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BC NEIHR

May 2026

Balsamroot is a relative of the sunflower. It grows from British Columbia and Alberta to California. It can grow in low plains and valleys to elevations of 2,700 metres. This is a resilient plant, built to withstand landscape changes. Balsamroot may take five to ten years to establish, but when it does, it grows well in community with other plants. It is highly drought-resistant, has good winter hardiness, tolerates semi-shade, and is tolerant of grazing and trampling. Balsamroot may be ‘top-killed’ by fire, but its strong and persistent root allows it to regenerate following most fires. Balsamroot is an important plant for many animals. It is food for a variety of livestock, like sheep, cattle, horses, and wildlife like mice and deer. More importantly, it becomes available for wildlife early on in the season, when many animals are searching for food. It also acts as a cover for small mammals and birds, especially grouse.

Funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health (IIPH), the BC NEIHR is one of nine Indigenous-led networks across Canada that support research leadership among Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) communities and organizations (ICOs). The purpose of the Network Environments for Indigenous Health Research Program is to establish a national network of centres focused on capacity development, research and knowledge translation (KT). This network of centres provides supportive research environments for Indigenous health research led by, and grounded in, Indigenous communities in Canada.

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:

https://www.fnha.ca/
https://bcaafc.com
https://www.mnbc.ca/

If you would like to join the British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research, please fill out the BC NEIHR Membership Registration Form and email it to admin_bcneihr@sfu.ca.

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!

We respectfully and gratefully acknowledge the BC NEIHR is housed within the Centre for Collaborative Action on Indigenous Health Governance located on the unceded territories and traditional lands of the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations.

BC NEIHR UPDATES

The BC NEIHR is seeking a highly motivated full-time (37.5 hours per week) Indigenous Research Liaison (IRL) to join our team! Under the supervision of the Nominated Principal Investigator Dr. Krista Stelkia (SFU; BC NEIHR; CCAIHG), Program Manager, Elizabeth Hunter (BC NEIHR), as well as working with BC NEIHR’s governance partners (First Nations Health Authority, Métis Nation BC, and BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres), and collaborators such as the BC SUPPORT Unit, the IRL will undertake the following activities:

  • Relationship Building
  • Liaison & Facilitation
  • Mentorship
  • Navigation
  • Other Communications and Training

Application Details:

  • Status: Full-time position (37.5 hours/week) for a one-year contract, with the possibility of extension.
  • Annual Salary: $70,000 full-time
  • Location: Remote (based in BC). Occasional travel required throughout BC, including community and partner outreach and attendance of in-person events and meetings.
  • Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
  • View Full Job Description

Application Process: Send your application package, including cover letter, CV/resume and Experience Statement (see below) via email to: bcneihr@sfu.ca. Use the subject line to clearly state the position you are applying for (e.g., "NAME OF THE POSITION Application"). Experience Statement: As part of the application package, please include a 1-2 page Experience Statement that outlines why you are interested in this position and your experience in providing research support and conducting community engagement with Indigenous peoples and communities. This is an opportunity to highlight in a narrative format key aspects of your work, education, training or other experiences that make you a suitable candidate for this position. Please consider the activities listed under Position Summary when creating your Experience Statement. Graduate students in BC are encouraged to apply. If you are a current graduate student interested in a full-time position, you must include your time management plans in your cover letter to demonstrate how you will balance your studies with the full-time role. We thank all applicants for their interest. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

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https://www.sfu.ca/bcneihr.html

Research Funding

Health Research BC acknowledges that colonization and systemic racism have critically impacted the past and ongoing health and wellbeing of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples. We know that inequities exist within the health research system that perpetuate harm to Indigenous peoples and communities. To that end, we have created commitments to Indigenous reconciliation to guide us in fulfilling our role and responsibilities as BC’s health research agency. Our commitments are informed by important relationships, including with the BC Network Environment on Indigenous Health Research (BC NEIHR) and the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA); learning from Indigenous advisors and colleagues, key reports, and other research agencies that are on this important journey. Our aim is transformative, yet we have foundational work to do, and a lot to both learn and unlearn. We will approach this work in the spirit of humility, care, and curiosity. To learn more about Health Research BC's commitments to Indigenous reconciliation, click here.

