These northern youth grants are awarded by ‘gamifying the journey’

A new micro grants program to support northern youth-led projects aims to remove barriers by dismantling the traditional application process.

Instead, youth ages 15 to 30 will “apply” for the Infuse program funding through a gamified learning platform, which will allow them to unlock funding as they complete tasks that build leadership, planning and problem-solving skills.

Infuse is led by Small Economy Works, an organization that supports entrepreneurial development in small communities across the country.

The aim of the new program is to provide financial support and mentorship to youth who have bold ideas for their communities’ futures.

The grants range from $1,000 to $5,000 and can be used for either school-based or peer-led initiatives, ranging from creative arts events to mental health campaigns and food security programs. 

The funding can’t be used to pay wages, for fundraising, or for anything related to partisan politics.

“There is no ‘one right way’ to make an impact and the flexible structure of the grant tiers reflects that. Youth can apply for the amount that matches their scope, confidence and capacity,” explains the Small Economy Works website.

“This structure ensures that both first-time leaders and experienced changemakers feel welcome.”

To begin the funding process, youth fill out an online questionnaire or have a virtual conversation to discover their learning style and capacity. From this, they are given a series of tasks that help them meet their goals.

Tasks include things like budgeting, storytelling or developing partnerships – and by the time the tasks are done, they have put together a plan for their project and the funding has been unlocked.

Along the way, youth are supported with mentorship and have the opportunity to connect virtually with peers in different regions of the country who are also running programs.

“Essentially, we’re flipping the script on traditional youth granting structures by removing the application process and gamifying the learning journey for youth so that we meet them where they’re at,” said Niroja Thiru, the project manager.

Infuse launched earlier this year with a pilot program.

Joely Gauthier, a Kátł’odeeche First Nation participant, received some funding to create gift baskets for families in need.

“I felt so happy seeing how grateful community members were,” Gauthier was quoted as saying.

“The program significantly boosted my confidence and leadership skills, pushing me out of my comfort zone … If I could tell other young people one thing, it would be to not be scared to ask for help. Programs like Infuse show that there are people who want to see youth succeed.”

Other NWT youth have used the funding for things like a birchbark basket-weaving workshop in Yellowknife and a drumming workshop in Fort Providence.

Over the next two years, up to $500,000 in funding will be distributed. The fall 2025 intake closes on October 31.