Inside our Communities

Black Opportunity Fund’s 2023-24 Annual Report Video

17 October 2024

We’re excited to share highlights with you of the impactful work BOF achieved in 2023-2024, working to improve socio-economic outcomes for Black communities across Canada. Discover how we’ve been making a difference, empowering communities, and driving positive change. Watch now to see the impact of our work and join us in our mission to improve opportunities for Black Canadians.

Highlights include:

• Over $3.7 million allocated to support Black entrepreneurs and Black led, serving, and focused not-for-profits and charities (B3s) across Canada.
• $1 million used as collateral for loans for Black entrepreneurs declined loans by traditional banks.
• 1,448 Black businesses benefited from BOF supported capacity building programs
• $1,090,000 in grants given to Black community organizations leading impactful initiatives in Education, Health, Criminal Justice and Arts & Culture.
• $220,000 donated to Sick Kids Hospital to fund 2 important initiatives to improve outcomes for children being treated for Sickle Cell Disease.
• 244 Black entrepreneurs received non-repayable funding and subsidies to acquire permits, certifications and licenses, while enrolled in BOF supported capacity building programs.
• Launched a grant & capacity building program for Black led community organizations  in partnership with Black Canadian Fundraisers Collective.
• Led national convenings to support policy initiatives around improving outcomes for Black people in Canada in the critical areas of Health, and Justice.
• Set up the structure to launch two $50 million investment funds – one aimed at creating home ownership opportunities for Black Canadians, and the other to invest in Black led businesses.

#BlackOpportunityFund #AnnualReport #WeBackBlack #Empowerment #Community

Capitalism, Diversity & Inclusion Series: Black on Bay

22 August 2024

On September 4th, 2024, the Black Opportunity Fund in partnership with The Albany Club presents a compelling panel discussion as part of our Capitalism, Diversity & Inclusion Series: Black on Bay. This session will focus on “Celebrating Success and Overcoming Challenges,” featuring influential Black leaders from Bay Street who will share insights into their professional journeys.

Despite notable strides in diversity and inclusion initiatives, Black representation in executive roles remains scarce, and many Black professionals still experience cultural isolation and subtle forms of racism in their careers. The event presents an opportunity to hear from a passionate group of Black Bay Street leaders as they share their career journeys, the obstacles they’ve overcome, and the ongoing challenges that remain in the financial services sector.

Panelists Include:

• Konata T. Lake, Partner, Torys
• Kurankye Sekyi-Otu, Founder & CEO, Capoeira Partners
• Stanley Julien, Head, Special Accounts Management Unit – Canada, BMO
• Lori-Ann Beausoleil, CEO, Board Diversity Network, Retired PricewaterhouseCoopers Partner

The session is moderated by Colin Lynch, Managing Director & Head of Alternative Investments, TD Asset Management.

The panel discussion is followed by a networking reception and lunch. We thank CIBC for sponsoring the event.

For registration RSVP: reservations@albanyclub.ca or 416-364-5471 

Event Details:

Date: September 4th, 2024
Time: Reception at 11:45 am, Lunch at 12:15 pm
Price: Members: $49 | Guests: $69 (plus taxes and house charge)

We look forward to seeing you!

#BlackOnBay #BlackLeaders #Event #BlackOpportunityFund

CAREERS AT BOF: PROJECT MANAGER – CONTRACT POSITION

8 July 2024

Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) is seeking an energetic and motivated leader with a collaborative style who empowers and motivates others, to fill the newly created 3 year contract position of Project Manager.

Black Opportunity Fund aims to dismantle the impacts of systemic anti-Black racism in Canada by building a sustainable pool of capital to support Canada’s Black communities. This is achieved by allocating resources to Black-led community organizations leading initiatives that impact the quality of life in the Black community and facilitating access to capital for Black-led businesses to drive economic empowerment throughout the community.

REPORTS TO: BOF Manager of Programs

JOB SUMMARY:

Reporting to the BOF Manager of Programs, this position will be responsible for the day to day management of two (2) multi-faceted programs aimed at supporting the growth and development of Black Canadian entrepreneurs. This critical role will oversee the creation maintenance and monitoring of project plans, project schedules, budgets, and expenditures; as well as monitoring and reporting on performance metrics. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in managing complex projects as well as an understanding of entrepreneurship.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Working in a dynamic, team-based environment, the Project Manager’s primary responsibilities will involve overseeing the development, launch and evaluation of two (2) multi-faceted programs aimed at providing capacity building to Black Canadian entrepreneurs. The position will be responsible for:

