Global Affairs Canada Funds ICN’s LIFT Program with $38.5 Million 

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Global Affairs Canada Funds ICN’s LIFT Program with $38.5 Million 

Halifax, Nova Scotia – February 5, 2025 –  The Inter-Council Network of Provincial and Regional Councils for International Cooperation (ICN) welcomes the Global Affairs Canada announcement that will provide $38.5 million in funding to implement the LIFT program, which will support more than 150 small and medium-sized Canadian Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) from across Canada. This funding will enable these organizations to continue and expand their vital global development work, ensuring long-term sustainability and a greater impact. The LIFT program is being hosted by the Manitoba Council for International Cooperation (MCIC) on behalf of the ICN.

The Honorable Minister Ahmed Hussen made the funding announcement yesterday during International Development Week (IDW), a week dedicated to raising awareness of global development issues and recognizing the contributions of Canadians in creating positive change around the world. This year’s theme, "Building a better world together," emphasizes Canada’s ongoing global efforts to eradicate poverty worldwide and make our planet more peaceful, inclusive and prosperous. The LIFT program exemplifies how small and medium-sized Canadian NGOs, supported through this funding, create meaningful and locally owned solutions that have a lasting impact.

As the host of the LIFT program, MCIC is particularly excited about how this funding will directly benefit sector members from coast to coast to coast. "This investment will provide small and medium-sized organizations (SMOs) with the resources needed to implement their impactful work in the Global South," said Janice Hamilton, Executive Director of MCIC. "Through the LIFT program, SMOs will be able to strengthen their capacity, deepen partnerships, and continue tackling some of the most pressing global challenges, from climate change to gender equality. We're grateful to the Government of Canada for this important support."

In celebration of International Development Week, ICN member Councils across Canada are hosting numerous events to engage the public, raise awareness of global development issues, and recognize the incredible work of the sector. These events provide opportunities for learning, discussion, and connection among organizations and individuals passionate about global change.

Through the LIFT program and continued support from Global Affairs Canada, the ICN will help the sector scale their work and deepen their impact. The ICN is excited to continue fostering collaboration, capacity-building, and knowledge-sharing across the network to create sustainable, transformative change locally and globally.