paid at $37 per hour. The duration of the contract is 6 months, with a possibility of extension. The hours will be flexible and will depend on the amount and timing of work that needs to be done or events that need to be coordinated, but an average weekly hourly range would be 5-15 hours per week. For the full job posting and how to apply, click here. Deadline: October 30, 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.
- Tenure-track Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) - Indigenous Health Governance. Seeking a scholar whose program of research uses Indigenous methodologies to build Indigenous peoples’ right to self-determine their own health and wellness journeys. The successful applicant will be familiar with the provincial health system, as well as have established partnership/partnerships with Indigenous nations, communities, and/or organizations, in British Columbia (BC), Canada. To read the full description with application instructions, click here. The competition will remain open until the position is filled.
- To explore all current SFU career opportunities, click here.
- Associate Vice-President, Indigenous - Reporting to the President, the Associate Vice-President, Indigenous (AVPI), is a member of the University’s senior leadership team. The incumbent will work collaboratively with the President’s Executive Leadership Team to provide strategic leadership, oversight, advice, and guidance at an institutional level in support of UNBC’s commitment to Indigenous student educational achievement, community engagement and Reconciliation. Location: Prince George, BC. For more information and how to apply, click here.
- To view all current UNBC career opportunities, click here.
- 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.
- Leader, Indigenous Engagement. The Leader, Indigenous Engagement, will play a critical role in helping VCH collaborate, consult and communicate with First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities across the region through transparent, respectful, and meaningful engagement. This is part of our continued commitment to the Provincial Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility, the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions Calls to Action, and the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People. To view the job posting and apply, click here.
- To explore all Vancouver Coastal Health Career Opportunities, click here.
Recruiting Indigenous Students to work with the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer on our Unlearning & Undoing White Supremacy Project. We have begun a two-year initiative of unlearning and undoing inherited systemic white supremacy and racism within the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO) that will contribute to development of a plan to address the Government of BC’s foundational commitments to rights and reconciliation across the OPHO’s mandates. Reconciliation requires being trustworthy, creating cultural safety, and making things right with the original inhabitants of these territories. The OPHO’s ongoing efforts to earn and maintain the trust of Indigenous Peoples, as well as racialized communities in BC, center on unlearning and undoing systemic white supremacy and racism inherited from the settler colonial origins of BC’s institutions. Over the next two years we will seek to:
- Illuminate which OPHO structures, policies, practices, norms, and values currently uphold systemic white supremacy and racism.
- Begin to unlearn and undo white supremacy and racism within the OPHO.
- Inform a path forward to uphold, embrace, and monitor progress towards, ‘foundational commitments’ within the OPHO’s work.
We are guided by the wisdom of Dr. Camara Jones, former president of the American Public Health Association, who launched a national campaign against racism. Her ‘Science & Practice of Anti-Racism’ framework outlines three tasks: (1) naming racism; (2) asking, how is it operating here?; and (3) organizing and strategizing to act. There is opportunity for Indigenous student(s) to contribute to elements of this work during their practicum or elective rotation. For more information, contact: kate.jongbloed@gov.bc.ca and daniele.behnsmith@gov.bc.ca
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.
- BC First Nations Arts Vitality Research Project. The FPCC Arts Program is looking for a consultant or a consulting company to support a two-year project. The project aims to understand the state or vitality of First Nation arts revitalization in B.C. and the current and future needs of First Nation communities in B.C. Learn more about this project, its goals and how to submit a proposal here. Deadline: October 12, 2023.
- 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
October 6, 2023 | 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM PDT - Health Justice: Anti-Racism for Healthcare Workers. Online webinar from Support Network for Indigenous Women & Women of Colour (SNIWWOC). Are you a healthcare professional looking to gain a foundational understanding of anti-racism? Do you want to learn about the importance of equity in your workplace? We are offering a one time, online, equity workshop for healthcare professionals! Focusing on decolonization, reconciliation, anti-racism and inclusion. This workshop is designed to offer you foundational understanding on how to create equity and safety in the healthcare sector. We will talk about tools you can use, bystander intervention, internal bias and ways to be an active disruptor of racist systems. All participants will be offered a deliverable after the workshop to keep the conversation going.
Spaces are limited. Seats are by donation, with all donations going towards supporting our amazing programs and services that help to create equity for BIPOC women/femmes/ 2S and non-binary folks across Canada. Register on eventbrite.
October 10, 11, 12 and 18 | 11 am to 1 pm (Pacific Time) | Virtual, with a hybrid session on October 12 - Interior Health Research Week 2023. The IH Research Department and BC SUPPORT Interior Centre, in partnership with the British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research (BC NEIHR) and the Rural Coordination Centre of BC (RCCbc), will host a series of virtual educational dialogues and presentations to showcase and share research happening within the Interior region of BC and beyond! For the schedule of events and to register, visit evenbrite.
October 12, 2023 | 10 a.m. to 11:30 am (PST) – Warriors Against Violence Society: A Story of Change with Joyce Fossella. Free Zoom webinar from UBC Learning Circle. "A victim’s story of how a men’s program addressing violent behaviors changed her life when the perpetrator participated in a unique program that incorporates tools, culture and spirituality." For more information and to register, click here.