• Determine and define project scope and objectives
• Predict resources needed to reach objectives and manage resources in an effective and efficient manner
• Prepare project budgets based on scope of work and resource requirements
• Track project costs and expenditures in order to meet budget
• Develop and manage a detailed project schedule and work plan
• Provide project updates on a consistent basis to various stakeholders about strategy, adjustments, and progress
• Manage contracts with vendors and suppliers by assigning tasks and communicating expected deliverables
• Utilize industry best practices, techniques, and standards throughout entire project execution
• Manage and monitor project progress by: tracking activity, tracking deadlines, resolving problems, publishing progress reports, and making adjustments as needed;
• Managing client deliverables as they relate to funding agreements
• Organization of, and participation in stakeholder meetings;
• Preparing presentation materials for meetings;
• Maintaining comprehensive project documentation in line with service level agreements;
• Communicate regularly with relevant stakeholders, staff, clients, and committees to provide status updates and a high level of customer service around short and long term project goals and deliverables.
• Performing other duties as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, business, or a related field
• 5-8 years of project management and related experience
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred
• Strong familiarity with project management software tools, methodologies, and best practices
• Experience seeing projects through the full life cycle
• Proven ability to complete projects according to outlined scope, budget, and timeline
• Proficiency with accounting software, spreadsheets and data management systems required;
• Ability to juggle multiple tasks and priorities, in a fast paced, diverse environment;
• Experience in data management and administration with a relational database system;
• Strong logic, analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Solid planning and organizational skills with high attention to detail, accuracy, protocol and deadlines.
• Experience building and managing program budgets.
• Excellent writing ability that is clear, concise and analytic in style.
• Exceptional presentation and facilitation skills,
• High level of discretion in maintaining confidentiality of sensitive materials and issues.
• Language proficiency in both English and French preferred

PERSONAL SKILLS

• High level of ethics and integrity
• Driven by a passion to support and grow community
• A collaborative team player
• Deep understanding of historic systemic barriers to opportunities faced by Black and other racialized Canadians
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Creative thinker and acts as an enabler to find innovative solutions
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities
• Demonstrate reliability, autonomy, and a strong capacity for initiative and independent judgement in a complex organization environment
• Well-developed emotional intelligence and political acuity
• Deep understanding of historic systemic barriers to opportunities faced by Black and racialized Canadians.

Salary: $80,000 per annum  plus participation in BOF extended benefits program.

Employee Benefits include:

• Extended health benefits – medical, dental, vision, mental health support, physio, massage, other specialist services;
• Company Supplied Equipment (for remote work) – laptop, phone;
• Non-traditional time off benefits – office closed between Christmas & New Year’s, closed Fridays in the summer months;
• Hybrid work arrangements;
• Opportunity to work for an organization whose mandate involves significant social impact.

Black Opportunity Fund is committed to fostering a collegial work culture grounded in diversity and inclusiveness. We strive to build a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we work in and serve.

To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to info@blackopportunityfund.org

DoorDash #BlackFoodEnergy Restaurant Grant

Call for Adjudicators

18 June 2024

Black Opportunity Fund is announcing a new funding opportunity to support Black-owned and Black-led restaurants with a company that shares our mission.

Black Opportunity Fund needs your help! We’re seeking Volunteer Selection Committee members to review and adjudicate applications for the program. Committee members will review submitted applications and make funding recommendations based on specific criteria and an established assessment process.

To express interest in volunteering as an adjudicator, please complete the Program Adjudication Nomination Form. You will be required to upload your resume and we would like it to indicate:

• Why you’re interested in volunteering for this position
• Experience working in the restaurant and/or foodservice industry
• Language(s) spoken
• The region of Canada in which you currently reside
• Previous experience reviewing or adjudicating grant applications

Program Adjudication Nomination Form Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NQJ59FB

Black Opportunity Fund encourages applications from every region across Canada. If you have any questions about becoming a volunteer adjudicator for this program, please send us an email at BOFVolunteers@blackopportunityfund.org. We look forward to hearing from all of you! #BOF #WeBackBlack

BOF Recommendations on Canada’s Black Justice Strategy

6 May 2024

As we approach the summer months, reams of data show that we can anticipate an increase in interactions between law enforcement and Black and Racialized communities. We can also anticipate an increase in retail profiling of Black Canadians, and in random stops predicated on racial profiling. We are hopeful that within the backdrop of this phenomenon, we will shortly see the release of Canada’s groundbreaking Black Justice Strategy. This is a generational opportunity by Government to develop a consistent framework to guide policy and practices to help dismantle systemic anti-Black racism in Canada’s Justice System.

