Producer Career Catalyst Program
Focused on our core arts and culture pillar this case study showcases the Producer Career Catalyst Program
The Black Opportunity Fund supports Black non-profit and for-profit endeavours by issuing philanthropic grants to scale up Black non-profits and produces capacity-building investments to scale up Black businesses.
Celebrating the winners of the Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) grant program for Canadian, Black-led community organizations.
Through the generous support of TD Bank Group through the TD Ready Commitment and the Law Foundation of Ontario, we are thrilled to announce the winners of our grant program for organizations making a significant impact in two of BOF’s mandate areas: 1) Arts & Culture, and 2) Criminal Justice. After careful consideration and an extensive evaluation process, we have selected 19 Black-led, Black-serving, Black-focused not-for-profits and charities (B3s) from across Canada.
“The work being done through the Black Opportunity Fund to break down barriers, address systemic anti-Black racism, and create equitable opportunities for Black and Afro-descendant communities in Canada is transformational,” says Alicia Rose, Associate Vice President, Social Impact, TD Bank Group. “Through the TD Ready Commitment, our corporate citizenship platform, we’re proud to support their efforts to advocate for inclusive change and drive progress for these communities today and into the future.”
“We’re excited to be partnering with the Black Opportunity Fund and supporting its first Criminal Justice granting steam,” says Lisa Cirillo, CEO, The Law Foundation of Ontario. “Enabling equity and justice are key priorities of our grantmaking. Our partnership allowed the Black Opportunity Fund to double the granting dollars available, increasing justice-related services and access to justice for Black communities in Ontario. We congratulate all the grantees, especially those supported specifically by the Foundation’s funding, and look forward to learning about the impact they’ll create.”
We extend our deepest gratitude to all the applicants who submitted their projects for consideration. The level of work and commitment displayed in each proposal was truly inspiring, making the selection process a challenging but rewarding task.
We would also like to thank our adjudicators and advisors who generously shared their time and expertise to identify our program recipients. Their invaluable contribution ensured a fair and thorough evaluation process.
Please view the full list of the extraordinary grant winners at the link below. We invite you to help to promote their organizations and programs through your networks, and to consider supporting their initiatives.
Congratulations to all Recipients!
Project Description: ACCEC's SJI program empowers people of African descent by providing contextual reports for the courts, a legal directory, education and awareness programs, and healing circles using African Indigenous Knowledge systems.
WebsiteProject Description: Vancouver Black Library Collections curates materials for the BIPOC community, promoting diversity and access to education and culture through funding support for acquisitions, staff, training, and community outreach.
WebsiteProject Description: The SCREEN Program in Winnipeg prevents youth radicalization and violence through safe spaces, media literacy, intercultural dialogue, mentorship, sports, and outings. It promotes resilience, challenges stereotypes, and empowers youth to contribute positively to society.
WebsiteProject Description: The African Diaspora Cultural and Traditional Event celebrates the contributions of the African diaspora in the Maritimes while promoting cultural heritage and supporting the mental health and integration of newcomers in Canada.
WebsiteProject Description: This program empowers at-risk black youth in Uniacke Square, Halifax, through social entrepreneurship and community involvement, aiming to prevent criminal involvement and break the cycle of poverty while promoting mental health and community development.
WebsiteProject Description: The CaribbeanTales Cinema Screenings Therapy Program provides therapeutic film experiences for BIPOC audiences, addressing social issues and changing narratives through authentic portrayals by Black media artists.
WebsiteProject Description: This initiative enables BAND's board to shift from operational to governance roles, focusing on fundraising, partnerships, and strategic priorities for sustainable growth and resource development.
WebsiteProject Description: Our program offers gymnastics, cultural dance, self-esteem building, and art classes for young Black girls, fostering self-expression, confidence, and cultural belonging in an empowering environment.
WebsiteProject Description: Prosper offers intensive case management for young individuals with firearm-related charges, aiming to increase access to services, address systemic barriers, and reduce involvement in violence and crime.
WebsiteProject Description: The Advocacy Committee and Criminal Justice Reform Subcommittee promote diversity, equity, and justice for Black Canadians through interventions, reports, and legislative influence, creating positive social change in the community.
WebsiteProject Description: The #MaybeNextTime campaign aims to address sexual violence against Black girls and women. The We Got You, Sis program offers capacity building, mental health support, and resources to encourage disclosure, empowerment, and access to necessary tools for self-advocacy and healing.
