Publications

The guide provides information on what types of funding partnerships we engage in and how we assess proposals.

Acting on the net-zero carbon imperative For decades, the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that to avoid catastrophic climate-related risks to our natural and physical environment, we must limit the global rise in temperatures to no more than 1.5°C above the pre-industrial era. In its most recent report in 2023, […]

  In this webinar, our program staff explained our new approach to the Communities focus area, including how we got here, as well as our updated priorities and funding strategies. The webinar also shared resources for applicants and answered participant questions. Watch the video above, or download the presentation slides, including the summary of the […]

The guide provides information on what types of funding partnerships we engage in and how we assess proposals.

2025 was a milestone year for the McConnell Foundation, as it marked the midway point to our 100% impact target. Having reached this milestone, we are encouraged by our progress and grateful for the support of our many partners. We are also inspired by foundations that have made similar commitments, especially those demonstrating strong financial performance alongside measurable, real-world impacts. As we enter the second half of our journey to 100% impact, we do so with a clearer strategy, a stronger portfolio and a deeper commitment to learning alongside others. By sharing evidence, developing new investment pathways and applying our full asset base in service of our mission, we hope to contribute not only to a more resilient portfolio, but to a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable economy.

Acting on the net-zero carbon imperative For decades, the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that to avoid catastrophic climate-related risks to our natural and physical environment, we must limit the global rise in temperatures to no more than 1.5°C above the pre-industrial era. In its most recent report in 2023, […]

The purpose of the Statement of Investment Policies and Procedures (SIP&P) is to outline the principles governing the investment policy of the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation and to address key matters such as investment beliefs and the asset mix.

Considering the importance of the work being done by non-qualified donees (NQDs), a group of funders — including ​Fondation Lucie et André Chagnon, Inspirit, Laidlaw Foundation and the McConnell Foundation — ​have come together to create a toolkit to help and encourage more funders to support NQDs. As a collective, our experience lies primarily in […]

In 2023 the crises of our time seemed to multiply. Climate change-fueled disasters like wildfires smothered North America in smoke, the cost of housing reached historic highs, and conflicts abroad created rising tensions and fear of violence in communities closer to home. Their implications disproportionately affect certain groups, compounding the effects of division and polarization. […]

The McConnell Foundation greatly values our relationships with our partners. We aim to work in a spirit of mutual accountability. In 2023, the Center for Effecitve Philanthropy conducted a second perception survey - four years after the first one - with current partners.

This report provides a broad overview of the Indigenous housing ecosystem across Canada, with a focus on the civil society organizations that are making significant contributions—particularly in rural and remote regions, as well as certain demographic areas of concern for housing accessibility.

We’re pleased to share a new research summary from Dominique Collin, McConnell’s Indigenous Housing Fellow. His paper explores the current landscape of Indigenous housing in Canada and outlines practical recommendations to support the emergence of a strong, Indigenous-led housing ecosystem. 

The Reconciliation focus area webinar shared the latest updated strategies. Also, find the webinar PowerPoint slides and Q&A summary.