Extensive national community consultations took place led by grassroots Canadian community organizations to inform the work of the Steering Committee. Black Opportunity Fund is proud to be a funder of the work of several of these organization. The Steering Committee, led by Professor Akwasi Owusu-Bempah, was tasked with developing the framework for the Black Justice Strategy.

Black Opportunity Fund’s National Justice Working Group consulted with and provided its recommendations to the Department of Justice and the Steering Committee. BOF’s National Justice Working Group, a coalition of grassroots organizations, scholars, Elders, cultural keepers, policy specialists, youth, and members of Black communities across Canada, working in various ways in myriad disciplines, to address systemic and structural inequities in the justice system.

We have seen previous consultations, on addressing the significant disparities in involvement with and outcomes for Black and Indigenous Canadians, which have fallen short, resulting in superficial recommendations focused primarily on symptoms, including recommendations for more policing, and police training. While there is certainly a need for more and better training of law enforcement, the strategy needs to be more about upstream solutions focused on  reparatory and restorative justice for Black Communities. So we are very hopeful to see meaningful actions and strategies in the recommendations, as a result of the extensive listening exercises, and the leadership of the Steering Committee.

Read the recommendations from the Black Opportunity Fund National Justice Working Group, to the Federal Government’s Black Justice Strategy, Click here to read BOF recommendations on Black Justice Strategy

TD’s Historic Partnership with Black Opportunity Fund

30 April 2024

Free Screening of Black Life: Untold Stories at The Halifax Central Library

19 April 2024

Presented in partnership with the Black Life Impact Foundation, the event will feature the episode, “Claiming Space.” Directed by Frances-Anne Solomon, it is a lyrical journey through the growth of Black communities, such as Africville, the government policies that destroyed these once thriving settlements, and the residents’ resistance to systemic displacement.

The event is free, but registration is required. To attend the event, please register here.

Please click here to learn more and read the article CBC’s Black Life: Untold Stories free screening at Halifax Central Library

Black Life: Untold Stories is now streaming on CBC’s free streaming app, CBC Gem.

BOF & BCFC Grant and B3 Capacity Building Program

Information Session

14 March 2024

Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) is pleased to be launching a grant and capacity building program for Canadian Black-led, Black-serving, and Black focused not-for-profits, and charities (B3s), in partnership with the Black Canadian Fundraisers Collective (BCFC) which will open for applications on March 25, 2024.

This program is made possible through generous funding support from the TD Ready Commitment and the RBC Foundation.

To provide support to potential applicants and answer questions about the program, BOF and BCFC are hosting an information webinar on March 20, 2024 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM EST.

About the BOF/BCFC B3 Capacity Development Program

The BOF/BCFC B3 Capacity Building Program is an 8-month program funded by Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) and delivered by Black Canadian Fundraisers Collective (BCFC), designed to provide Black-focused, Black-led, Black-serving nonprofits and charities, with funding and capacity development support that positions them to collaborate, lead and deliver community-determined solutions that effectively address identified community priorities and needs.

This pilot initiative is made possible through funding commitments from the TD Ready Commitment and the RBC Foundation. Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) is pleased to be partnering with BCFC and delivery partners Imagine Canada, Management Advisory Services (MAS) and the International Coaching Federation, Vancouver Chapter.

This BOF/BCFC grant and Capacity Building Program is national in scope, involving the selection of twenty-five B3 organizations from across Canada, delivering initiatives in one or more of BOF priority areas, however, program funding has been secured from philanthropic organizations – United Way Halifax, and The Toronto Foundation, to prioritize the participation of fifteen B3 organizations selected specifically from three communities (Halifax Regional Municipality and East Hants; the Greater Toronto Area; and Windsor-Essex County) in the pilot.

All organizations selected will receive $20,000 in funding to allocate according to their charitable purposes, operational and program needs. In addition to this funding, organizations selected to participate in the pilot will receive coaching support from certified professional Black coaches and access to mandatory training in key areas of nonprofit management. All applicants will have access to specifically curated online resources covering relevant topics critical in building and maintaining healthy, adaptable, and community-responsive organizations.

We require a commitment from applying organizations, that individual leaders selected from the organization to participate in the program, will be allowed the required time to invest and participate in all aspects of the program fully and will include at least one key leader/ decision-maker.

The B3 Organizations must commit to approximately 4.5 hours weekly and a total of 35 hours monthly to complete the mandatory elements of the capacity-building program. The overall program consists of 75 hours of content.