CIHR REDI Early Career Transition Award 2025. The CIHR Research Excellence, Diversity and Independence (REDI) Early Career Transition Award Program is intended to advance scientific excellence and foster diversity in Canada’s research ecosystem. It supports the professional development and career progression of trainees to establish and sustain strong, independent research programs in academia. The 2025 launch of the program (REDI 2025) expands its focus to include racialized gender-diverse people and First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, and reaffirms CIHR and its partners’ commitments to advancing scientific excellence by fostering a research environment that values and supports diversity, representation, equity, inclusion and Indigenous rights. Learn more and apply on ResearchNet. Application Deadline: June 16, 2026.

Team Grant: Funding Research for Evidence in School Food and Health (FRESH). School food programs (SFPs) provide children and youth with meals and/or snacks at school, often at no-to-low cost for participating families. In Canada, SFPs largely fall under the jurisdiction of provinces and territories (PTs), with wide variation in programming across the country, reflecting diverse regional priorities and approaches to SFP delivery, both within and across jurisdictions. Launched in 2024-25 with an investment of $1 billion over five years, the National School Food Program (NSFP) is supporting provinces, territories, and Indigenous partners to enhance and expand access to SFPs across Canada, with a proposal in Budget 2025 to introduce legislation and provide funding for program permanence. There are significant gaps in the available school food data and research in Canada, including a fulsome understanding of the barriers and facilitators to program participation, promising practices for program delivery in different contexts and SFPs' social and health impacts for youth, families and communities across regions, populations and settings. These evidence gaps limit our understanding of SFPs in Canada, including their related benefits, limitations and opportunities (in the health realm and beyond), and hamper opportunities for partners and policymakers at all levels (i.e., federal, PT, municipal, community) to make evidence-informed decisions about program design, delivery and policies. The Team Grant: Funding Research for Evidence in School Food and Health (FRESH) aims to generate actionable, high-quality evidence to inform and improve school food policy, programming and practice across Canada. This funding opportunity supports intersectoral, interdisciplinary research led by a tripartite leadership team composed of researchers, decision-makers, and knowledge users. Registration Deadline: June 25, 2026 Application Deadline: October 7, 2026

Student Funding

Shannen’s Dream Scholarship. The Shannen’s Dream Scholarship is an award to assist First Nations youth with post-secondary education costs (university, college, trades). As a “pay-it-forward” scholarship, winners must make a fair and measurable contribution to the Shannen’s Dream campaign or related First Nations initiative as a condition of receiving the award. Examples of this could include coaching youth sports, doing a presentation about Shannen Koostachin and Shannen’s Dream, starting a club at your school to learn more about equity, etc. Pay-it-forward does not mean a financial contribution back to the scholarship. With the support of our funders, we are able to announce two $10,000 scholarships for 2026! Open to First Nations youth 30 years and under enrolled in a post-secondary program (university, college or trade school) at a Canadian institution and returning for the Fall 2026 semester. For additional information and eligibility, click here. Deadline is May 31, 2026, at 11:59 pm Eastern Time.

The FG Foundation provides financial support through three distinct channels: Organizations, Individuals, and the Continuing Their Journey Program. Our goal is to help First Nations and communities address the impacts of the Indian residential school system. We support initiatives like cultural preservation, education, and healing, with tailored eligibility criteria, grant limits, and timelines to meet the diverse needs of First Nations. Individual Funding. The Future Generations Foundation (FG Foundation) supports First Nations individuals in pursuing education, healing, and cultural learning opportunities. Through our Individual Funding Program, we provide scholarships, training support, and cultural learning awards that nurture identity, strengthen skills, and foster connection to community and culture. Whether in classrooms, on the land, or within cultural spaces, this program helps individuals realize their aspirations while contributing to collective healing and resurgence. Application deadline is June 5, 2026, 5:00 PM EDT. Late applications will not be accepted.

