Encore Bursary

Encore “Make Your Moment” Bursary

The Encore “Make Your Moment” Bursary Program supports Indigenous students across British Columbia who are pursuing education in Hospitality, Event Planning, Film Production, Broadcasting, or Audio Engineering.

The bursary provides up to $1,200 per funding cycle to an eligible Indigenous student 18-24 years old who demonstrates significant financial need. Funding may be used to support tuition, books, supplies, and other essential education‑related expenses. Students may apply for each funding round.

This program is funded by Encore Canada and administered by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC).

Who is Eligible?

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Indigenous ancestry (Status, Non‑status, Métis, Inuit)
• Permanent resident of British Columbia
• Registered at a recognized Canadian post‑secondary institution (Priority given to students attending BC institutions)
• Between 18 and 24 years old (inclusive)
• Enrolled in one of the eligible programs of study: Hospitality, Event Planning, Film Production, Broadcasting, Audio Engineering
• Able to demonstrate significant financial need
• Not applying to fund the repeat of a course or academic year

How do I Apply?

Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the deadline date to education@bcaafc.com. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. We aim to notify all successful and unsuccessful applicants within 30 days of an application deadline.

A complete application includes:

1. Completed & Signed Application Form – All sections filled out accurately; Signed declaration
2. Application Checklist – Completed and signed.
3. Budget (Section E) – A detailed breakdown of expenses and income for the semester.
4. Indigenous Ancestry Documentation – Status card (front and back), if applicable; For non‑status applicants a birth certificate and a parent(s) status card or other valid documentation of Indigenous ancestry.
5. Proof of Registration – Official documentation from your institution for the semester you are requesting funding for.
6. Tuition, Books & Fees Documentation – Cost breakdown from your institution.
7. Letter of Recommendation – From a recognized Indigenous organization, speaking to your character, community involvement, or suitability for the bursary.
8. Personal Letter – A self‑written letter describing: your background, education and employment history, career goals, why you are pursuing your chosen field, and why you are applying for the Encore Bursary.
9. Graduate Students (if applicable) – A letter from your supervisor confirming satisfactory progress (if transcripts are unavailable).

Additional documentation may be requested at the discretion of BCAAFC.

How is Funding Allocated? 

Completed applications from eligible students will be assessed based on financial need, giving priority to those who do not receive other financial support for their education. Applications are reviewed by the Encore Canada bursary adjudication committee, which assesses each submission based on verified eligibility, completeness, and demonstrated financial need, according to the Encore Make Your Moment Bursary policy criteria. The committee may request additional information if needed to ensure all details are accurate and align with program requirements.

Please note: Funding is limited to one student per cycle. Not all applicants are awarded a bursary, and we cannot guarantee consecutive or multiple bursaries per student.