Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We have answers.
We are currently in the development phase of our funding programs and are not yet accepting applications.
We encourage you to check back regularly for updates on eligibility, application timelines, and future funding opportunities. You can also follow us on our website and social media channels for announcements.
The Foundation supports initiatives that align with our mission and vision of championing greater access to Mi’kmaw led education, supporting lifelong learning, elevating Mi’kmaw ways of knowing and creating an environment where Mi’kmaw language and culture flourishes with a vision that all community members will be able to create their path for today and the next seven generations.
Our initiatives have included the disbursement of financial awards to students from elementary to post-secondary levels, the creation of a Mi’kmaw language podcast and participating in a partnership to host a Treaty Education Symposium.
Our planned future initiatives with your support include the creation of the following:
- Scholarship fund to support post-secondary learners
- Student education and living fund to provide learners with additional supports, resources and programs
- Language and culture fund for initiatives such as language training, cultural workshops, land and sea-based learning programs, knowledge sharing circles and various professional development activities
There are many ways to support the Foundation to advance education, language, culture, and opportunities for learners across generations.
You can support our work by:
- Making a one-time or monthly donation
- Attending or supporting fundraising events and campaigns
- Hosting a fundraising event
- Sharing our mission and stories within your network
- Leaving a legacy or planned gift to support future generations
- Following us on social media
Your support, whether through giving, partnerships or creating awareness, contributes to stronger futures and communities. To learn more about ways to give or partnering with us, please visit our donations page or contact us at fame@kinu.ca
Supporting Mi’kmaw education helps create greater opportunities for learners, stronger communities, stronger economy and a more inclusive future for all.
Your contribution can:
- Support learners across all generations to thrive
- Increase access to culturally grounded learning opportunities
- Revitalize and preserve Mi’kmaw language and knowledge systems
- Advance reconciliation through meaningful action and partnership
Education is not only about academic success. Our view is that education is a holistic system that is about a connection to culture, strengthening identity and providing the ability for future generations to thrive.
By supporting the Foundation, you are investing in learners today while creating a lasting impact for the next seven generations.
No, non-Mi'kmaw students are not eligible funding through the Foundation. However, all students are encouraged to engage in Mi'kmaw education.
Yes. Official charitable tax receipts are issued for eligible donations in accordance with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) guidelines. The Foundation automatically provides receipts for donations of $10 or more. Receipts for donations of less than $10 are issued only upon request.
Yes. The Foundation is a registered Canadian charity and complies with all Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requirements for charitable organizations. Our charity number with CRA is 86626 2348 RR0001.
The Foundation invests in education, language and culture outcomes for all Mi’kmaw in Nova Scotia. The Foundation strives to empower and support learners, ensure consistent, equitable access to education and opportunity, build educational leadership and strengthen community capacity.
The Foundations vision is that is that all Mi’kmaw learners in Nova Scotia across all generations and communities will thrive through greater access to Mi’kmaw centered education, language, and culture so all community members can confidently create their own paths for today and the next seven generations.
The mission of the Foundation is to grow its capacity to invest in and champion greater access to Mi’kmaw led education across all generations by supporting lifelong learning, and elevating Mi’kmaw ways of knowing, while cultivating an environment where Mi’kmaw culture and language flourish within families and communities.
Yes. The Foundation supports learning at all ages.
Mi’kmaw education is a vital element of cultural preservation as it creates a pathway for language, stories, teachings and traditional knowledge to thrive now and into the future.
Examples of some key ways Mi’kmaw education contributes to cultural preservation include:
- Revitalization and protection of language – creation of Mi’kmaw books, Mi’kmaw digital resources, immersion programs and Mi’kmaw led education, all create opportunities for learners to hear, speak and practice Mi’kmaw language in classrooms, communities and cultural events.
- Land and sea-based learning- assists learners in understanding cultural relationships with the environment, stewardship and ways of knowing. Moving the classroom outdoors teaches learners cultural items such as medicinal plants, sustainable fishing and hunting practices, and nutrition.
- Knowledge sharing – Mi’kmaw education formalizes the role of elders within the school system, ensuring knowledge will be passed to the next generation. Through oral traditions, storytelling is used by elders to teach history, spirituality and lived experiences. The teaching of traditional arts such as basketry, beading and drum-making ensure these skills are not lost and will be passed onto future generations.
Mi’kmaw education is the cornerstone of cultural preservation. It ensures knowledge, traditions, language and history are passed from one generation to the next.