BioTalent Canada’s I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship supports Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility (IDEA) leadership for first-year students entering bioscience programs. Eligibility:

  • Entering your first year only of a biosciences-related program at an accredited Canadian college, university or CEGEP. Students beyond first year or in non-biosciences programs will be screened out.
  • Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person (proof via transcript or acceptance letter). International students are not eligible.
  • Identify as one of: Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, Métis); Persons with Disability (qualify for Disability Tax Credit); Newcomer to Canada (immigrant, refugee or permanent resident with fewer than 5 years in Canada)
  • Demonstrate IDEA leadership: Everyday wins like starting a diversity club, helping peers overcome barriers or inclusive projects count. ​

Awards: Three $10,000 scholarships ($5,000 for CEGEP) – one per category. Niche focus offers stronger odds than broader national programs. Deadline: June 8, 2026

The Chief Joe Mathias British Columbia Aboriginal Scholarship Fund invites eligible BC First Nations students to apply for its 2026 scholarship programs listed below. Each program reflects the Fund’s commitment to supporting students in diverse fields of study and expanding opportunities for Indigenous leadership across British Columbia. 2026 Chief Joe Mathias BC First Nations Multi‑Disciplinary Scholarship Supporting BC First Nations students pursuing post‑secondary or graduate studies in any academic discipline, this long‑standing scholarship continues the Fund’s legacy of empowering students to achieve their educational and career goals. Eligible students are encouraged to apply and take the next step in their academic journey. Deadline: June 19, 2026, at 11:59 pm (PDT).

2026 Chief Joe Mathias BC First Nations Nursing Scholarship

Launched in 2025 through funding from the Province of British Columbia’s Ministry of Health, this scholarship is now in its second annual call for applications. It supports BC First Nations students pursuing or continuing studies in nursing, helping strengthen Indigenous leadership in healthcare and address the growing need for First Nations nurses across the province. Deadline: June 12, 2026, at 11:59 pm (PDT).

2026 Chief Joe Mathias BC First Nations Teacher Scholarship

Established with financial assistance from the Ministry of Education and Child Care, this scholarship supports BC First Nation students to complete a teacher education program at a BC public post-secondary institution. Deadline: June 12, 2026, at 11:59 pm (PDT). Learn more, including how to apply, here.

BC First Nations Student Scholarship and Bursaries. The First Nation Scholarships, Bursaries, and Grants program provides financial support to BC First Nations students pursuing post-secondary education. BC First Nations Bursaries are awarded to students pursuing Certificates, Diplomas, Trades and Associate degrees. BC First Nations Scholarships are awarded at the Undergraduate, Masters, and Doctorate levels. Application submissions open May 15, 2026 and will close August 7, 2026, at 4:00 PM.

BC First Nations Public Service Scholarship. This scholarship aims to provide support for Indigenous professionals to access training related to the administration or management of public services in their First Nation government. The scholarship is valid for up to two years in the amount of up to $1,500 and will be provided to the successful candidate as a voucher to the specified post-secondary institution upon proof of registration. Applications must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m. on October 15, 2026, with notification to the successful candidate being given by the Local Government Management Association by December 15, 2026, at the latest. 

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. 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 pm 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:

  • July 1, 2026 – For students attending in the Fall (September–December 2026)

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.

This bursary is awarded after the successful completion of the semester. Please submit your application within a few weeks of the end of the semester for which you are applying. Application Deadlines:

  • May 15, 2026 – for students applying for the Winter 2026 semester (January -April 2026)
  • This bursary is awarded after the successful completion of the semester. Please submit your application within a few weeks of the end of the semester for which you are applying.

Indigenous Communities and Organizations (ICO) Funding

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.

The FG Foundation provides financial support through three distinct channels: Organizations, Individuals, and the Continuing Their Journey Program. Our goal is to help First Nations and communities address the impacts of the Indian residential school system. We support initiatives like cultural preservation, education, and healing, with tailored eligibility criteria, grant limits, and timelines to meet the diverse needs of First Nations.

Continuing Their Journey (CTJ) Program - Funding is offered through rolling deadlines, providing several opportunities each year for communities and Survivor groups to apply. The maximum funding amount is $200,000 for a one-year project, depending on project scope and fund availability. Contact our team for support with eligibility or documentation questions.