WEBINAR DETAILS

To provide support to potential applicants and answer questions about the program, BOF and BCFC are hosting an information webinar on March 20, 2024 from 6:30 – 7:30 PM EST.

During the 1-hour webinar, members of the BOF and BCFC Program teams will review the program, including eligibility and adjudication criteria, and hold an open Q&A for prospective applicants to address questions.

Applications open on March 25, 2024, and will close on April 24, 2024 at 11:59 PM EST.

About BOF & BCFC

Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) is a community-led registered Canadian Charitable organization that supports a prosperous, healthy, and thriving Black Canada by challenging anti-Black racism in two ways by:

1. Responding to long-standing underinvestment in Black communities
2. Working nationally to strengthen collective actions by Black organizations and leaders, helping them to create new and more impactful ways to support and advocate for our community.

BOF prioritizes initiatives around education, youth, health, women and gender, criminal justice, entrepreneurship, arts and culture, housing and shelter, and food insecurity, that impact the quality of life in Black communities across Canada.

The Black Canadian Fundraisers’ Collective (BCFC) is a group of Black identifying people, rooted in the historic African tradition of Ubuntu, “I am because you are. We exist to inspire and elevate our fundraising sector as the leading advocate and thought collective for Black Canadian philanthropy.

Anchored by its purpose and guided by its belonging and freedom values, BCFC’s Black Philanthropy Fund (BPF), in partnership with Carleton University, offers the Award for Black Emerging Fundraising Professionals enrolled in the Master of Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership (MPNL). The award promotes Black leadership within the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors by making education more accessible through this meaningful and impactful financial support.

Secure your seat register by clicking here

Please note this is a secure call, only those who have registered and received the link will be permitted onto the call.

BOF & BCFC Grant and B3 Capacity Building Program

Call for Adjudicators

13 March 2024

The Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) and Black Canadian Fundraisers Collective (BCFC) are seeking volunteer Adjudicators to review and adjudicate applications for their upcoming granting and capacity building program for Black-led, Black-serving, Black-focused nonprofits, and charities (B3s). 

Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) will be launching a grant and capacity building program for Canadian Black-led, Black-serving, and Black-focused not-for-profits and charities, in partnership with the Black Canadian Fundraisers Collective (BCFC) on March 25, 2024. 

This program is made possible through generous funding support from the TD Ready Commitment and the RBC Foundation. 

The upcoming BOF & BCFC grant and capacity building program will be available to B3s serving nonprofit organizations and charities delivering initiatives in any of BOF priority areas of: education, youth, health, women and gender, criminal justice, entrepreneurship, arts and culture, housing and shelter, and food insecurity. 

About the BOF/BCFC B3 Capacity Development Program

The BOF/BCFC B3 Capacity Building Program, is an 8-month program funded by Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) and delivered by Black Canadian Fundraisers Collective (BCFC), designed to provide Black-focused, Black-led, Black-serving not-for-profits, with flexible funding and capacity development support that positions them to collaborate, lead and deliver community-determined solutions that effectively address identified community priorities and needs. 

This pilot initiative is made possible through funding commitments from the TD Ready Commitment and the RBC Foundation. Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) is pleased to be partnering with BCFC and delivery partners Imagine Canada, Management Advisory Services (MAS) and the International Coaching Federation, Vancouver Chapter. 

This BOF/BCFC grant and Capacity Building Program is national in scope, involving the selection of twenty-five B3 organizations from across Canada, delivering initiatives in one or more of BOF priority areas, however, program funding has been secured from philanthropic organizations – United Way Halifax, and The Toronto Foundation, to prioritize the participation of fifteen B3 organizations selected specifically from three communities (Halifax Regional Municipality and East Hants; the Greater Toronto Area; and Windsor- Essex County) in the pilot.

All organizations selected will receive $20,000 in funding to allocate according to their charitable purposes, operational and program needs. In addition to this funding, organizations selected to participate in the pilot will receive coaching support from certified professional Black coaches and access to mandatory training in key areas of non-profit management. All applicants will have access to specifically curated online resources covering relevant topics critical in building and maintaining healthy, adaptable, and community-responsive organizations.

We require a commitment from applying organizations, that individual leaders selected from the organization to participate in the program, will be allowed the required time to invest and participate in all aspects of the program fully and will include at least one key leader/ decision-maker.

The B3 Organizations must commit to approximately 4.5 hours weekly and a total of 35 hours monthly to complete the mandatory elements of the capacity-building program. The overall program consists of 75 hours of content.

