BioTalent Canada’s I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™ Breaks Workforce Barriers, Calls Equity-Deserving Students to Innovation Leadership

OTTAWA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Equity-deserving students pursuing careers in Canada’s biosciences sector will get a financial boost with the I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™, offering three prestigious $10,000 awards to support their education and future success. This initiative aims to empower students from equity-deserving backgrounds to pursue post-secondary studies in biosciences across Canada.

Three I.D.E.A.L. Scholarships will be awarded to outstanding students who identify as either Indigenous, a person with a disability or, new to this year’s scholarship, individuals who identify as a newcomer to Canada. These individuals will be awarded the scholarship based on their demonstration in championing IDEAL (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Leadership) in their schools and communities.

By expanding the scholarship program to include newcomers to Canada, BioTalent Canada is deepening its commitment to a more inclusive and dynamic bio-economy. The organization remains steadfast in its goal to reduce bio-economy career barriers for equity-deserving groups and to empower students who exemplify IDEA leadership.

"Especially right now, investing in diverse talent is the future of Canada’s bio-economy," said Rob Henderson, President and CEO of BioTalent Canada. "Students from equity-deserving backgrounds deserve our support, and we are fostering the next generation of innovators who will bring fresh perspectives and drive meaningful change in the industry."

Applicants are evaluated based on their leadership and contributions to advancing IDEA values in their schools and communities including:

• Leading IDEA-focused initiatives in school clubs, teams, or community groups.
• Demonstrating leadership in fostering inclusivity and a sense of belonging.
• Actively engaging in programs or actions aligned with IDEA principles.

To view the full list of criteria, visit biotalent.ca/idealscholarship.

Beyond benefiting students, the I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship™ also supports employers in the biosciences sector by fostering a more inclusive and dynamic talent pipeline. By empowering students from equity-deserving backgrounds, this initiative helps ensure that the bio-economy’s workforce reflects the diverse perspectives and experiences needed to drive innovation and global competitiveness.

By investing in the next generation of biosciences professionals, employers contribute to a culture of inclusion and long-term industry growth. Companies that prioritize diversity are better positioned to attract top talent, improve employee retention, and enhance their overall workplace culture.

To learn more about eligibility and apply, visit biotalent.ca/IDEALScholarship or contact [e-mail].

Rob Henderson is available for comment.

About BioTalent Canada
BioTalent Canada supports the people behind life-changing science. Trusted as the go-to source for labour market intelligence, BioTalent Canada guides bio-economy stakeholders with evidence-based data and industry-driven standards. BioTalent Canada, as a workforce development council, is focused on igniting the industry’s brainpower, bridging the gap between job-ready talent and employers, and ensuring the long-term agility, resiliency, and sustainability of one of Canada’s most vital sectors.

BioTalent Canada has received varied distinctions following thorough and independent analyses of the organization. By practicing the same industry standards it recommends to partners, the organization has been honored with the following titles:

• The Best Leader in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the 2024 Best Ottawa Business Awards
• 2024 Collaboration Catalyst by Magnet Network Great Place to Work^® for 2024 and Best Workplaces in Healthcare for 2023 by Great Place to Work Canada^®
• Best Workplace by HRD Canada for 2024
• 5-Star Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Employer by Canadian HR Reporter for 2024

For more information, please visit biotalent.ca.

About I.D.E.A.L Scholarship:
The I.D.E.A.L. Scholarship aims to promote inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility leadership (IDEAL) within the realm of biosciences. Designed to inspire and support equity-deserving groups in embarking on their bioscience journeys, this program not only seeks to diversify Canada’s bio-economy but also to amplify enrollment in biosciences programs nationwide. Through targeted support and a commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation, the I.D.E.A.L Scholarship promises to empower and uplift individuals from diverse backgrounds, driving forward the future of biotechnology in Canada.