The McConnell Foundation is a private Canadian foundation that contributes to diverse and innovative approaches to address community resilience, reconciliation, and climate change.

Funding priorities: as a private philanthropic foundation, we aim to use our resources to help address some of society’s most important challenges. We have chosen to focus our funding on issues of generational importance, that are impacting communities across the country, and where we believe we can contribute to creating significant change.

Our three main focus areas of Communities, Reconciliation and Climate represent what we believe to be some of the most pressing issues facing our society today. With our funding, we hope to help create significant positive impact and demonstrate that lasting change is possible across the country.

  • Communities: We see community as a group that shares common barriers, needs, and goals, whether defined by geography, identity, interest, or other commonalities. Our communities focus area aims to partner with equity-denied groups to support their path toward greater equity and justice. We seek to support initiatives that have community at the heart of their actions and purpose. It is important to ask: how is the project fostering long-term systemic positive outcomes for the community?
  • Reconciliation: We fund projects that advance a reconciliation economy where wealth and resources are equitably shared and sustainably stewarded for this generation and those yet to come. Funding streams: Indigenous-led solutions to activate the NIES Calls to Economic Prosperity; Indigenous-led collaborative funding projects that prioritize Indigenous ways of being and knowing, and work to redistribute power to Indigenous communities can create more effective, equitable, and sustainable outcomes.
  • Climate: We are dedicated to accelerating Canada’s transition to a net-zero carbon economy. With this focus area, we seek to support organizations contributing to at least one of the following strategies: Climate mitigation solutions; Climate Finance Strategy; and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy.

Oshki Wupoowane | The Blanket Fund ᐅᔾᑭ :ᐊᐳᐧᐃᒼ

The Blanket Fund will provide support for Indigenous cultural, artistic, and educational activities. The Blanket Fund can be accessed by both grassroots Indigenous communities and organizations, and by Indigenous individuals undertaking related initiatives.

Reconciliation Action Grants. $1,500-$15,000. The Reconciliation Action grants stream will support reconciliation activities, events, and initiatives in communities that contribute to cultural revitalization, elevate Indigenous culture, languages, and traditions, increase understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, or other grassroots initiatives that move reconciliation forward. Applications for Reconciliation Action Grants will be reviewed quarterly in April, July, October, and January. Applications are accepted on a quarterly basis. Current Intake Period closes June 10, 2026, 11:59PM EST.  

Heritage Legacy Fund. There are currently four streams of funding:

  • Heritage Conservation. The Heritage Conservation stream provides grants of up to $50,000, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs for the preservation, rehabilitation, or restoration of the physical fabric of a heritage place, including archaeological sites, that embodies its heritage value.
  • Heritage Awareness. The Heritage Awareness stream provides grants of up to $10,000, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs for initiatives that research, document, interpret, present, or share community heritage. These projects enhance public understanding of heritage resources, cultural landscapes, and intangible heritage such as oral histories, language, and cultural practices.
  • Heritage Planning. The Heritage Planning stream provides grants of up to $5,000, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs for projects that develop plans and documents to support heritage conservation and awareness initiatives.
  • Indigenous Partnership. The Indigenous Partnership stream provides grants of up to $7,500, covering up to 50% of eligible project costs for collaborative initiatives that contribute to reconciliation by supporting the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives, histories, languages, heritage values, and ways of knowing.

Heritage BC accepts applications for Heritage Legacy Fund grants once a year. Eligibility criteria for applicants and projects, as well as eligible expenses for each program, can be found in the Heritage Legacy Fund Granting Guidelines.

2026 Application Timeline:

  • May 15, 2026 – Eligibility checks begin
  • June 1, 2026 – Application period begins
  • Week of June 3, 2026 – Applicant information session(s)
  • July 15, 2026 – Eligibility checks close
  • July 31, 2026 – Application period closes
  • August 2026 – Application review
  • September 2026 – Assessment meetings
  • October 2026 – Notification and announcement of grant recommendations

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 BC Arts Council (BCAC) was created in 1995 as an agency of the Province of British Columbia under the Arts Council Act. The BCAC nurtures and supports arts and cultural activity in communities across British Columbia. From community arts in rural and urban centres, to individual artists, professional performing arts companies, Indigenous artists and cultural organizations, art galleries, local museums and music festivals – BCAC supports a range of activities while engaging with artists and communities to inform policies and programs. BC Arts Council Grant Programs funding opportunities can be found here.

