Scholarship
PEOPLE
Indigenous Empowerment Scholarship Program
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 financial assistance for tuition, books, and living expenses that will be disbursed in two equal payments, one prior to the work term and one directly after.
Mentorship and Guidance
One-on-one mentorship and career guidance from previous scholarship recipients and/or BCI professionals.
Work Experience
Four-month or eight-month work term in Victoria, BC, as part of BCI’s Campus Program (January or May start date).
The Students We Hire
We are proud to welcome students from Indigenous communities across Canada.
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.
My experience with the ESG team expanded my knowledge across both public and private asset classes and gave me exposure to areas of finance you simply can’t get in many other places. This opportunity has accelerated my career in ways I couldn’t have imagined a year ago.
Michael Seguin
Bachelor of Commerce,
University of Alberta
Being part of the Indigenous Empowerment Scholarship Program at BCI has been one of the most affirming experiences of my life. I’m leaving with a clear sense of the career I want to build, and the confidence that I belong in rooms I once assumed weren’t meant for me.
Emory Dettwiler
Bachelor of Business Administration, Vancouver Island University
My term on the Strategic Asset Allocation team at BCI has been an incredible experience in an environment that fostered so much growth and learning. Beyond that, I was able to join a community of such talented and genuine people. I am so glad I was able to be a part of this amazing opportunity.
Jackson Campo
Bachelor of Commerce,
University of British Columbia
Where You Could Work
Gain hands-on experience in investment and investment-adjacent roles.
Finance
Leads investment and corporate accounting, valuations, financial reporting, budgeting, and tax. The team works s to deliver timely, accurate financial information and analysis.
Investment Operations
Manages cash, derivatives, foreign exchange, trade settlement, and custodian oversight. Partners with BCI’s investment teams to turn strategy into operational reality.
Infrastructure & Renewable Resources
Invests globally in infrastructure assets that deliver stable, long-term returns. The $36.5 billion portfolio spans energy, transport, utilities, data infrastructure, timberland, and agriculture.
Investment Strategy & Risk
Partners with clients and asset classes to set, execute and monitor the long-term investment strategies that help BCI’s clients achieve their goals.
Private Equity
Manages a diverse global portfolio of $36.1 billion in fund, direct, and co-investments. Drives portfolio growth through direct investment, strong partnerships, and active value creation.
Capital Markets & Credit Investments
Invests $175.9 billion globally across fixed income, public equities, credit and absolute return strategies. Leader in responsible investing, integrating ESG factors across all strategies.
Scholarship Program Key Dates
Applications open September 17, 2026
january work term
- September
Scholarship applications are accepted. - Early October
Interviews are conducted (virtual). - Late October
Decisions are communicated and work term placements confirmed. - November
First portion of scholarship payment is issued. - January – April
Work term at BCI’s headquarters (Victoria). - May
Second portion of scholarship payment is issued.
Scholarship Program Key Dates
Applications open September 17, 2026
may work term
- January (or September)
Scholarship applications are accepted. - Early February (or October)
Interviews are conducted (virtual). - Late February (or October)
Decisions are communicated and work term placements confirmed. - March
First portion of scholarship payment is issued. - May – August
Work term at BCI’s headquarters (Victoria) - September
Second portion of scholarship payment is issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Eligible students can apply through Workday during the application window in September and January 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 two awards total. Eligibility ends when the applicant is no longer a post-secondary student.
What proof of enrolment 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 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.
Do I have to complete the work term as part of the Indigenous Empowerment Scholarship Program?
Yes. The work term component is the focus of the program and therefore must be completed.