ADJUDICATOR APPLICATION DETAILS

Persons interested in being considered as adjudicators can self-nominate or nominate someone else if the person being nominated has given permission in advance. The overall responsibility of the Adjudication Committee is to:

1. Review all grant applications presented for consideration in the grant.
2. Rank all grant applications based on objective criteria and an assessment process established by BOF.
3. Make recommendations for funding and capacity building 

 As this is a national granting program, BOF encourages applications from individuals from all regions of Canada.

Successful candidates will have a clear understanding of, and alignment with, BOF’s mandate, vision, and mission. 

• An understanding of anti-Black racism and systemic racism and their effects on Canada’s Black communities.
• The ability to apply BOF criteria and make recommendations in a fair and unbiased manner.
• An understanding of the barriers facing Black-led, Black community serving nonprofits and charities due to systemic racism.
• Bilingualism will be considered an asset.
• Previous experience reviewing or adjudicating grant applications, or experience working for a Black community-focused nonprofits or charities will be considered an asset.

Black Opportunity Fund is committed to being inclusive of the full spectrum of the Black Canadian experience, so we particularly encourage applications from individuals representing diverse identities such as gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, age, immigration status, language, and national geographical location.

Adjudication Committee Members will be required to participate in a virtual orientation session in March as well as sign a confidentiality agreement.

The deadline to submit the application is Sunday March 31st, 2024.

Successful applicants should expect to volunteer up to thirty (30) hours before May 31, 2024.

Social Economy through Social Inclusion (SETSI) Interview with Ray Williams Chair & Co-Founder of the Black Opportunity Fund

11 March 2024

Ray Williams, Chair and Co-Founder of the Black Opportunity Fund, shares his background and motivation for his work in this interview. Williams has held various leadership roles, including being the past president of the Canadian Association of Financial Professionals and the current chair of the Black Opportunity Fund. Williams emphasizes the importance of equity and access in all areas of life and expresses his desire to help his communities and inspire change, particularly in the financial industry. He also shares how the Black Opportunity Fund aims to build sustainability, achieve economic and social impact, and create capacity for Black entrepreneurs.

BOF Investment Principal Position Brief

14 February 2024

Black Opportunity Fund, a charitable foundation focused on advancing socio-economic opportunities for Black Canadian communities, is in the process of launching a $50 million CDN investment fund, which will engage in impact investing in Black-led companies. We are seeking a Managing Partner, who will be responsible for origination, due diligence, execution (including structuring and funding), post-transaction portfolio management and value addition in line with the firm’s investment strategy.

The candidate will assume a lead role in investments, participate in BOF Capital’s investment committee, and play a leadership role in the firm in terms of strategy, governance, business decision-making and fundraising. The candidate will be joining a newly created entity, and will have the opportunity to recruit and build the investment team. As such the candidate is required to have entrepreneurial attributes, and a shared sense of purpose and values with Black Opportunity Fund.

The firm will shortly be raising a new $50 million private equity fund focused on investing in established Black-led companies with growth potential, as well as co-investing in early stage companies with other Black-focused VCs. The firm is also preparing to launch a similar size fund aimed at creating a pathway to homeownership for Black Canadians, through a shared equity model. BOF has already secured a significant commitment of capital from National Bank of Canada, and is in advanced conversations with several other institutional investors for similar commitments.

This is a unique opportunity to build and lead an investment firm with a strong focus on catalyzing social impact and advancing sustainable economic empowerment for Canada’s Black communities.

BOF Investment Principal Profile

Habitat for Humanity GTA Homes

Affordable Homeownership Opportunities through Habitat for Humanity

12 February 2024

Unlock the benefits of a home of your own now. Habitat for Humanity GTA is offering homes across the Greater Toronto Area, from Oshawa to Brampton, for families, couples and individuals like yourself. If your household income is between $65K and $130K and you are struggling to afford a home in this market, Habitat GTA has a home that may be right for you!

Why partner with Habitat GTA?

• No down payment: it can take decades to save for a down payment, Habitat GTA’s homes don’t require one.
• Affordable mortgage: families pay a first mortgage geared to income while Habitat GTA provides a second mortgage to bridge the gap.
• Peace of mind: you won’t spend more than 32% of your income on shelter, leaving room for building savings, investing in education and more. · Homes available near where you live and work: 58 & 62 Sky Harbour Drive (Brampton), 25 William Street (Brampton), 485 Normandy Street (Oshawa), 423 Old Weston Road (Toronto), 500 Wilson Avenue (Toronto).