WebsiteProject Description: Our project aims to provide diversion programs for guilty pleas to prevent criminal convictions, reducing recidivism and empowering Black youth with better employment opportunities and support systems.
WebsiteProject Description: R3 provides culturally specific support for youth and families in the justice system. Increased funding enables expansion, professional counseling, and extrajudicial programs for Black youth, reducing recidivism and improving community safety and mental health.
WebsiteProject Description: The Black Youth Diversion program provides holistic prevention and intervention support for justice-involved Black youth, aiming to divert them from jails, address overrepresentation, and foster positive change through workshops and community interventions.
WebsiteProject Description: Acorn2Oak's Justice Program provides wraparound support for racialized youths in conflict with the law, addressing root issues, reducing recidivism, and promoting education and career prospects.
WebsiteProject Description: The project engages African, Caribbean, Black, and Indigenous youth through workshops led by Black legal professionals. It educates them about legal rights, develops legal skills, and includes a mock hearing and needs assessment.
WebsiteProject Description: We propose the Festival Bon Courage, an annual event highlighting the artistic and cultural diversity of communities of African descent, with the aim of combating cultural misunderstanding, promoting heritage and involving young people in Quebec society.
WebsiteProject Description: I.M.P.A.C.T will launch a business accelerator program for Black Anglophone Quebecois producers, providing training, mentorship, and funding opportunities to support their career growth and promote diversity in the industry.
WebsiteProject Description: Hoodistic Justice, a restorative justice project by Hoodstock, aims to address systemic inequalities and overrepresentation of Black populations in the justice system. It offers alternative measures and Afrocentric workshops to rebuild identity and communities.
WebsiteAnnouncing the recipients of the BOF & BCFC Grant and B3 Capacity Building Program.
We are thrilled to announce the recipients of our unique and innovative BOF & BCFC Grant and B3 Capacity Building Program for Canadian Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-focused nonprofits and charities (B3), which positions them to collaborate, lead and deliver community-determined solutions that effectively address identified community priorities and needs.
After careful consideration and an extensive evaluation process, we have selected 25 B3s doing impactful work in communities across Canada, who will each receive $20,000 in funding to allocate according to their charitable purposes, operational and program needs. The organizations will also receive invaluable coaching support through BCFC, from certified professional Black coaches, as well as access to a comprehensive training program in key areas of nonprofit management. All applicants will have access to BCFC’s curated online resources covering relevant topics critical in building and maintaining healthy, adaptable, and community-responsive organizations.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the 423 applicants who submitted their projects for consideration. The level of work and commitment displayed in each proposal was truly inspiring, making the selection process a challenging but rewarding task.
This unique initiative would not have been possible without the generous funding support from the RBC Foundation, TD Ready Commitment and community funding partners the Government of Nova Scotia Department of African Nova Scotian Affairs, Toronto Foundation and United Way Greater Halifax. As well as the key contributions from delivery partners Black Canadian Fundraisers’ Collective, Imagine Canada, Management Advisory Services (MAS) and the International Coaching Federation, Vancouver Chapter.
Please view the full list of the grant recipients at the link below. We invite you to help to promote their organizations and programs through your networks and to consider supporting the good work they are doing in Black communities across Canada.
Congratulations to all the program recipients!
Project Description: With our sustainability pathway we want to offer youth who have been part of Hope Blooms for more than 5 years the opportunity to get the proper training and resources to come back and work with us in some capacity making them an integral part of our Strategic Plan for the next 10 years.
WebsiteProject Description: This project focuses on securing land rights and fostering sustainable development within African Nova Scotian communities. By advocating for community ownership of land and resources, we help preserve cultural heritage and stimulate economic growth.
WebsiteProject Description: We are using the Community Land Trust model to steward land for community-led development that can facilitate transformation with a focus on cultural preservation, deeply affordable housing, climate responsibility, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples through responsible land stewardship.
WebsiteProject Description: This program is dedicated to empowering Black youth in Nova Scotia through entrepreneurship. By promoting entrepreneurial culture, BIJ focuses on experiential learning where youth “learn entrepreneurship by doing entrepreneurship.”
WebsiteProject Description: ANSMA has created an efficient and accessible service delivery model that can reach Black music creatives in Nova Scotia and throughout the Maritimes through its core programming consisting of two outreach programs and two music development programs.