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 - Funds First Nations, Inuit and Métis artists, arts/cultural professionals (including artists’ representatives), cultural carriers, artistic groups, collectives and organizations working in all disciplines. 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. This may include acquiring materials for artistic production, engaging in career or artistic development activities or benefitting from specific expertise, advice or training from a professional artist or cultural carrier. This component is open to First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals, artistic groups, collectives and organizations working in all disciplines. Deadline: Any time before the start date of your project or activity.
  • Indigenous Organizations - Funds First Nations, Inuit and Métis organizations that engage in contemporary, customary or traditional artistic and cultural activities. These activities can include non-Indigenous artists and collaborations with non-Indigenous organizations. Grants support the exploration of innovative strategies for Indigenous creative and cultural expression, and related administrative activities. Deadline: Fall 2027.

Office of the Commissioner of Indigenous Language - Innovation Projects. The Commission is mandated to support innovative projects and the use of new technologies in Indigenous language education and revitalization, in cooperation with Indigenous governments and other Indigenous governing bodies, Indigenous organizations, the Government of Canada and provincial and territorial governments. We are currently accepting proposals for Innovation projects on an ongoing basis, click here for more information.

Employment Opportunities

Simon Fraser University is a Canadian university recognized around the world for academic excellence, innovation, and sustainability. We employ more than 7,000 faculty and staff that support the institution, facilities, programs and teams to equip the university’s 37,000 students with the knowledge, skills and experiences that prepare them for life in an ever-changing and challenging world. Guided by our shared vision—to be a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future—we are committed to meeting the changing needs of both the world around us and the people and communities we serve. Explore SFU opportunities.

Senior Research Writer - seeking a highly motivated full-time (37.5 hours/week) or part-time (30 hours/week) Senior Research Writer to join our research centre. This is a senior publication writing role that provides leadership on all academic publications, community-facing reports, and institutional writing projects associated with the CCAIHG and the BC NEIHR. The Senior Research Writer will oversee the full publication pipeline, including leading the development of academic manuscripts, scoping reviews, commentaries, Centre-led research reports, grant writing support, annual and project reporting, and identifying publication opportunities and collaborations. The position works collaboratively with the Centre staff (i.e., Director), BC Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research (BC NEIHR) team members, Indigenous communities and partners, internal and external collaborators, and SFU interdisciplinary teams to manage research publications and reporting for both the Centre and BC NEIHR. Application Details:

  • Status: Full-time (37.5 hours per week) or part-time (30 hours per week) position for a one-year contract, with the possibility of extension.
  • Salary: $70,000 per year (full-time 37.5 hrs per week. Part-time salary will be prorated.
  • Location: Remote work within BC. Candidate must be based in BC, as there will be occasional in-person research gatherings and team meetings in Vancouver and at our Centre office at SFU Burnaby Campus.
  • How to Apply: Please send a resume, writing sample, and cover letter outlining why you are interested in this position via email to indigenoushealthgovcentre@sfu.ca.
  • Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.

BC NEIHR Indigenous Research Liaison (IRL). The BC NEIHR is seeking a highly motivated full-time (37.5 hours per week) Indigenous Research Liaison (IRL) to join our team! Under the supervision of the Nominated Principal Investigator Dr. Krista Stelkia (SFU; BC NEIHR; CCAIHG), Program Manager, Elizabeth Hunter (BC NEIHR), as well as working with BC NEIHR’s governance partners (First Nations Health Authority, Métis Nation BC, and BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres), and collaborators such as the BC SUPPORT Unit, the IRL will undertake the following activities:

  • Relationship Building
  • Liaison & Facilitation
  • Mentorship
  • Navigation
  • Other Communications and Training

Application Details:

  • Status: Full-time position (37.5 hours/week) for a one-year contract, with the possibility of extension.
  • Annual Salary: $70,000 full-time
  • Location: Remote (based in BC). Occasional travel required throughout BC, including community and partner outreach and attendance of in-person events and meetings
  • Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed until position is filled.
  • View Full Job Description

Application Process: Send your application package, including cover letter, CV/resume and Experience Statement (see below) via email to: bcneihr@sfu.ca. Use the subject line to clearly state the position you are applying for (e.g., "NAME OF THE POSITION Application"). Experience Statement: As part of the application package, please include a 1-2 page Experience Statement that outlines why you are interested in this position and your experience in providing research support and conducting community engagement with Indigenous peoples and communities. This is an opportunity to highlight in a narrative format key aspects of your work, education, training or other experiences that make you a suitable candidate for this position. Please consider the activities listed under Position Summary when creating your Experience Statement. Graduate students in BC are encouraged to apply. If you are a current graduate student interested in a full-time position, you must include your time management plans in your cover letter to demonstrate how you will balance your studies with the full-time role. We thank all applicants for their interest. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

At the University of Victoria, we combine outstanding scholarship with inspired teaching and community engagement. We’re committed to recruiting, developing and retaining people who help us build a better future.   Explore all Faculty & librarian postings Explore Academic Leadership opportunities

Indigenous Academic Advising Consultant. The Indigenous Academic Advising Consultant (IAAC) is a senior advising role within the Academic Advising Centre, providing specialized academic advising, guidance, and institutional insight to support the academic success and retention of Indigenous undergraduate students in the Faculties of Humanities, Science, and Social Sciences. The position integrates a culturally grounded, trauma-informed advising approach with deep knowledge of academic programs, policies, and systems. The IAAC works collaboratively with Indigenous Academic and Community Engagement (IACE), Student Affairs units, Faculties, and academic advising colleagues to enhance advising practices, remove systemic barriers, and strengthen culturally relevant student supports. The role also contributes to the development of advising practices, training, and institutional initiatives that advance UVic’s commitments under the Indigenous Plan and Equity Action Plan. In accordance with the University's Preferential or Limited Hiring Policy (HR6110) and pursuant to Section 42 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference will be given to members of the following designated group(s): Indigenous Peoples. Candidates from the group(s) who wish to qualify for preferential consideration are encouraged to self-identify.  

Post closing date: 31 May 2026 (4:30 pm PDT)

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. Explore current BCAAFC career opportunities.

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. Explore available MNBC career opportunities.

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. Explore current FNHA job postings.

Training and Events

B.C.'s health research month is designed to educate, inform, inspire, stimulate and transform. Every year, Island Health collaborates with partner organizations to bring together researchers and students, patients and healthcare providers, decision-makers and members of the public to learn, share ideas and spark innovation. These events are open to everyone.

Five Days in May 2026. This year's events are a collaboration between the BC SUPPORT Unit, BC NEIHR (Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research), and Fraser, Interior, Island and Northern Health.

May 4–8, 2026 (excluding May 5) | IH Research Week 2026 | Fully virtual to support accessibility across the Interior region and beyond.   The 2026 theme—Strengthening Rural and Remote Health Equity Across the Interior through Indigenous and Community Leadership—highlights the vital role of community‑driven knowledge, collaboration, and innovation in shaping healthier futures across the region and beyond!  Visit the Events, News & Resources | Interior Health webpage for updates and to view recordings from previous years. Register directly for the events and explore the virtual, live agenda–to be updated regularly!  IH Research Week 2026 is brought to you by Interior Health and the BC SUPPORT Unit Interior Centre, in partnership with BC Cancer Clinical Trials, British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research (BC NEIHR), and the Rural Coordination Centre of BC (RCCbc).

October 6-9, 2026 - 5th Indigenous Nursing Research for Health Empowerment Summit 2026. Held on the traditional territories of the Lək̓ʷəŋən Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt, and W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples (also known as Victoria, British Columbia, Canada), the Summit brings together vibrant Indigenous nursing leaders, and communities in their pursuit of self-determined health and well-being. The Summit aims to share research findings and approaches that address the collective wellness and wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples globally. The Summit enables Indigenous nurses, healthcare workers, community knowledge holders, and researchers to connect, network, share, and inspire the next generation of Indigenous nursing researchers, scientists, and leaders. We envision rich discussions about the generation of new evidence and actions that impact Indigenous wellbeing and healthy futures. Specific outcomes include providing opportunities to learn from each other and networking with researchers actively working to improve the health and lives of Indigenous peoples.

