The "Raising Stars Bursary"

The “Raising Stars Bursary” by Softlanding is an innovative program created to address a critical issue within Canada’s technology sector. While diversity plays a crucial role in the technology industry, Indigenous and minority communities have often encountered systemic obstacles that limit their access to education and career prospects in this field. This bursary aims to rectify this imbalance by offering financial assistance to ambitious Canadian and permanent resident students who identify as Indigenous, belong to racial or ethnic minority groups, identify as women, fall within the 2SLGBTQQIA+ spectrum, or are members of other minority communities. Additionally, it supports those who have visible or non-visible disabilities.

2024 Diversity Bursary

Financial aid helps bridge the gap between underrepresented communities and technology industries. The Raising Stars Bursary will act as a catalyst for change, empowering talented individuals who might otherwise be excluded from the sector. It is not just about granting financial assistance; it is about investing in the potential of future leaders, innovators, and contributors to an ever-evolving field. Supporting Indigenous and minority students not only diversifies and creates a more inclusive workforce it also enriches the industry with fresh perspectives, ideas, and talents that will drive innovation.

By empowering recipients to thrive academically, Softlanding is making an investment in tomorrow’s technology innovators, developing role models and advocates, and inspiring future generations.

Award

Up to three (3) student applicants will receive a $1,000.00 bursary. Only one bursary will be awarded per applicant. All applicants will be notified of their review outcome, and bursary recipients will have their funds disbursed directly to their educational institution for reimbursement, or application towards their tuition or fees, depending on the institution policy, by July 1st each year.

Who May Apply?

Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria in order to qualify for a bursary award. 

  • Minority Status: Applicants should self-identify as belonging to underrepresented minority groups in tech, such as Indigenous, Black, Latinx, 2SLGBTQQIA, women, individuals with disabilities, or other minority communities in the sector.
  • Academic Pursuit: Applicants should be enrolled in a tech-related undergraduate or skilled trade program, including fields like computer science, software engineering, data science, and AI.
  • Active Enrollment: Applicants must be accepted or enrolled in a full-time Canadian post-secondary institution, such as a college, university, or approved apprenticeship program, for the upcoming academic year.
  • Good Standing: Applicants must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 (or equivalent) and meet academic enrollment requirements without being on or at risk of academic probation.
  • Canadian Citizen/Permanent Resident: Applicants must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial need.

How to Apply?

All applications must be submitted through the Softlanding company website posted here during the submission window or by email to studentawards@softlanding.ca.

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