WebsiteProject Description: Thrive360 is a comprehensive 40-week program designed to empower Black women who are aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills, resources, and mentorship needed to thrive in the business world.
WebsiteProject Description: The NB Black Youth Outreach Program (YOP) was designed to provide a “System of Care” for each Black youth participant - meeting identified needs at the personal, familial and community level integrated in the School Districts through the lens of eliminating racism, discrimination, and marginalization.
WebsiteProject Description: One of our top priorities is food security: to address this concern, we run a weekly food bank and an intercultural kitchen. The latter offers one woman per session the chance to teach a group of women a recipe from her country of origin that corresponds to the ingredients given in the emergency food basket.
WebsiteProject Description: The Cote des Neiges Black Community Association (CDNBCA)’s Teen Leadership (TL) program focuses on activities that respond to create development opportunities for social, cultural, wellness, educational, and economic empowerment for the Black English-speaking community of Quebec.
WebsiteProject Description: Our organization is dedicated to enhancing access to health and social services for the English-speaking Black community in the Greater Montreal Area. One of our key initiatives, conducted in partnership with McGill University, focuses on supporting the recruitment and retention of English-speaking professionals in the health and social service sectors within Quebec.
WebsiteProject Description: The length of our transformative mindset development and entrepreneurship program is 5-weeks and includes a mixture of interactive workshops, lectures, activities, and individual mentorship sessions.
WebsiteProject Description: The program delivers culturally preferred foods to visible minority people especially black immigrant families. This has helped relieve the stress on families who are either new immigrant or can’t afford the high cost of food due to changes in economic status.
WebsiteProject Description: The 3rd Annual Afro-Caribbean Cultural Summerfest of Surrey (ACCSS) will be held on August 13-14, jointly organized with the ACCSSF'2024 aims to be the finest and safest multi-day food, music, and arts festival in Surrey. The festival will showcase Afro-Caribbean musical genres, feature local and international artists, and actively involve the community.
WebsiteProject Description: Le programme proposé vise la transmission de la culture africaine à 50 jeunes francophones nouveaux arrivants Noirs à travers les ateliers de percussions et danses africaines suivi des cercles de conversations et d’échanges interculturels. l'offre de cette programmation est très importante pour les familles immigrantes francophones noires en situation minoritaire car cela contribuera à renforcer leurs liens sociaux au sein de la communauté en réduisant leur risque d'isolement, et élargissant ainsi l'offre de programmes pour ces derniers. De plus, la danse est une bonne activité physique pas toujours accessible. Notre projet permettra d'éliminer les barrières et faire augmenter le taux de participation des adolescents francophones Noirs dans les activités physiques. En effet, chaque participant pourra: - développer son cardio, ses muscles et son plaisir de bouger; - travailler son sens de l’équilibre, améliorer ses réflexes; - s’exprimer, car les mouvements qu’il exécute font appel à son imagination et à sa sensibilité; Afin de rejoindre les personnes ciblées, nous: - Impliquons les associations ethnoculturelles lors la planification/promotion du programme auprès de leur communauté respectives et le recrutement des participants; - Faisons la promotion du programme dans les communautés religieuses; - Travaillons avec les Conseils scolaires et les différents organismes dirigés par les noirs ou qui desservent les Noirs afin de recruter les participants au programme. Les avantages du projet: - Création des moments d'change intergénérationnel et création de liens entre les jeunes adolescents et les adultes/aînés. - Les jeunes apprennent l'histoire et la culture africaine en participant aux ateliers. - Amélioration de la santé et le bien-être des participants.
WebsiteProject Description: With the Emancipation Jubilee, TBCWE is resurrecting the emancipation celebrations that once made Windsor a favourite summer tourist attraction. Three days of free, family friendly activities featuring live performances, cultural foods, vendors and historical tours highlight Black, African and Caribbean (BAC) arts and culture in a freedom festival celebrating the end of slavery in Canada.
WebsiteProject Description: The MYUA After School Program serves as a vital component of our organization's mission to empower black youth in Windsor-Essex County. Through this program, we provide academic support, mentorship, and a safe space for personal and social development to black youth aged 8-18.
WebsiteProject Description: The proposed program is a community event consisting of an interactive film screening and exhibition taking place in Windsor, ON in June 2025. The event is Jackson Park’s ‘Phase II’ capstone, and will feature culminating projects from each platform. The intent is to share and promote awareness of the journey of the JPP and its community as we challenge the traditional erasure and underrepresentation of Black-Canadian history together.
