Indspire receives $9 million in additional funding over three years in 2019 federal budget
Ohsweken – March 20, 2019.
Indspire is pleased that the federal government has chosen to significantly increase its investment in the education of First Nations, Inuit and Métis students as announced in yesterday’s budget. Indigenous learners are increasingly seeking post-secondary opportunities, yet only 11 percent of Indigenous peoples have a university degree versus 29.3 percent of the non-Indigenous population. The announcement of $9 million over three years in additional funding to Indspire is a great step towards closing that gap. This investment will support First Nations, Inuit and Métis students, Canada’s fastest growing demographic group.
In 2017-18, Indspire awarded $14.2 million through 4,900 scholarships and bursaries to Indigenous students across Canada and on average, 90% of students who have received funding have graduated from a post-secondary institution. Over 50% of graduates continue towards another post-secondary credential and, most importantly, almost 50% of employed recipients work in fields that support Indigenous communities.
“I am very pleased that this additional investment of $9 million over three years will enable Indspire to support many more Indigenous students to achieve their potential through education. Their success will enrich First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and Canada”, said Roberta Jamieson, President and CEO of Indspire.
About Indspire
Indspire is an Indigenous national charity that invests in the education of Indigenous people for the long-term benefit of these individuals, their families and communities, and Canada. With the support of its funding partners, Indspire invests in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students so they will achieve their highest potential. In 2017-18 Indspire awarded $14.2 million through 4,900 scholarships and bursaries to Indigenous students across Canada.
Nick Foglia, Vice President, Communications and Marketing
416.987.0260 / 416.710.6070
nfoglia@indspire.ca
