A New Initiation Proposal: Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative

In Canada, our strength lies in our diversity, and the Government of Canada is committed to investing in initiatives that empower Black Canadians and address longstanding systemic issues of racism in areas such as recognition, justice, and development.

As part of the ongoing efforts, the Supporting Black Canadian Communities Initiative (SBCCI) is being implemented to enhance the capabilities of Black-led and Black-serving community-based organizations throughout the country. The aim is to bring decision-making closer to Black communities, ensuring a more tailored approach to meeting their specific needs and priorities.

Today, Kamal Khera, the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, announced a significant allocation of $21.5 million to the Black-led National Funders network in the third round of funding under SBCCI. The National Funders network, consisting of organizations like Tropicana Community Services, Africa Centre, Black Business Initiative, and Groupe 3737, has initiated a call for proposals under SBCCI. The application period begins today and extends until December 15 at 11:59 EST, with selected projects expected to be announced in the first half of 2024.

Through this call for proposals, registered non-profit organizations that are Black-led and serve the Black community can apply for funding of up to $105,000 across two streams: Capital Assistance and Capacity Building. This financial support aims to help Black-led organizations enhance their organizational capacity and improve their workplaces and community spaces, enabling them to better serve Black Canadian communities.

SBCCI acts as a complementary measure to existing initiatives working towards greater social inclusion, improved well-being for People of African descent in Canada, and addressing the unique challenges faced by Black communities, including discrimination, bias, and anti-Black racism.

Minister Kamal Khera emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration with communities, ensuring that investments in Black communities across the country are directed by the communities themselves. The SBCCI National Funders network plays a crucial role in guiding and determining investment decisions tailored to the specific needs of Black communities.

Some quick facts highlight the ongoing commitment, including the United Nations International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), the substantial investment of over $175 million through SBCCI since 2019, and an additional $25 million allocated in Budget 2023 for 2024-25, extending the program for another year.

The SBCCI seeks to empower Black Canadians and Black-led community organizations, address systemic barriers and anti-Black racism, and advance the full social and economic inclusion of Black Canadians into Canadian society. An External Reference Group, consisting of a Black-led ministerial advisory group, provides expertise and advice on SBCCI implementation, ensuring that priorities from Black communities are recognized.

In addition to SBCCI, the Government of Canada has established the Black-led Philanthropic Endowment Fund, providing a sustainable source of funding for Black-led, Black-focused, and Black-serving non-profit organizations and registered charities. With an endowment of $200 million, managed by the Foundation for Black Communities (FFBC), this fund aims to create a long-term, self-sustaining source of funding for Black community organizations.

The government remains committed to engaging with Black communities, incorporating feedback and ideas into policy and program development. Since 2019, close to $100 million has been committed to Canada’s Anti-Racism Strategy, marking a historic investment in addressing racism in the country.