Volunteer firefighters fill countless roles in rural communities, so why are their numbers shrinking?
Why It Matters
More than 70 per cent of Canadian firefighters are classified as volunteers, but thousands have hung up their turnout gear in recent years. New recruitment strategies and better funding could help turn the tide.
Blended finance: A Canadian way to raise funds, but happening mainly in Quebec
Why It Matters
Thrive Impact Fund is mapping an optimal process for blending different financing (debt, equity, grants) and investors (public, private, philanthropic) around social impact projects. This collaboration and the innovative financial instruments created could significantly change how projects gather funding.
How $335 million and a Wall Street-inspired funding model have raised hopes for the conservation of the Great Bear Sea
Why It Matters
Much environmental conservation focuses on preserving land piece by piece. A new model focuses on increasing the long-term resilience of an entire region by funding it up-front.
Non-profits brace for change as speculation around Trudeau’s leadership intensifies
Why It Matters
Funding for non-profits and charities is always precarious. A shift in federal leadership or government may mean a shift in priorities, which could disrupt programs and services across the country.
Q&A: Oversight and governance of AI use at borders, humanitarian aid zones are weak, says expert
Why It Matters
Data collection practices often rely on active and informed consent – but how can people in precarious situations genuinely understand what is happening with their biometric information, how it will be stored, and who it will be shared with?