Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Credit Union Foundation of BC (CUFBC)

The Credit Union Foundation of BC (CUFBC) is a province-wide charitable foundation created in 1958 by British Columbia credit unions. Collectively funded through annual dues from all BC credit unions, along with individual donations, memorials and bequests, the foundation channels this capital into bursaries, scholarships and grants that help students overcome barriers to post-secondary education. Its focus is on BC residents who demonstrate financial need, face additional challenges such as caregiving or disability, and embody co‑operative and community‑driven values.

CUFBC’s flagship Post-Secondary Bursary Program supports students attending public Canadian post-secondary institutions. The program has clearly defined eligibility criteria, regular winter and fall application periods, and a structured review process overseen by an awards committee. Successful applicants receive direct financial assistance via e‑transfer, with the possibility of multiple awards per year, helping reduce tuition and living‑cost pressures.

The foundation administers an extensive portfolio of named memorials and trust funds established by credit unions, families and partners to honour pioneers of the credit union and co‑operative movement. Income from these funds is used to provide targeted bursaries to particular communities, fields of study or institutions, while many remain open to students in any discipline. CUFBC also provides annual grants directly to public colleges and universities across British Columbia, which then disburse awards through their own financial aid and awards offices.

To mark its 50th anniversary, the foundation partnered with donors to create endowed funds at several post-secondary institutions, further embedding credit union–supported bursaries within campus award portfolios. These arrangements diversify access points for students and extend the reach of the foundation’s support throughout the province.

Beyond student bursaries, CUFBC oversees the BC Credit Union Distinguished Service Awards, which recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the credit union system and the broader co‑operative movement. It also administers specialized awards such as the Emerging Leadership Award, which funds training and professional development for members of the BC Emerging Leaders Network seeking to deepen their leadership skills and engagement with co‑operative principles.

The foundation’s mandate extends internationally through selected trust funds that support co‑operative and credit union development projects overseas, as well as grants to Canadian institutions working in related areas. This combination of local educational support, leadership funding and international co‑operation situates CUFBC as a key philanthropic actor within the co‑operative finance ecosystem.

CUFBC is incorporated under the Society Act of British Columbia and governed by a volunteer board of trustees drawn from across the credit union system. Trustees are responsible for investing capital prudently and disbursing income in line with donor intent and program objectives. The foundation maintains low overhead, with no physical office, to maximize the share of resources directed to bursaries, grants and awards.

Through its mix of province-wide bursaries, institution‑specific awards, endowed funds and recognition programs, the Credit Union Foundation of BC provides sustained financial support to students and emerging leaders, reinforcing the co‑operative principle of people helping people throughout British Columbia and beyond.