Learn how we support change and the values and principles that underpin our work.
About
About the McConnell Foundation
We are a private Canadian foundation that contributes to diverse and innovative approaches to address community resilience, reconciliation, and climate change. We do so through funding and investment partnerships, and by collaborating with the public, private and non-profit sectors.
Foundation highlights
+ $30M in funding annually
We aim to allocate 5% of our endowment towards our charitable activities annually. In 2025, we disbursed $34.1 million or 5.08% of our assets.
3 focus areas
We fund organizations working to address community resilience, reconciliation, and climate change. We also support sector building projects for the sector.
100% impact investing
We aim to deploy all of our assets towards advancing our mission. By 2028, we hope to allocate 100% of our endowment towards investing for impact.
Over 200 active partners
In 2025 we were proud to partner with over 200 incredible organizations leading positive change across Canada.
Find out more about the Foundation’s governance structure and Board Committees.
Get to know our compassionate and collaborative team.
History
Founded 1937 by J.W. McConnell, the McConnell Foundation is one of the earliest family foundations established in Canada. For more than 85 years, our focus has expanded from funding Montreal-based institutions to supporting organizations nation-wide using diverse approaches to addressing some of today’s most pressing challenges. Learn more in our history section.
In a time of widening divides, we see bridge building as a responsibility. We aim to convene with purpose and hold ourselves to high standards of ethical practice and positive impact. We appreciate our partners and are grateful to walk alongside them! Learn more in our 2025 Year in Review.