WebsiteProject Description: Oasis Youth Care Programs stands as a beacon of hope, dedicated to empowering and uplifting homeless Black youths in the Halton/Peel Regions. Providing transitional housing and culturally responsive wrap-around support services, The Oasis House is Halton's only black-led and black-focused housing service for transition-aged youth (18-25).
WebsiteProject Description: REST's Bridge of Hope program offers a holistic approach to addressing youth homelessness in Peel Region. Rooted in evidence-based practices and community collaboration, the program empowers homeless youth to secure stable housing and build a foundation for a brighter future.
WebsiteProject Description: The Black Equity Integration Initiative is a 4-year longitudinal research project examining how social enterprises, including Work Integration Social Enterprises (WISEs), assist Black and other racialized Canadians in overcoming socioeconomic barriers after experiencing incarceration and/or criminalization. The key goals of this initiative align closely with Pitch Better's mission to facilitate economic inclusion for Black and equity-seeking professionals and entrepreneurs.
WebsiteProject Description: In Empowering Black Youth to Resist Conflict with the Law, we utilize restorative justice. We believe that Black Youth, both victim and perpetrator, need healing, and building their capacity to resist contact with the law.
WebsiteProject Description: Mamas Healing Garden's 12-week youth engagement workshops and training sessions are a cornerstone of our organization's mission to provide holistic healing initiatives for our community. These workshops delve into critical issues such as Environmental Justice, Food Equity, Land Stewardship, and Climate Change, educating youth about the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement.
WebsiteProject Description: The program is aimed at reducing hunger in black families and promoting healthy food practices through community and family outreach education and trainings. Through this initiative, we rescue, transform, preserve and distribute various food items in black communities and families.
WebsiteProject Description: The Black Screen Office (BSO) has shone a light on the fact that content made by Black Canadian producers must overcome tremendous, systemic obstacles to make it to Canadian and international screens. The primary way to access national and global markets is through screen festivals, as they are critical marketplaces for producers to distribute their works, make essential connections, and establish financial backing for future projects.
WebsiteProject Description: This project will implement Augmented Reality (AR) integrations for Black-led public art. For these installations, we will use QR codes to embed links to virtual exhibitions that archive the public work and also allow for the sharing of additional elements such as animation, alternative colours, and virtual sculptures that build on the physical installation.
WebsiteIn partnership with CILAR and Pitch Better, Black Opportunity Fund is providing cash grants, funded by Facebook Canada, in response to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 on Canada’s Black-led business community. At Black Opportunity Fund, we recognize the importance of responding to urgent community needs, while taking a long-term approach to building pathways to greater business sustainability.
Congratulations to our program recipients!
DoorDash & Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) Award Over $300,000 in Grants to Black-Owned Restaurants and Foodpreneurs across Canada to support the continued growth of their business.
DoorDash Canada and BOF are proud to celebrate these 30 Black-owned and Black-led culinary establishments who will each receive over $10,000 in grants, in addition to a one-year membership for Restaurants Canada, courtesy of DoorDash, which will connect culinary professionals with insights and resources that can help their business thrive.
Congratulations to all Recipients!
Project Description: Flavours Restaurant will use the fund to enhance branding and marketing with Shine FM ads, professional materials, and a video album.
WebsiteProject Description: Rayyan Restaurant will use the fund to improve accessibility with automatic doors, ramps, and elevators, and upgrade to energy-efficient kitchen equipment and dishwashers.
WebsiteProject Description: Som Express will use the fund to renovate washrooms, install energy-efficient kitchen appliances, and improve workflow with new equipment.
WebsiteProject Description: Delish Dining Limited will use the funding to upgrade operations, improve service, and support community growth.
WebsiteProject Description: Sauce Modern Caribbean Cuisine will invest in a high-powered oven to boost food production and upgrade their patio into a heated, covered space to extend customer capacity year-round.
WebsiteProject Description: Aboki Grill will use the fund to open a second ghost kitchen in Surrey and launch a food truck, expanding customer reach while keeping costs low.
WebsiteProject Description: Arabelle’s Bakery will use the funding to purchase a dough roller and an air bagger to improve production efficiency and product packaging.
WebsiteProject Description: Mesob Ethiopian Eats will use the fund to buy supplies and services at competitive prices, focusing on cost-efficiency and project goals.
