The Northern Initiatives Fund

The Northern Initiatives Fund (NIF) is created as a component of the Northern Dimension of Canada’s Foreign Policy. The Northern Dimension of Canada's Foreign Policy (NDFP) sets out a vision for Canada in the circumpolar world, based on cooperation with Northerners and circumpolar neighbours. The NIF has committed $25 000 a year to its St.-Petersburg mission to implement the NDFP activities until 2004/2005.

The purpose of the Northern Initiatives Fund is among other things, to encourage links between Canadian organizations and their counterparts in other circumpolar countries and build Russian northern and aboriginal capacity. Project proposals can be submitted until 2005.

Public affairs activities such as academic exchanges and conferences, cultural and outreach events, publications or visits between Canada and Northern Russia are eligible for funding. Projects targeting children and youth, indigenous peoples and Internet and other new technologies development are highly encouraged. Purchase of equipment would not normally be considered.

Your proposal should be submitted to the Canadian Consulate General in St.-Petersburg and include the following information:

• Name of the project
• Institution implementing the project
• Coordinates of the project manager
• Description of the project
• Partners-local and international
• Expected results
• Detailed budget

Project examination will be conducted by the Canadian Consulate General and the Aboriginal and Circumpolar Affairs division of the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Please send or bring your proposals to the following address:

Canadian Consulate General
32B, Malodetskoselsky pr.
St.-Petersburg, Russia
190013
Tel. (812) 325-8448
Fax: (812) 325-8393

For additional information, please contact:
Northern Affairs Assistant
(812) 325-8448

For more information on the Northern Dimension of Canada’s Foreign policy, please visit: www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/circumpolar/