Creating a New Model: A Case Study of the Definity Insurance Foundation

Aug 8, 2025 | Learning, News, Report

Explore the story behind the creation and growth of the Definity Foundation in our new case study — a reflection on purpose, values, and bold beginnings.

Deep thanks to Hilary Pearson for her thoughtful work in bringing together the voices, insights, and values of those who shaped this journey. Her care in capturing the learnings that continue to guide the foundation’s path is deeply appreciated.

Creating a New Model: A Case Study of the Definity Insurance Foundation

The Definity Insurance Foundation is a unique case of a new public foundation in Canada funded by the proceeds of a Canadian business going public, but not controlled by the business. This case study describes the origins and early stages of the Definity Insurance Foundation as a significant independent funder in the Canadian philanthropic landscape.… continue to read case study

Recent News
Recruiting a Program Director, Redistributive Infrastructure

Definity Foundation is seeking a Program Director for a stream of work called Redistributive Infrastructure. This role will seek to strengthen community-rooted economic and financial infrastructure – the kind of infrastructure through which capital can be mobilized,...

read more
Blog: Hope and the courage to imagine

By Arti Freeman In 1969, five years into a life sentence, Nelson Mandela wrote a letter from prison to his daughters. He couldn't tell them when he would come home. Apartheid was entrenched and he had been sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison. And yet he...

read more