NVIT to Receive a Significant Investment to Amplify Impact on Indigenous Youth

Press Release

September 11, 2025

Merritt, B.C. – We are proud to announce that NVIT is set to receive $10 million in funding from the Mastercard Foundation as part of a landmark $235 million funding commitment to 30 post-secondary institutions and Indigenous-led organizations across Canada. This investment recognizes NVIT’s leadership in advancing education for Indigenous youth and its deep commitment to reconciliation, cultural revitalization, and self-determination.

This principle has guided NVIT since its creation and reflects the vision of the Late Grand Chief F. Gordon Antoine, who stated that the purpose of NVIT is to “improve the quality of life for Indigenous people.” This latest investment ensures that NVIT can continue to uphold that vision by removing barriers to education and creating culturally grounded pathways to success for generations to come.

The Mastercard Foundation’s announcement coincides with the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and its Calls to Action, which identified education as a critical path toward reconciliation. These investments will enable Indigenous-led and partner institutions to scale successful programs, share innovative approaches, and create sustainable solutions that open pathways to meaningful livelihoods for Indigenous youth.

NVIT plans to allocate a portion of the investment towards immediate support for Indigenous youth, including new and expanded programming, upgraded facilities, and financial awards. The remaining funds will be strategically reinvested in the short term to ensure long-lasting impact on Indigenous communities and learners for generations to come.

“Nicola Valley Institute of Technology is creating pathways to success by centring Indigenous knowledge, integrating connection to culture and community, and a profound commitment to excellence. We made a commitment to young Indigenous people that we would walk alongside them to transform post-secondary education in ways that support them to live a good life. This exemplary organization is contributing to that change and to a stronger country for us all,” said Jennifer Brennan, Senior Director, Canada Programs at the Mastercard Foundation.

Dr. John Chenoweth, President and CEO of NVIT, emphasized the transformative nature of the funding: “This $10 million investment is a powerful affirmation of NVIT’s work to empower Indigenous learners. By directing immediate resources to programs, facilities, and financial awards, while also reinvesting for long-term sustainability, we are creating a future where Indigenous youth have every opportunity to succeed, thrive, and lead. This is about building pathways that reflect our values, strengthen our communities, and honour our responsibility as B.C.’s Indigenous public post-secondary institution.”

The Mastercard Foundation EleV Program, launched in 2017, has already supported more than 65,000 Indigenous youth in Canada through education, entrepreneurship, and leadership development. With this new funding commitment, the Foundation will accelerate its goal of supporting 100,000 Indigenous youth to complete their education and transition to meaningful work aligned with their traditions, values, and aspirations.

Reeta Roy, President and CEO of the Mastercard Foundation, underscored the importance of this investment nationally: “We are proud to support the outstanding work of Indigenous institutions and major universities that are transforming the lives of young Indigenous people. This game-changing work is rooted in reconciliation—from improved healthcare services in communities to innovative businesses that are providing clean energy, cultural programs that are revitalizing Indigenous languages, and young people who are graduating as health, technology, and land stewardship leaders.”

This historic funding ensures that NVIT and its peers can expand access to education, integrate Indigenous knowledges, and strengthen self-determination, ultimately contributing to a stronger and more inclusive Canada.

Media Contact:

President’s Office
Phone: 1-877-682-3300
Email: presidentsoffice@nvit.ca

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