WebsiteProject Description: Jollof Life will use the funds to upgrade equipment, improve seating, and enhance its website to boost efficiency, customer experience, and grow its market presence.
WebsiteProject Description: Chopshaven Limited will use the fund to buy ingredients, equipment, and virtual cooking class technology to support catering and cultural programs.
WebsiteProject Description: R&B Kitchen will use the $10,000 budget to purchase essential equipment and obtain a diverse supplier certification. These upgrades will improve efficiency, expand capacity, and open doors to larger procurement opportunities.
WebsiteProject Description: The Commune will use the funds to stabilize operations at their new location, enhance brand visibility through targeted marketing, and grow diversified revenue streams like catering and events.
WebsiteProject Description: Nganda will use the budget to invest in social media ads, influencer partnerships, and loyalty programs to grow and retain its customer base. It will also upgrade kitchen equipment, improve inventory management, and expand online ordering, delivery, and catering services to boost efficiency and revenue.
WebsiteProject Description: Naija Food Eats will use the $10,220 to enhance marketing and social media, hire a manager for content and ads, and improve their website and online ordering.
WebsiteProject Description: The Abibiman Project will use the fund to upgrade packaging and design to expand sales and shipping.
WebsiteProject Description: Mills Kitchen will use the fund to buy a shawarma press and a pastry-making machine to improve production speed and consistency.
WebsiteProject Description: Rose’s Caribbean Kitchen will use the funds for kitchen renovations, upgraded equipment, and improved storage to boost production.
WebsiteProject Description: Ma Yve Grill will use the funds to upgrade equipment and increase staff capacity, enabling them to serve more customers efficiently.
WebsiteProject Description: Oakville Fish & Chips will use the funding for menu redevelopment, art installation, new decor and chairs, and a social media campaign.
WebsiteProject Description: Suya Royal Grill & Chill will use the funding to expand and renovate our space, upgrade kitchen equipment, and rebrand the restaurant to create a vibrant, welcoming environment.
WebsiteProject Description: Old Nassau Restaurant will use the funds for equipment, kitchen renovation, and marketing to scale sauce production and grow their brand.
WebsiteProject Description: Le Lion Blanc will use the fund to upgrade equipment and renovate its space. It will also improve its online presence with a new website and social media ads.
WebsiteProject Description: Chez Drey Inc will use the fund to buy professional equipment and quality ingredients to meet growing demand.
WebsiteProject Description: Atelier Zamara will use the fund to expand marketing through social media, influencer partnerships, events, and virtual baking workshops to grow its customer base.
WebsiteProject Description: Mixiebite’s will use the funding to boost marketing, improve delivery services, upgrade equipment, join events, and build a loyalty app to grow and connect with customers.
WebsiteProject Description: Manioky will use the funds for rebranding, social media content creation, and skill-building in latte art and food photography.
WebsiteProject Description: Plates Of Joy will use the fund to upgrade kitchen equipment and improve marketing. This will boost operations and increase visibility.
WebsiteProject Description: Ledinna’s Restaurant will use the fund to purchase a commercial refrigerator to improve food safety, reduce waste, and support service expansion.
WebsiteCongratulations to all Recipients!
Project Description: The $15,000 budget allocates $8,000 for renovations and cultural enhancements, including decor and lighting.
WebsiteProject Description: This grant will enable us to expand our catering services by purchasing essential food equipment.
WebsiteProject Description: We seek funding for renovations to enhance sustainability and customer experience.
WebsiteProject Description: The $10,400 grant will enhance our outreach to introduce Jamaican cuisine in British Columbia.
WebsiteProject Description: We're seeking funding to create a dedicated pastry station with new ovens and equipment to boost efficiency and meet growing demand.
WebsiteProject Description: Securing funding for a van will enhance Cafe Caye Mange’s market reach, boost brand visibility.
WebsiteProject Description: We seek $10,400 for branding and marketing at 13 SUNS Ethiopian Café to enhance visibility and attract new customers.
WebsiteProject Description: We’ll invest $10,400 in marketing to boost visibility and position our juices as a top choice through social media.
WebsiteProject Description: We request the full $10,400 grant for interior renovations to replace our stained ceiling and walls.
WebsiteProject Description: We request $10,400 to enhance Honey Soul Food's operations, expand community mentorship programs.
