Grant and Funding Programs Offered by University of Manitoba Business School Foundation (UMBSF)

The University of Manitoba Business School Foundation (UMBSF) is a registered charity and corporate umbrella created in 1990 to support the I.H. Asper School of Business. Separate from the university but closely affiliated, the Foundation channels the philanthropy and influence of a large network of senior business leaders known as the Associates and Young Associates. Its mission is to inspire and enable excellence in business education by attracting financial resources and connecting the school to Manitoba’s business community.

UMBSF oversees and finances a portfolio of awards, bursaries, fellowships and strategic initiatives that benefit Asper students, faculty and programs. It plays a central role in linking private-sector donors and executives to academic priorities, ensuring the business school can compete as a world‑class institution.

Through the Associates and related programs, the Foundation supports numerous forms of financial assistance. Student-focused funding includes the Associates’ Enterprise Award, a substantial merit‑based prize for enterprising undergraduate business students; International Study Awards for top participants in the international exchange program; and awards recognizing achievement in the MBA, MFin and other graduate programs. These initiatives combine academic performance, leadership and entrepreneurial accomplishment as core selection criteria.

For faculty, the Foundation backs the Associates Achievement Awards and the Associates Fellowships, which provide significant annual funding for research, teaching, engagement and thematic fellow roles (for example in entrepreneurship, sustainability, finance, supply chain management, marketing and ethics). Recipients can allocate portions of their awards to research, travel, educational activities and other professional development that advances Asper’s impact.

Beyond individual awards, UMBSF funds broader school support. The School Support portfolio describes donations to bursary funds for students facing sudden financial hardship, such as a $50,000 contribution to assist Asper students who lost employment or co‑op positions during COVID‑19. The Foundation also contributes to student competitions, conferences, case teams, student action groups and capital projects that enhance learning spaces and visibility within the Drake Centre.

UMBSF’s support extends to high‑profile events and programs, including sponsorship of the Visionary Indigenous Business Excellence (VIBE) Awards, support for the Stu Clark New Venture Championships and JDC West Team Toba, and contributions to career development and networking events. These investments help students gain experiential learning, professional networks and exposure to Manitoba’s business community.

The Foundation primarily serves undergraduate and graduate students, faculty members and student organizations at the I.H. Asper School of Business, while also engaging the wider Manitoba business community. Since its inception, the University of Manitoba Business School Foundation and the Associates have collectively contributed many tens of millions of dollars to the school. Their combined philanthropy, mentorship and program funding strengthen business education in the province and contribute to long‑term economic development by cultivating future business leaders.