Fondation Demain is a private philanthropic foundation located in Montréal, Quebec, dedicated to supporting the social and educational integration of refugee and immigrant families. Its core focus is on encouraging the pursuit of post‑secondary studies at vocational (DEP), college (DEC) and university (bachelor’s) levels by reducing financial barriers for newcomers.
Role of Fondation Demain in the funding ecosystem
The foundation primarily provides direct financial assistance in the form of scholarships and study bursaries to eligible students, as well as occasional donations to community organizations serving vulnerable families. Its activities are concentrated in the Montréal and South Shore regions, where many newcomer families settle and where the need for educational support is significant.
Main types of funding and target groups
- Scholarships for immigrant and refugee students: Recurring bursary contests offer multiple awards, often 10 scholarships of defined amounts, to students enrolled in post‑secondary institutions in the Montréal and Rive‑Sud area. Awards aim to cover school-related costs and encourage perseverance.
- Support for essential needs: In addition to study-related expenses, the foundation may provide donations to address other essential needs that improve the quality of life of refugee and immigrant families.
- Partnership grants to organizations: News items show collaborations with schools and community partners, such as donations to the Centre d’action bénévole de la Vallée‑du‑Richelieu and joint bursary initiatives with other charities.
General eligibility and application approach
Eligibility criteria for the main scholarship program focus on immigrant or refugee status, residence in Québec (Montréal and South Shore), and proof of enrolment in a recognized post‑secondary institution. Applicants must submit a form and a short written statement explaining why they deserve a scholarship. Detailed regulations describe admissibility, the number and value of bursaries, selection process by a jury, and key deadlines.
Beneficiaries and impact
Through its bursary contests, Fondation Demain has supported numerous finishing high‑school students and post‑secondary candidates, with public lists of recipients and testimonials highlighting the impact of the funding on their studies and motivation. The combination of individual scholarships and strategic community donations positions the foundation as a niche but meaningful actor in educational and social integration funding for newcomers in the Montréal region.