November 17 - 19, 2026 | 2026 Indigenous Disability and Wellness Gathering.

The 2026 Gathering will take place in Sidney, BC, at the Mary Winspear Center from November 17th to November 19th, 2026. Sidney is situated on the traditional territory of the WSÁNEĆ (Saanich) Peoples, who have inhabited the land since time immemorial and continue to maintain a vibrant presence today. The WSÁNEĆ Nations include Tsartlip, Pauquachin, Tseycum, Tsawout, and Malahat.

During this event, we will also celebrate the 35th anniversary of Indigenous Disability anada (IDC) / British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS), as well as the 12th anniversary of Indigenous Disability Awareness Month (IDAM), which has been acknowledged and proclaimed both in Canada and internationally!​

The 2026 Gathering will bring together Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments, leadership, service providers, community members, and others to learn, connect, and collaborate in addressing the unique barriers Indigenous Peoples with disabilities face. Together, we will continue to take the necessary steps to dismantle historical and current barriers and the attitudes and perceptions that negatively impact Indigenous Peoples with disabilities. By forming new and expanded partnerships, we can collaborate and identify the best practices for the broader disability and health sectors. Together, we will continue to shape a Canada that is inclusive and responsive to the needs of all peoples and abilities.​ Visit https://www.indigenousdisabilitygathering.com/ for more information, including the agenda and registration.

Call for Papers and Unique Opportunities

We are currently recruiting Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations, and Research Ethics Boards members to participate in an Indigenous-led research study. We are looking to speak to individuals who are engaged in Indigenous health research and would like to share experiences with Indigenous health research ethics in BC! If you would like to participate in this transformative research study, please reach out to Dr. Krista Stelkia at indigenizingethics_study@sfu.ca.

Learn more about the research study here. Stay connected with us regarding participant call outs through the CCAIHG newsletter: Sign up here.

https://surveys.insightrix.com/SFUDiscrimination

Island Health invites Indigenous post-graduate students interested in undertaking health services, health policy, clinical research, or quality improvement projects within the Island Health system. Island Health is strongly committed to working in partnership with Indigenous, Métis and Inuit people to support integration of cultural safety, anti-racism and trauma-informed care into health service delivery. Island Health can provide collaborative support for Indigenous students and researchers seeking to make connections in a number of ways:

  • Connection to Indigenous health and also non-Indigenous health service leaders who are working to enable cultural safety, anti-racism and trauma-informed care within the health system across broad areas.
  • Partnerships for an Indigenous Culturally Safe supportive environment.
  • Academic mentorship and supervision aligned with academic institution requirements.

Mentorship and support are provided by Island Health on an individual basis based on the needs of each student and their projects. If you are interested, please contact research@islandhealth.ca.

The BCAAFC 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). Doulas can provide support to people during the full spectrum of pregnancy and beyond—from conception, to miscarriages, stillbirths, adoptions, births, the postnatal period, and everything in between. Doulas help birthing parents and their families communicate their expectations, hopes, and concerns so that they feel supported and comfortable with their decisions.

The Support Network for Indigenous Women and Women of Colour (SNIWWOC). SNIWWOC is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to the empowerment of women. We operate from a holistic and integrated service model that addresses the social, cultural and political realities of immigrant and Indigenous communities. SNIWWOC confronts barriers that limit access to healthcare and full reproductive choice for Canadian BIPOC women, two- spirit, and non-binary folks. We operate from a holistic and integrated service model addressing the social, cultural and political realities of this community. We are focused on catalyzing individual empowerment by building connection and community, providing access to key healthcare and community resources, sharing valuable educational resources. We offer programs and services across so-called “Canada” with a major focus on the provinces of British Columbia and Ontario. Click here to learn more, access services and get involved!

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.