OTTAWA, January 24, 2022

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting Black Canadian communities, advancing equity and diversity, and combatting different forms of racism, discrimination, and hate. As part of this commitment, the government is investing in initiatives that recognize the contributions of Black Canadians, while addressing the systemic barriers and challenges faced by Black communities in Canada that have been worsened by the pandemic.

Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, announced a Call for Concepts for the $200-million Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund. Building from the May 2021 consultations, this call seeks innovate ideas from Black communities to ensure the Fund meets their expectations and addresses the unique challenges they face.

Announced in Budget 2021, the Fund is dedicated to supporting Black-led charities and organizations serving youth and social initiatives and will create a sustainable source of funding to improve the social and economic outcomes in Black communities.

The Government is inviting Black-led organizations, charities, and interested Canadians to participate in this call. Information on how to participate is available at Call for concepts: Black-Led Philanthropic Endowment Fund.

Once the community engagement process is completed, an open process will be launched shortly after. One or more Black-led foundations will be selected to manage and administer the Fund. The recipient would be responsible for managing the assets of the contributed funds to create a long-term self-sustaining source of funding for Black community organizations.