Homes Feature:

• Zero downpayment required
• 1 – 4 bedrooms
• 1 – 3 bathrooms
• 483 – 1530 square feet
• Parking included at most communities

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

• You are employed full-time or full-time equivalent
• You hold 3 years of consecutive employment history in Canada
• You are first time homebuyers and cannot afford a purchase on your own

Select homes have been delivered in part by CMHC’s federal funding for first-time homeowner Black families in the GTA. Eligible applicants must have at least one person in their household who identifies as Black when applying for select units.

Ready to apply? We encourage you to learn more about the program, see unit details and start your application: https://habitatgta.ca/homeownership/

Questions? Please contact the Habitat GTA team at families@habitatgta.ca

Habitat GTA Homes – Feb 2024

BOF & Air Canada Collaborate!

Supporting Black Communities Nationwide

10 February 2024

Black Opportunity Fund is teaming up with Air Canada to amplify our mission! Keep an eye out for our ad on inflight entertainment, on your next Air Canada flight!

Throughout Black History Month Air Canada will be showcasing a 15-second promo for BOF on all domestic and international flights, highlighting some of our notable impacts and achievements over the past year, ending with a call for donations. This unparalleled exposure provides an exceptional opportunity to amplify BOF’s message to diverse audiences.

Thank you, Air Canada, for your ongoing commitment to advancing equity, and your generous support to amplify our mission and message of empowering Black communities across Canada. Keep an eye out for further announcements on this exciting partnership!

Beyond the Decade: Moving from Hashtags to Action

A Keynote & Conversation with Gaynel Curry with Moderator Craig Wellington

31 January 2024

To sign up, please use the below link or scan the QR code displayed on the flyer

Black Opportunity Fund cordially invites you to Beyond the Decade: Moving from Hashtags to Action, a conversation with Gaynel Curry Independent Expert Member of the UN Permanent Forum of People of African Descent

In this engaging conversation, we will examine the achievements of the UN Decade for People of African Descent, discuss the need for a 2nd Decade, and delve into the ongoing efforts required. Our focus will be on the current and emerging opportunities and threats impacting the socio-economic advancement of people of African Descent on the continent and throughout the Diaspora.

The UN Permanent Forum of People of African Descent, which became operational on 2 August 2021 through UN General Assembly resolution 75/314, serves as a platform for improving the safety and quality of life and livelihoods of people of African descent. It also serves as an advisory body to the Human Rights Council.

Ms. Curry, with over 23 years of experience at the United Nations, has made significant contributions to the International Decade for People of African Descent. Her various roles have included Human Rights Advisor in Geneva and Gender and Women’s Rights Advisor in New York, with key portfolios in Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Timor-Leste.

This event is proudly presented by the Black Opportunity Fund, the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, and The McGill Centre for Human Rights & Legal Pluralism, along with Miller Thomson, Centre for Criminology and Sociolegal Studies – University of Toronto, and Diversity Institute – Ted Rogers School of Management

Date: February 8, 2024

Time: 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Location: MILLER THOMSON LLP, Scotia Plaza, 40 King Street West, Suite 5800

#WeBackBlack #BeyondTheDecade #UNDecadeAfricanDescent #AfricanDiasporaAction #HumanRightsDialogue #AdvancingAfricanDescent

Please be aware that space is limited, and only individuals who have registered in advance will be allowed to attend.

Black Opportunity Fund board member Eleanor McIntosh appointed as new HDSB Superintendent of Education

22 January 2024

We are pleased to announce that Black Opportunity Fund board member, Eleanor McIntosh, has been appointed as the new Superintendent of Education at the Halton District School Board (HDSB) effective January 29, 2024!

This position is an addition to the senior team, to help the HDSB continue to achieve success in student learning and further the goals of the HDSB Multi-Year Plan.

With her rich experience spanning over two decades, Eleanor has served in various educational leadership roles and has been a dedicated community advocate. She began her career as an elementary math and science teacher and has been a school administrator in the Durham District School Board for 20 years, where she served diverse school communities in five different schools. In addition to working in a variety of settings with a number of specialized programs in Ontario and internationally, Eleanor has served in several key roles. These include Vice-principal, centrally assigned Education Officer, and Secondary School Principal.

Eleanor, who serves as Chair of Black Opportunity Fund’s Education Task Force, has always been an inspirational leader, advocating for inclusive and transformative education. We wish Eleanor success in this newest chapter in her journey, with the Halton District School Board, helping to catalyze student learning and educational excellence.

