Indigenous Empowerment Scholarship Program 

BCI’s Indigenous Empowerment Scholarship Program is available to Indigenous students enrolled in business-related studies at post-secondary institutions across Canada. The program offers hands-on work experience at BCI, creating opportunities to develop professional skills and helping recipients excel further. 


This is a unique opportunity for Indigenous students to deepen financial and investment industry knowledge through the integration of educational support, work experience, and mentorship at one of Canada’s largest institutional investors. 

Financial Assistance

$15,000 per school year (September to August, with disbursements in October and January) for tuition, books, and living expenses.   

Mentorship and Guidance

One-on-one mentorship and career guidance from previous scholarship recipients and BCI professionals. 

Opportunities for Work Experience

Four-month work term in Victoria, BC, as part of BCI’s Campus Program (target timeframe is May-August).

Note: For those coming from outside Victoria, BC, we offer a travel allowance to help with moving costs.

The Students We Hire

We are proud to welcome students from Indigenous communities across Canada. Each year, we seek passionate and dedicated individuals who are pursuing disciplines such as Business Administration, International Business, Management, Finance, Commerce, Accounting, Economics, Statistics, Actuarial Science, Portfolio Management and Mathematics. 


Students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs are encouraged to apply. Proof of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit ancestry in Canada is required.  

image of Kylee Bahia, BCI scholarship reciptient
“I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to discover new professional possibilities at BCI. The scholarship is a very impactful opportunity to open doors and break down barriers for people who wouldn’t otherwise have access to this.”
Kylee Bahia
Bachelor of Business Administration, Vancouver Island University
image of Luigi Borean, BCI scholarship reciptient
“My experience in the Investment Accounting team at BCI has given me the chance to grow both professionally and personally. The scholarship work experience has allowed me to connect with employees across all departments. Living and working in Victoria while gaining industry experience has been an incredible opportunity.”
Luigi Borean
Bachelor of Business Administration, Vancouver Island University
image of Ella Louie, BCI scholarship reciptient
“Working with the corporate accounting team at BCI has been a once in a lifetime opportunity. The scholarship has made it possible for me to explore BCI, accounting, and Victoria all at once. I’ve learned that accounting has infinite layers, hard work pays off, and the people you work with truly make your job.”
Ella Louie
Bachelor of Business Administration, Vancouver Island University

Get Ready to Apply

Check out our scholarship guide for everything you need to know before submitting your application or reach out to us at scholarship@bci.ca.

 
How to apply

Key Dates

September
Scholarship application is open from September 11th until October 2nd
Early October
Interviews are conducted (virtual)
October
Decisions are communicated
First portion of scholarship payment is issued
January
Scholarship recipients provide confirmation of enrollment in full-time school
Second portion of scholarship payment is issued
February
Work term placements are confirmed with scholarship recipients
May-August
Work term at BCI’s headquarters (Victoria)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

Eligible students can apply through Workday during the application window in September of each year. Find more details about how to apply here.

Can I apply more than once? Is there a maximum number of scholarships I can receive?

Eligible students can apply once per year, up to a maximum of three awards total. Eligibility ends when the applicant is no longer a post-secondary student.

What proof of enrollment do I need to provide when applying?

Proof of full-time enrollment in an eligible program at a Canadian post-secondary institution and completion of at least one year of post-secondary credits is required at the time of application. More information here.

Tell me more about the work experience opportunity.

Successful applicants will be offered a summer work experience placement at BCI’s Victoria head office. Our interview panel will determine work placements for successful applicants based on applicants’ skills, career goals, and available opportunities.

Is the program open to mature students or is there an age range for applicants?

Mature students are welcome to apply. There is no age limit for applicants.

What if I already have another degree?

Students completing a second degree or a post-degree diploma are welcome to apply. Eligible programs include certificate, diploma (including post-degree), Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in the study areas of Business Administration, International Business, Management, Finance, Commerce, Accounting, Economics, Statistics, Actuarial Science, Portfolio Management and Mathematics.

Does financial need factor into the award decisions?

Award decisions are not based on financial need. They are based on your academic performance, volunteer/community involvement and/or extracurricular activities, content/relevance of essay, CV/resume and interview.

What if I have a documented disability and reduced course load?

BCI is committed to supporting students with disabilities and providing necessary accommodations to ensure a positive and inclusive interview experience and work environment. If you have a disability and are taking a reduced course load, we welcome your application. Please notify us about your application by contacting scholarship@bci.ca.

I don’t live in Victoria, will I be considered?

Yes, all eligible Canadian post-secondary students will be considered. Like our Campus Program, we welcome students from across Canada to BCI for our work terms and provide a small moving allowance to Victoria. Check out our website for more information about the student work experience at BCI.