Home / Sports / Canada Invests Millions in Indigenous Sport for Social Change
Canada Invests Millions in Indigenous Sport for Social Change
2 Jun
Summary
- Federal government invests $22.8 million in Indigenous-led sport programs.
- Funding aims to expand access to culturally relevant sport and physical activity.
- Initiatives will support youth, women, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and persons with disabilities.
As of June 2, 2026, the Canadian federal government has committed $22.8 million to Indigenous-led initiatives through the Sport for Social Development in Indigenous Communities (SSDIC) program for the 2026-2028 funding cycle. This investment aims to significantly expand access to sport and physical activity opportunities for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people across Canada.
The program prioritizes culturally relevant and community-designed programming, focusing on empowering Indigenous individuals, including youth, women, girls, 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. Secretary of Sport Adam van Koeverden stated that this funding helps break down participation barriers and creates thriving spaces for all.
Since its inception in 2019, the SSDIC program has supported hundreds of communities. The current investment is divided into three streams. Stream 1 allocates $10.6 million to Provincial/Territorial Aboriginal Sport Bodies and the Aboriginal Sport Circle. Stream 2 dedicates $7.2 million to Indigenous governments and organizations for projects focused on improved health, education, and employability. Stream 3 provides $7.2 million for 34 projects addressing physical and mental health, suicide prevention, and awareness of sexual trafficking.