Breaking Barriers, Inspiring Generations: The Historic Lincoln Alexander Bust Project

22 January 2024

In Canada’s rich history, the Honourable Lincoln ‘Linc’ MacCauley Alexander stands tall as a pioneer, his legacy now made permanent at Queen’s Park. Today, January 21st, marks not only a tribute but a celebration of the ongoing preservation of his indomitable spirit. Through our commitments to preserve his legacy, we are ensuring that his contributions will continue to inspire future generations to come.

In this historic moment, the Black Opportunity Fund extends heartfelt gratitude to all who bore witness and supported this project. Your commitment has made this living legacy possible, and we are honoured to share in this historic event.

This bust is more than a sculpture, it is a testament to the power of representation and the acknowledgment of diverse voices within the fabric of Canada’s history. Embracing Lincoln Alexander’s legacy, we recognize that his impact transcends history books and still exists in our present day. We celebrate and uplift Linc as he did for Black communities across the country.

As we head towards another exciting month celebrating Black history and Black futures, let us renew our commitment to fostering an environment where diversity flourishes, allowing the dreams of every Canadian, past, present, and future, to soar.

2023 BOF Annual Report

11 January 2024

The Black Opportunity Fund 2023 Annual Report has been prepared to present and account for our fiscal responsibilities, operating activities, and achievements, to community, stakeholders, and funders for the fiscal year ended March 31st, 2023. The report is available for viewing.

BOF ‘Watch To Give Back’ on Amazon Prime Video Canada

8 January 2024

Black Opportunity Fund (BOF), is starting the year with an impactful partnership with Amazon Prime Video’s ‘Watch To Give Back’ initiative.

Beginning January 3rd, continuing through Black History Month until February 28th, Amazon Prime Video Canada will donate 100% of proceeds from the rental or purchase of over 20 featured titles to Black Opportunity Fund to help support our mandate of improving socio-economic outcomes for Black Canadians.

The curated titles, highlighting Black talent and Black stories, include: Big George Foreman, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Boomerang, Brother, Coach Carter, Creed, Fences, Judas and the Black Messiah, Just Mercy, King Richard, Love & Basketball, Malcolm X, Moonlight, NOPE, Remember the Titans, Selma, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Stomp The Yard, The Blackening, The Color Purple, The Equalizer, Think Like a Man, and Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody.

This innovative partnership is an amazing opportunity for everyone to be a part of our mission, while showcasing cinema that celebrates the richness of Black stories and talent.

Let’s watch, and give back together! Help make a difference.
For more details about the initiative, visit https://www.primevideo.com/giveback  

#WatchToGiveBack #BlackHistoryMonth #WeBackBlack #AmazonPrimeVideo #Donate

BLCK VC Canada

14 November 2023

The Black Opportunity Fund, in partnership with BLCK VC, came together in September to celebrate the launch of BLCK VC Canada! An exciting milestone for Canada’s growing Black venture community and BLCK VC’s first non-US chapter! Kudos to the many partners who came together to make this happen, including BOF’s Executive Director, Craig Wellington who was a panelist at the event. The establishment of BLCK VC Canada formalizes a community that has been flourishing for several years and will continue to serve as a central hub for even more Black-led and Black-focused venture funds, accelerators, players, founders, and more.

Visit the link to learn more https://www.blckvc.org/

Featured Panelists and attendees

• Frederik Groce, Co-Founder, BLCK VC and Deal Lead, Wellington Management
• Isaac Olowolafe, Managing Partner, BKR Capital
• Kim Furlong, CEO of CVCA
• Sunil Sharma, Managing Partner, techstarts Toronto Accelerator
• Upkar Arora, CEO of Rally Assets
• Craig Wellington, Executive Director of the Black Opportunity Fund
• Abdullah Snobar, CEO of DMZ Ventures
• Wils Theagene, Head of CDPQ’s $250M Diverse Founders Fund

BLCK VC Canada Co-Founders

• Ahmed Ismail, Wellington Management
• Josh Olowafe, CIBC Innovation Banking
• Abdel Ali, Founder of Kiwi Charge (EV Charging Start-up)
• Derrick Raphael, Co-Founder and CEO of ICON Talent Partners

Black Opportunity Fund – Year 3 Highlights video

25 October 2023

BOF donation propels the creation of the Hon. Lincoln Alexander’s bust at Queen’s Park

27 September 2023

BOF is very pleased to announce the kickoff of the artistic process for the creation of a bust of the Hon. Lincoln M. Alexander, that will be placed on permanent display inside the Queen’s Park Legislative Building in January of 2024, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of January 21st being declared annually as Lincoln Alexander Day in Ontario.