October 18, 2023 | 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm (PST) - We’re Still Dancing Around the Table: Reconstituting our Sensibilities about Truth, Reconciliation and Redress. This virtual event is presented by the UBC Faculty of Medicine Indigenous Speakers Series. In this Indigenous Speaker Series session, we will have a conversation with Chief Bill Wilson – Hemas KlaLeeLeeKla, Founding Signatory of the BC Treaty Commission and Founding Chairman of the BC First Nations Congress (First Nations Summit). He will bring both truth and truthfulness about past and present contexts of our collective struggle to negotiate Indigenous peoples’ legitimate and proper place in British Columbia and Canada. He remains a pillar of determination for Indigenous peoples, and continues to inspire the very political processes that he helped to create and influence. Seemingly, we’re still dancing around the table to really get at coming to terms with the things we’ve labelled as truth, reconciliation and redress. Hemas KlaLeeLeeKla will tell us what he believes to be necessary in efforts to reconstruct, to reorganize, to shift, to transform, and to fundamentally arrive at a sensibility that places Indigenous people at the heart of this great country and its constitution. For more information and to register, click here.
October 24, 2023 | 8:00 am – 5:00 pm | Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront, Vancouver | Hybrid event - Putting Patients First 2023: Changing landscapes and learning together for sustainable patient-oriented research. Putting Patients First (PPF) is an annual conference that fosters collaboration and learning about patient experiences in the health system. Join us to help build a provincial care system with patients and families at the centre. There is no cost to attend. For more information and to register, click here. Hosted by Michael Smith Health Research BC in partnership with British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research (BC NEIHR); Canadian Primary Care Research Network; Can-SOLVE CKD; CHILD-BRIGHT; Health Data Research Network Canada; and Passerelle – SPOR National Training Entity. Don't miss the BC NEIHR Conference session: Applications of Indigenous Cultural Safety Frameworks in Patient-Oriented Research (hybrid).
The 24th annual imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival will take place October 17-22, 2023 (Toronto) and October 23-29, 2023 (online).
As the largest presenter of Indigenous screen content, we invite you to participate in Artistic and Industry programs over the Festival; showcasing Film + Video, Digital + Interactive, and Audio works created by Indigenous artists (including directors, producers, writers, and designers) at all levels of experience. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.
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.
Registration for GOV 2024 opens on October 30 at 10 a.m. (PDT).
Things to note:
- GOV is open to youth ages 14 to 24. There must be at least one chaperone for every five youth under age 18.
- Payment will not be due on Registration Day (but you can pay then if you’d like to!). Tickets cost $250 a person. The cost is the same for both delegates and chaperones.
- If you buy five tickets, your 6th will be free! To ensure more communities and groups are able to register for tickets, group ticket bundles will be limited to 12 tickets per group.
Visit the website https://gatheringourvoices.ca/ to sign up for the newsletter and to register on October 30.
Call for Papers and Unique Opportunities
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 Mentor-Apprentice Program (MAP) supports the development of fluent speakers of BC First Nations languages through one-on-one immersion. Deadline: October 23, 2023.
- For more information on the program details and eligibility, view the guidelines posted on the MAP program page.
- Learn more about FPCC’s Mentor-Apprentice Program (MAP) in this overview video.
Creative BC funding programs drive creation and export of domestic creative content. From development support to international trade fair presence, our programs and activities aim to: optimize funding opportunities for projects and companies; grow BC’s ecosystem of support in which creative entrepreneurs can thrive; and give BC’s creative industries access to the national supports and international markets that will increase our province’s success in the sector. Explore all Creative BC Funding Programs here.
- Rogers Indigenous Film Fund (RIFF) Program - gives companies and creators financing assistance for early development work of a new project, or ‘next phase’ early development work of an existing project. Eligible applicants can apply for up to $20,000 to cover qualifying activities such as research and development, community engagement, as well as scriptwriting. Designed in close consultation with the Indigenous community and industry, eligible filmmakers and creatives can now apply. Online Application Deadline: Thursday October 19, 2023, 11:59pm PST. If applying by mail, the application must be postmarked no later than October 19, 2023.
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 TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund offers grants up to $50,000 for Indigenous-led social, health and community programs. To find out more and apply, click here. Closes on October 13 at 23:59 (local time).
Canadian Journal of Native Education Call for Papers. The Canadian Journal of Native Education (CJNE) invites Indigenous scholars and allies to submit articles, book reviews and creative storyworks for our final hardcover and first online open access edition of the journal. Scholars are encouraged to explore issues, ideas, innovations and emergent concerns related to Indigenous education in Canada and in other colonial contexts around the world. We welcome submissions that prioritize Indigenous ways of knowing and research methodologies in the field of education from community, K-12, and post-secondary perspectives. Submission instructions can be found here. Submissions will be accepted until Nov 1, 2023 at 11:59pm PST.
The Indigenous Peoples Resilience Fund will reopen again for application in October 2023, 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.
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/.
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