WebsiteProject Description: Our $10,400 grant will upgrade equipment and enhance marketing, allowing One More Cocoa to expand our product.
WebsiteProject Description: We request $10,400 to enhance brand visibility and community engagement through targeted social media campaigns.
WebsiteProject Description: We seek $10,400 to enhance our marketing and branding, focusing on digital strategy.
WebsiteProject Description: To improve our financial viability, we will enhance our marketing with a new website and social media strategies.
WebsiteProject Description: Global Pot Fusion Cuisine seeks funding to enhance our digital presence and host cultural events that promote African cuisine.
WebsiteCongratulations to all Recipients!
Project Description: Market expansion and branding
WebsiteProject Description: Upgrading restaurant interior
WebsiteProject Description: Market expansion and branding
WebsiteProject Description: Technology improvement
WebsiteProject Description: Upgrading cooking equipment
WebsiteProject Description: Market expansion and branding
WebsiteProject Description: Market expansion and branding
WebsiteProject Description: Upgrading cooking equipment
WebsiteProject Description: Upgrading restaurant interior
WebsiteProject Description: Market expansion and branding
WebsiteProject Description: Market expansion and branding
WebsiteProject Description: Upgrading cooking equipment
WebsiteProject Description: Upgrading cooking equipment
WebsiteGrants for Education and Health focused Initiatives. Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) aims to help dismantle the impacts of systemic anti-Black racism by allocating resources to community organizations which undertake initiatives that impact the quality of life in Canada’s Black communities.
In 2022, we are launching our first granting cycle through a generous funding commitment from TD Bank.
The focus areas for the 2022 BOF Grants Program will be Black-led, Black-serving and Black focused not-for-profits and charities leading impactful initiatives in the areas of Education and Health, which are two of BOF’s key priority areas.
Congratulations to all Recipients!
Project Description: To complete the blood donation culture research project.
WebsiteProject Description: Creation of a STEM curriculum to use at Ethos Lab that can be replicated to be used in schools and other educational settings, as well as design and delivery of STEM virtual workshops.
WebsiteProject Description: Training community advocates in case management to serve as connectors for people seeking to break the cycle of being in the crimminal justice system, creating the connections and relationships with police, Crowns and all diversion programs.
WebsiteProject Description: Chrome books for digitial access and learning to black community members, mentorship programs, education resources and all culturally focused programs.
WebsiteProject Description: Culturally relevelant skills coaching and mentorship to recent graduate Black women to support them on their transition to full-time employment in their field.
WebsiteProject Description: Culturally sensitive approach to career preparation, financial literacy and wellness support to Black High School students.
WebsiteProject Description: Increasing exposure and awareness on STEM career pathways for Black children and Youth through a combination of facilitated and self-led experiences, hands-on learning and mentorship.
WebsiteProject Description: A research project on the experiences of Black people in Canada’s healthcare system, and strategies of resistance and wellness, to address experiences of anti-Black racism.
WebsiteProject Description: Advocacy in Black communities on elections, elections process, important dates, how and why to get involved.
WebsiteProject Description: Creating public awareness of period poverty, menstrual equity, the health effects of inorganic menstrual products.
WebsiteProject Description: A Peer-to-Peer support program for people newly diagnosed, living with or at risk of HIV/AIDS.
WebsiteProject Description: Culinary Training for Black Youth to allow them to gain employment in the fast-food industry.
WebsiteProject Description: Provide a safe space and mental health support and resouces for Black youth and artists to learn and talk about mental health/wellness.
WebsiteProject Description: Skills Building Series incubation program to provide training, mentorship and skills development for Black youth, students and entrepreneurs.
WebsiteProject Description: Provide a culturally competent coaching program for vulnerable racialized youth who are in need of learning, enhancing, or supporting life skills to effectively transition into adulthood.
WebsiteProject Description: Mentorship program to provide participants with greater access to job opportunities and a nurturing environment that will enable them to thrive.
WebsiteProject Description: A virtual Campus that will give students access to virtual drop-in free tutoring, educational tools, and other culturally relevant resources through an Africentric lens.
WebsiteProject Description: Culturally sensitive counseling, mentoring, coaching and referrals services to eliminate black youth homelessness.
WebsiteProject Description: Summer Program for Black youth in Life Skills, Literacy and Numeracy.
WebsiteProject Description: The project will increase its collection of illustrated reading books offered to Black parents free, as they teach their children to read and help them develop the foundational reading skills.