Black Opportunity Fund is proud to be supporting this important legacy project and funding the work of award-winning artist Quentin VerCetty. Thanks to the leadership for this project by the #LincBustCommittee led by Rosemary Sadlier OOnt – Champion of Black History Month and @License2Learn with Zeib Jeeva, O.Ont. .

This will be the first statue of a Black person ever displayed at Queen’s Park, and it will be part of the Queen’s Park educational tours. Visibility is Possibility. An interview with me and artist Quentin from his studio, will air this evening on CTV News. September 20th is the date in 1968 when Linc was sworn in as Canada’s first Black member of Parliament. September 20th was also the date in 1985 when Lincoln Alexander was sworn in as Canada’s first Black Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.

CAREERS AT BOF – FINANCE & BUSINESS PROGRAMS SPECIALIST

21 August 2023

Black Opportunity Fund (BOF) is seeking an energetic and motivated team player to fill the position of Finance & Business Programs Specialist.

Black Opportunity Fund is a community-led registered Canadian Charitable organization, whose mandate is to dismantle anti-Black racism by establishing a sustainable pool of capital to fund Black led businesses and Black led not for profits and charities, in order to improve the social and economic well-being of Canada’s Black communities.

Reporting to the Director, Finance & Operations, this position will support full cycle finance, accounting and operations as well as supporting, facilitating and tracking funding disbursements to grant and loan recipients, tracking metrics and reporting for funded businesses and community organizations. In addition to a background in accounting, the ideal candidate possesses related experience in a direct customer facing role in a banking or other financial institution.

For more information, please visit Welcome to Hudson Group Jobs

BLACK OPPORTUNITY FUND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NAMED TO THE 2023 TOP 100 CANADIAN PROFESSIONALS

3 August 2023

Black Opportunity Fund is proud to announce that Executive Director, Craig Wellington has been selected as one of Canada’s Top 100 Canadian Professionals for 2023.

Craig Wellington is a strong believer in the Swahili principle of Ubuntu— ‘I am because we are’ — that when all communities are allowed to achieve their potential, everyone is uplifted. That’s why, as executive director of the Black Opportunity Fund (BOF), he’s working to establish equitable, sustainable funding for the social and economic empowerment of Black communities across Canada. He uses his considerable expertise in not-for-profit and community leadership to develop and execute innovative strategies to secure and deploy capital for community good, while always maintaining an anti-oppression lens with a focus on community engagement and partnerships. Prioritizing initiatives around youth and education, women and gender, criminal justice, entrepreneurship, health, and arts and culture, BOF seeks to elevate the outcomes for generations of Black Canadians.

Read the full feature article from Top 100 Canadian Professionals Magazine.

3RD ANNIVERSARY VIRTUAL TOWNHALL

28 June 2023

In celebration of Black Opportunity Fund’s 3rd anniversary, join the BOF team for a virtual townhall on June 29th!

Open to all community members and supporters, the BOF team will deliver updates on the progress made over the last 3 years, as well as discuss upcoming goals and initiatives. Attendees will be able to ask questions and provide feedback on initiatives and priorities directly.

Date: Thursday June 29th, 2023
Time: 6:30 PM EST

As an organization, BOF Is committed to transparency and meaningful community engagement. This work cannot be fully realized without community, and many perspectives are necessary to ensure BOF fulfills its mandate to serve and empower Canada’s diverse Black communities.

To attend, please register at https://share.hsforms.com/1ambbh6yORneLd0L9oZ8Ncg4xq13

See you there!

BOF & Black Life: Untold Stories – Public Engagement and Educational Impact Campaign

21 March 2023

Black Opportunity Fund is a National Community Impact Partner to the Black Life Impact Foundation, taking part in the Black Life: Untold Stories – Public Engagement and Educational Impact Campaign a ground-breaking initiative to deepen public knowledge about Canada’s Black history.

Launching March 21st, 2023 – the International Day for the Elimination of Racism, the campaign is centered around the Black Life: Untold Stories, an 8-part documentary series that will take audiences on a journey through more than 400 years of history, highlighting the vital role that Black people in Canada have played in shaping our country. Presenting an unvarnished examination of the idea of Canada as a sanctuary, while also focusing on contemporary issues affecting the Black community. The series will premiere in the coming 2023-24 broadcast year on CBC and CBC Gem.

The campaign will deepen and expand the series’ reach beyond the tv broadcasts, with an educational learning hub and digital museum, live viewing events, and cultural products. Funds will support cross-country engagement events.

For more information, please visit: www.blacklifeseries.com

If you would like to help support this great initiative, donate at:

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/72659