Every year, McMaster University supports a number of key strategic programs and projects. In the 2023-24 financial year, over $6.2 million was committed to enhance research, education, the Indigenous Student experience, leadership, governance, and other strategic priorities outlined in the Indigenous Strategic Directions.
Below is a summary of the financial support provided for Indigenous initiatives in the 2023-24 financial year, along with budgeted funding for 2024-25.
Information Box Group
Indigenous Education Council (IEC) IEC
The McMaster Indigenous Education Council (IEC) promotes and advocates for Indigenous education at McMaster university. It champions the needs of Indigenous students, staff, and faculty, and advises the university on Indigenous matters. The IEC aims to enhance Indigenous presence and perspectives within the university community
Learn more about the Indigenous Education Council (IEC).
Indigenous Studies Department (ISD) ISD
The Indigenous Studies Department offers undergraduate and graduate programs focused on Indigenous knowledge, culture, and history. It emphasizes the intellectual traditions of Indigenous peoples. The department incorporates a unique teaching structure of Indigenous knowledge that involves many Indigenous peoples and Elders.
Learn more about the Indigenous Studies Department (ISD).
STEER/R Hires - Indigenous Professors STEER/R
McMaster’s Strategic Excellence and Equity in Recruitment and Retention (STEER/R) Program, launched in 2020, funds initiatives to support equity-deserving groups. It focuses on student access, experience, and success, as well as faculty and staff hiring, engagement, and career progression. STEER/R aims to advance inclusive excellence within the university community.
The program included six Indigenous faculty members in 2024 and ten in 2025 (fiscal year).
Learn more about the STEER/R Program.
Indigenous Research Hub Renovations Research Hub
A project to renovate the current Faculty of Social Sciences Dean’s Office to create the Indigenous Research Hub at McMaster university. This project aims to create a dedicated space for Indigenous research, support Indigenous Student Services, and integrate the Indigenous Studies Department. The renovations will foster collaboration and advance Indigenous scholarship.
Walls to Bridges (W2B) National Hub W2B
Walls to Bridges (W2B) is an innovative educational program that brings together incarcerated (“Inside”) and non-incarcerated (“Outside”) students to study post-secondary courses in jails and prisons across Canada. The National Hub for the program is based out of the McMaster Indigenous Research Institute (MIRI) at McMaster university, in partnership with Grand Valley Institution for Women in Kitchener.
Learn more about the Walls to Bridges (W2B) educational program.
McMaster Prison Education Program Prison Education
The McMaster Prison Education Program, part of the Indigenous Studies Department, offers university courses within federal correctional facilities. Through the Walls to Bridges initiative, incarcerated and non-incarcerated students learn together, earning university credits. This program aims to increase access to post-secondary education for incarcerated Indigenous peoples.
Learn more about the Prison Education Program.
Repatriation/Rematriation of Ancestral remains Repatriation/Rematriation
The McMaster Repatriation/Rematriation of Ancestral Remains project plans the return of ancestral remains currently held at the university. This initiative aims to honor Indigenous traditions, support community healing, and restore cultural heritage. It reflects McMaster’s commitment to reconciliation and respect for Indigenous peoples’ rights and histories.
Indigenous Scholarships and Bursaries Indigenous Scholar Award
McMaster university offers various scholarships and bursaries specifically for Indigenous students. These financial aids support Indigenous students in their academic pursuits. Additionally, Indigenous students can access federal and provincial student loan programs, as well as McMaster’s Work Program.
Learn more about Indigenous Scholarships and Bursaries.
BIPOC Curatorial Mentorship Program Mentorship Program
McMaster’s BIPOC Curatorial Mentorship Program, launched in 2020, pairs emerging BIPOC arts professionals with senior curators. The program focuses on diverse curatorial practices, exhibition development, and critical discourse. It aims to build capacity for transformation in the cultural sector and support BIPOC leadership in the arts.
As of 2024, three Indigenous and three Black cultural workers have received mentorship.
Learn more about the BIPOC Curatorial Mentorship Program.
Indigenous Studies Scholarships IS Scholarships
McMaster’s Indigenous Studies Scholarships initiative ensures sustainable support for Indigenous research and education. It focuses on maintaining consistent funding, resources, and community engagement. This initiative aims to uphold the university’s commitment to Indigenous scholarship, fostering a stable environment for academic and cultural growth.
Indigenous Student Services Indigenous Student Services
McMaster Indigenous Student Services provides in-person and online support and resources for Indigenous students, including academic advising, cultural programming, and wellness initiatives. The office offers a welcoming space for studying, meetings, and community events. All services aim to enhance the academic experience of Indigenous students.
Learn more about Indigenous Student Services.
McMaster Indigenous Research Institute (MIRI) MIRI
The McMaster Indigenous Research Institute (MIRI) fosters Indigenous research excellence. It supports interdisciplinary projects, enhances research infrastructure, and builds community partnerships. MIRI promotes Indigenous knowledge and methodologies, creating a space for dialogue between Western and Indigenous research approaches. It aims to advance Indigenous scholarship and self-determination.
Learn more about the McMaster Indigenous Research Institute (MIRI).
Indigenous Priority Fund Indigenous Priority Fund
The McMaster Indigenous Priority Fund, established in 2022, supports initiatives in research, education, student experience, and leadership. It aligns with the Indigenous Strategic Directions, aiming to enhance Indigenous presence and success at the university. The fund addresses key priorities identified by the Indigenous community.
Learn more about the Indigenous Priority Fund.
Indigenous Health Learning Lodge | Indigenous Health Initiative IHLL
The Indigenous Health Learning Lodge at McMaster university is a hub for training and curriculum development. It provides a culturally safe space with access to Traditional Knowledge Helpers and a student lounge. The Lodge supports Indigenous health sciences students and promotes understanding of colonization and reconciliation.
Learn more about the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge.