Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc.
Overview of Available Grants and Funding
Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc. is a registered Canadian charity founded in 2016 that provides financial bursaries to single parents in Manitoba pursuing post-secondary education. The organization awards bursaries twice yearly (September and January) to students enrolled at accredited Manitoba institutions who demonstrate financial need and have sole or primary custody of their children. As of 2025, the organization has awarded 29 bursaries totaling over $85,000. View Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc.'s website for more information.
Content last updated: March 24, 2026
About Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc.
What is the mission of Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc.?
To assist single parents struggling to afford a post-secondary education by providing meaningful financial support through bursaries, helping them pursue educational opportunities that can break the cycle of poverty for themselves and their children.
What type of organization is Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc.?
Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc. is a Foundation.
When was Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc. founded?
Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc. was founded in 2016.
What is Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc.'s official website?
Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc.'s official website is https://riseabovebursaries.ca/.
What else should I know about Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc.?
Role in the Funding Ecosystem
Rise Above Bursaries for Single Parents Inc. is a Manitoba-based charitable organization dedicated to supporting single parents who are working toward obtaining a post-secondary education. As a discretionary funding provider, the organization distributes bursaries based on financial need and eligibility criteria, rather than operating a formal government-style grant program.
General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Rise Above bursaries, applicants must: reside in Manitoba, Canada; have sole or primary custody of their child(ren); demonstrate financial need; be attending or applying to attend an accredited post-secondary institution in Winnipeg; and be recognized as a full-time student by their institution.
Funding Cycles and Application Process
The organization awards bursaries twice annually: a September bursary with applications typically available in late June or early July (deadline July 31st), and a January bursary with applications available in late September or early October (deadline October 31st). The selection process includes application review, short-listing of five applicants, video interviews, and final selection.
Transparency and Accountability
As a registered Canadian charity, Rise Above operates with a volunteer board of directors and publishes information about its impact, including the total number of bursaries awarded and total funds distributed. The organization publishes a list of accredited post-secondary institutions recognized by the Government of Canada.
History and Evolution
Founded in 2016, Rise Above was created to address the economic disadvantage faced by single-parent families, particularly those led by single mothers. According to 2021 Canadian Income Survey data, approximately 17.2% of families led by a single mother experienced poverty. The organization's mission is to help level the playing field by providing financial support for education.
Supported Audiences and Impact
The organization specifically supports single parents in Manitoba who are pursuing post-secondary education at accredited institutions. As of September 2025, Rise Above has awarded 29 bursaries totaling just over $85,000. The majority of funds are raised through private donors and community events such as trivia nights, dessert nights, and annual craft sales.