These community projects could get $100,000 with the help of your vote
When we encourage youth and promote sustainable development and entrepreneurship, our country grows stronger. That’s the inspiration behind the GoodSpark Fund, a $250-million pledge to support new investment in our communities.
The fund was launched in 2016 by Desjardins, the leading financial cooperative group in Canada. Money drawn from the fund supports projects that stimulate social and economic activity across Quebec and Ontario. Desjardins wants to support grassroots projects and give a boost to regional development.
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Entrepreneurs are the backbone of our communities, creating the businesses, jobs and opportunities that help us to flourish.
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That’s nothing new for the organization. Of the more than 400 projects Desjardins has backed since the fund was launched, it’s highlighting nine and giving the people behind them a chance to get closer to their dreams.
Canadians can vote for their favourite project in three categories: youth, sustainable development and entrepreneurship. The winners will be announced in December 2020 and will each receive $100,000.
The youth category is about projects that educate and encourage our leaders and builders of tomorrow.
The finalists here are getting creative about helping young Canadians achieve their goals. The 7 Fingers are helping at-risk youth come out of their shell and build self-esteem though circus arts. AgrÉcoles is bringing agri-food studies into the classroom to teach children about connecting with the earth. And Partenaires 12-18 is empowering teens in rural Quebec to develop community leadership and entrepreneurial skills.
The sustainable development category is about balancing economic, social development and encouraging environmental protection. These projects promote responsible farming, the circular economy and innovative sustainable development.
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By helping today’s youth to learn and lead, we’re setting ourselves up for generations of collective success.
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The finalists in this category demonstrate the wide range of possibilities to help achieve sustainability. Merinov serves as a hub for fishing and aquaculture research, and works to preserve and enrich marine ecosystems. La Mouche Rose gives farmers a natural alternative to chemical pesticides. And Synergie Montréal helps manufacturers adopt green industrial practices and reduce their waste.
The entrepreneurship category is about encouraging the pillars of any vibrant community. These projects support entrepreneurs and workers, foster employment and workforce training, and encourage social innovation.
These finalists are making an impact on key populations. Groupe TAQ is providing work for people with disabilities. TAACoMOBILE is connecting with isolated seniors to distribute locally grown food and provide other support. And the Mauril-Bélanger Social Innovation Workshop is helping launch organizations that fight poverty and improve communities.
You can learn more about the finalists and vote now. By weighing in on your favourite projects, you’re helping these organizations improve the well-being of people and communities.
Advertising feature produced by Globe Content Studio. The Globe’s editorial department was not involved.
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$150-million GoodSpark Fund from Desjardins to support people and communities