Our ImpactAs a project on MakeWay’s shared platform, the Ontario Indigenous Youth Partnership Project (OIYPP) has a proven history of administering substantial resources by and for Indigenous young people across Ontario. We fund diverse, community-driven work on simple, accessible terms. Our process is efficient, community-informed, and grounded in listening.
Between 2019 and 2022, OIYPP funded 51 community-led projects, distributing a total of $233,574 to Indigenous youth-led initiatives across the province. In 2025, we relaunched our funding stream through the Makakikedaa Grant cycle, an inspiring new chapter for our project. In Anishinaabemowin, Makakikedaa means “Let’s build a basket,” a phrase that beautifully captures the spirit of this grant. Together with youth, community, and supporters, we are weaving a basket filled with learning, sharing, and reciprocity. We are thrilled to share that in 2025, we received 58 applications, the highest number in OIYPP’s history. We are deeply grateful to all the Indigenous youth who took the time to engage with us, share their visions, and submit proposals. Each application reflected hope, connection, and care for the community. After thoughtful discussions, laughter, shared meals, and deep engagement with each proposal, our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) selected 22 youth-led projects to receive a combined $116,199 in funding, another record for OIYPP. This marks the largest number of projects funded in a single year. Common themes among the 22 Indigenous youth-led projects funded in 2025 included:
Land- and water-based learning opportunities;Indigenous language learning and revitalization;Traditional Indigenous ceremonies;Traditional arts such as basket making, hide tanning, regalia creation, and beading. These initiatives reflect the deep connection between culture, healing, and community well-being that Indigenous youth are championing across the province. |
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Our goal is to create a community of celebrated Indigenous youth leading work that responds to the dynamic needs and priorities of their communities. This work is done in partnership with a network of individuals, organizations and funders who all share a commitment to the values of OIYPP.
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