WebsiteProject Description: Black Youth outreach in aviation industry awareness.
WebsiteProject Description: Supporting Black youth with appropriate and accessible educational resources that allow them to succeed academically, regardless of the environment in which they live.
WebsiteProject Description: Youth Financial Literacy.
WebsiteProject Description: Culturally adapted activities for Black children such as Summer camps, high school entrance exam preparation, and supporting parents through their children's transition to high school.
WebsiteCelebrating the 2025 Recipients of the Black Opportunity Fund Justice Grant.
We are proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) Justice Grant Program, delivered in partnership with TD Bank Group through the TD Ready Commitment, and The Law Foundation of Ontario.
This year’s Justice Grant supports Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-focused (B3) organizations across Canada advancing equitable access to justice and addressing systemic injustice. Aligned with BOF’s criminal justice mandate, the grant strengthens organizations delivering equity-driven services that foster lasting systemic change.
Among the 13 B3 recipients, their transformative work spans key areas such as reintegration, prevention and support services, mental health, legal reform, anti-racism advocacy, education, and engagement within Black communities.
“We are so pleased to be partnering again with the Black Opportunity Fund, and our fellow funder, TD Bank,” says Lisa Cirillo, CEO, The Law Foundation of Ontario. “This partnership allows us to expand our support for Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-focused not-for-profits in providing vital services and legal education to advance access to justice across Ontario.”
“Through the TD Ready Commitment, we’re proud to support community-led solutions aimed at addressing key challenges and increasing access to essential tools and services for underserved communities,” says Alicia Rose, Associate Vice President, Social Impact, TD Bank Group. “The Black Opportunity Fund’s Justice Grant Program recipients are on the front lines of this work in Canada, helping break down barriers in critical areas like reintegration, education, mental health, and legal support and creating opportunities for people to build connections and access the support they need to move forward.”
We extend our deepest gratitude to all the applicants who submitted their projects for consideration. The level of work and commitment displayed in each proposal was truly inspiring, making the selection process a challenging but rewarding task.
We would also like to thank our adjudicators and advisors who generously shared their time and expertise to identify our program recipients. Their invaluable contribution ensured a fair and thorough evaluation process.
We invite you to explore the full list of selected organizations at the link below and encourage you to share their work through your networks. Your continued support helps amplify the impact of these initiatives and advances the collective goal of justice and equity for Black communities across Canada.
Congratulations to our 2025 Justice Grant recipients!
Project Description: Pathways to Resilience helps youth build accountability and resilience through mentorship and restorative justice. It focuses on reducing crime and addressing trauma, social isolation, and systemic barriers.
WebsiteProject Description: This project uses Rule 77 to improve access to justice for New Brunswick’s Black community, offering legal support and training to self-represented litigants.
WebsiteProject Description: Breaking the Cycle supports Black youth in Yellowknife by addressing systemic issues and providing mentorship to prevent criminal activity. It builds resilience and career skills.
WebsiteProject Description: The Bail Verification Program helps Black individuals without fixed addresses get bail and navigate the justice system. It supports our mission to empower young Black males through education and opportunities.
WebsiteProject Description: JUSTREP provides advocacy and support for racialized workers facing discrimination. It aims to improve access to justice in federally regulated workplaces.
WebsiteProject Description: The CANCARO Black Justice Project supports Black youth in navigating systemic challenges in the justice system. It provides legal education, mentorship, and reintegration services.
WebsiteProject Description: The Black Mental Health Court Diversion Program helps individuals access services and avoid criminal court. It’s increased membership by 65% and advocates for equitable justice.
WebsiteProject Description: The Heritage Reintegration Program supports Black youth involved in the justice system. It provides culturally relevant counselling and life-skills support.
WebsiteProject Description: The Black Youth Diversion Program helps Black youth with mental health and prevention. It offers support to reduce incarceration and promote positive outcomes.
WebsiteProject Description: We Got You, Sis! helps Black women and girls survivors with mental health support, legal guidance, and community advocacy. It empowers them to navigate the justice system and share their stories.
WebsiteProject Description: DESTA’s Reentry program helps Black individuals reintegrate after incarceration. It offers advocacy, parole support, and access to community resources.
WebsiteProject Description: The Black Access to Justice Initiative provides legal, clinical, and re-entry support for Black individuals in the justice system. It aids with system navigation and successful reintegration.
Website