Ontario Tech University Receives $500,000 from Scotiabank for Black Youth Visionary Program

Ontario Tech University in Oshawa has started the Black Youth Visionary Program, which is funded by a $500,000 investment from Scotiabank through its ScotiaRISE initiative. According to the university, the program began in January 2025 and is intended to support and mentor Black university students in Canada.

The introduction of the program provides students with new opportunities for financial support, career development, and mentorship. The university states that enrolment in the program has grown since its launch, reflecting participation from students interested in these areas.

Ontario Tech reports that participants in the Black Youth Visionary Program have access to student awards, financial aid, experiential learning, career development, mentorship, networking, leadership opportunities, and support services.

Breanne McAlpin, a fourth-year Life Sciences student in Ontario Tech's Faculty of Science, described the program as, “a bridge to opportunity and community for Black students. It creates an avenue for mentorship, fostering relationships among peers and alumni who can guide us in excelling academically, professionally and personally.”

Scotiabank states that its funding forms part of the ScotiaRISE community initiative, which focuses on financial aid, mentorship, and career development for post-secondary students. Jason Charlebois, Regional Senior Vice-President at Scotiabank, said that the partnership with Ontario Tech is aimed at ensuring students have access to opportunities that support their potential.