Today, the F
oundation for Black Communities (FFBC) and the Definity Foundation are proud to announce a $3.5M partnership to address the chronic underfunding of Black-led and Black-serving organizations across Canada. This investment will support initiatives focused on health and wellbeing, socio-economic inclusion, and climate justice for Black communities, while advancing efforts to combat anti-Black racism and promoting lasting equitable change.
Five years ago, the Unfunded Report exposed a stark reality—philanthropic dollars were not reaching Black communities in Canada. Since then, while progress has been made, systemic funding inequities persist. In response, FFBC is Canada’s first-ever Black-led, Black-serving philanthropic foundation. Its mission is to ensure that organizations have the resources, autonomy and agency to define and drive their own futures.
Definity Foundation demonstrates its commitment to equity and justice, not just in words but in action. By strengthening an ecosystem where Black leadership is centered, and decisions about funding are made by those most affected by systemic inequities, this partnership is investing in solutions that transfer decision-making power to Black-led organizations and communities.
This 5-year partnership represents a shift in how philanthropy can work – not as a gatekeeper but as a facilitator of self-determination. We are working together to strengthen a funding ecosystem that supports underrepresented and underfunded communities through the redistribution of power, wealth and opportunity leading to meaningful change for all communities.
“We are grateful to Definity Foundation for their leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting Black communities. Their approach to philanthropy—one that acknowledges the wisdom and solutions within communities and actively transfers power to those most affected—is truly commendable. By ensuring that intended beneficiaries have a say in where resources go, the foundation is setting a powerful example of equity in action. We are excited to partner with them on this journey toward lasting change.” – Liban Abokor, Co-Chair, Foundation for Black Communities
“ The Unfunded Report made clear the extent of philanthropic neglect, we recognize that the real measure of progress is not just in dollars committed but in power shifted. By stepping back and allowing space for Black communities to decide and define their own success, we’re empowering the dismantling of the systemic barriers that prevent people from thriving. Community knowledge and lived experiences must lead the way, and we are proud to walk alongside FFBC in this journey to justice.” – Arti Freeman, President and CEO, Definity Foundation
About Foundation for Black Communities
The Foundation for Black Communities is Canada’s first ever philanthropic foundation established to support Black-led, mandated and serving charitable and nonprofit organizations across Canada. FFBC works to eliminate systemic barriers and advance the socio-economic outcomes of Black communities through sustainable funding sources and strategic partnerships.
About Definity Foundation
The Definity Foundation supports communities across Canada in pursuing climate, health, social and economic justice. We proactively seek partnerships built on relationship and collaborate with intermediaries and collectives to advance community-led solutions that address systemic barriers with a particular focus on barriers faced by Black, Indigenous and other racialized communities. Through partnerships, providing resources, and support for new approaches to complex problems, we’re contributing to a healthier, more equitable and just society.