Call for Proposals: Land-Based Learning Initiatives (2026–27)
Purpose of the “Land-Based Learning” Program
BKCs Land-Based Learning (LBL) program aims to provide an immersive education experience to nurture talent and build knowledge braiding capacity across diverse learning pathways. The LBL program supports the braiding of knowledges, cultures, and languages, fundamental to learning place-based knowledge from Elders, knowledge holders, and researchers. Land-based learning activities can provide transformative educational experiences that strengthen connections with Indigenous ways of knowing while weaving together Indigenous and Western knowledges to foster intercultural competencies and create improved understanding.
Eligibility & Key Dates
BKC is supporting Land-Based Learning Initiatives in Canada, including urban, rural, and remote learning camps, that involve youth and have an emphasis on the braiding of knowledges. BKC’s LBL Program supported 12 annual initiatives in 2025/26, This is an Open Call for 2026/27 proposals.
For 2026/27, we invite proposals describing collaborative partnerships supporting youth, students, researchers, knowledge holders, and leaders in LBL initiatives focused on the braiding of knowledge systems. Eligible programs for this 2026/27 call include previously funded LBL initiatives (from BKC 2025/26) as well as new applicants. Initiatives should prioritize land-based learning and knowledge braiding, while equipping youth with essential skills for personal development, career advancement, and successful employment transitions. For the 2026/27 call, BKC encourages applications from Inuit- and Métis-led initiatives; and/or initiatives based in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada; and/or initiatives focused on urban youth and non-traditional land-learning environments.
We welcome projects and collaborative partnerships aiming to establish, build upon, and scale best practices in land-based learning, while also building local and institutional capacity over the long term.
- Funding Period: April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027
- Total BKC LBL Funding Envelope: $450,000
For further details on eligibility, matching funds, etc., please refer to the most recent Strategic Science Fund Program Guide here.
Budget Considerations
BKC welcomes proposals with estimated costs between $15,000 and $75,000 CDN (total including a maximum of 15% overhead) for 2026/27. Applicants must provide matching funds of a 1:0.8 ratio (i.e., 80% of the budget must be matched from non-federal sources, including both cash and in-kind contributions). For example, if the applicant applies for $50,000 CDN from BKC, they must also outline the source and amount of at least $40,000 in cash or in-kind contributions as a match. Additional guidelines for matching can be found here.
Ineligible costs include:
- Costs associated with the construction of, or major renovation to building and structures;
- The purchase or lease of land;
- Flat-rate charges for overhead costs (indirect costs); and
- The acquisition of major research equipment (with a net federal cost above $250,000).
Application Process and Adjudication of Proposals
Applicants will submit their proposal using the online form and describe how the proposed initiative meets BKC’s following adjudication criteria as well as how the project addresses BKC’s Training & Capacity objectives:
- Braiding of Knowledges
- All Our Relations
- People of Place
- Mutual Benefits
- Recognition of Gifts
Additional proposal sections assess the project’s potential Environmental Impact, Knowledge and Technology Transfer, Feasibility of Implementing the Proposal, and potential contributions to Federal Science Priorities.
In 2026/27, BKC encourages proposals that are Inuit- or Métis-led initiative; and/or based in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada; and/or focused on urban youth and non-traditional land-learning environments.
Adjudication of proposals will be according to BKC’s Project Review, Funding and Appeals Policy. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact kirsten@braidingknowledges.ca
Apply Now!
Submit your proposal by completing BKC’s Universal Proposal Template Form.
Deadline: January 12th at 4:30 p.m. MST (no exceptions)