Applications for the 2026-2027 scholarship are NOW OPEN!

Application submissions received February 16 – July 17 will be considered. Click here for the application!

Award presented August 2026 

The Western Canada Chapter of the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER-WC) is offering a scholarship to an Indigenous student studying ecological restoration for the 2026-2027 academic year! 

With support from SER’s Partnership Fund, this scholarship is intended to reduce the financial barriers to achieving success for restoration leaders, who are enrolled in education or training programs that support their goal of a career in the field of ecological restoration. Eligible programs include, but are not limited to, ecological restoration, environmental science, food sovereignty, and cultural continuity (e.g., Indigenous languages).

Eligibility:

  1. Reside in Western Canada*
  2. Be enrolled full-time in an education or training program at a recognized Western Canada college, university, or technical institute
  3. A self-identifying Indigenous person (including, but not limited to First Nations, Métis, Inuit)
  4. Be an active community leader and advocate
  5. Passionate and interested in ecological restoration
  6. A team player

*Western Canada for the purposes of SER-WC includes: BC, AB, SK, MB, YK and NWT

Award Details

  • $2000 CAD financial award
  • Complimentary membership to SER & SER-WC for one year
  • Attendance (virtual or in person) and presentation at SER-WC’s AGM
  • One article or media submission published in the SER-WC Newsletter
  • One article or media submission published in the Restoration Showcase
  • Participation in a guided mentorship program

How to Apply

  • Applications must be received by the deadline of 5 p.m. PDT on Saturday, July 17, 2026
    • The application package consists of a form and a submission piece of the applicant’s choice. Suggested submission piece formats include: written text, essay, media, video, music, a combination of the above, or other.
  • If you’re ready to apply, please download and fill out this form: [link to new form] You can submit the form and your submission piece to restorewc@gmail.com. Please add “ISS Application” in the subject line of your email submission. 
  • A team of Board members reviews each application holistically on the basis of merit and demonstrated need and votes among received applications.

Past Recipients: 

Shayla Chalifoux, St’át’imc Nation, Sekw’el’was community 2025

Taylor Galvin, Brokenhead Ojibway Nation 2023

Brendan Eshom, Gitga’a First Nation 2021

 

If you have any questions, please email restorewc@gmail.com.