What is the KPU Global SDGs Fund?
The KPU Global SDGs Fund offers KPU instructors the opportunity to receive up to C$5,000 in funding to participate in international experiences that enrich KPU's global presence. Engaging in international contexts enables faculty members to share and acquire best practices, promote student mobility, forge and reinforce partnerships with international institutions, and spearhead substantial international projects that align with higher education's globalization objectives. This initiative aligns with the Academic Plan and Vision 2026, contributing significantly to KPU's strategic goals. This comprehensive approach aims to empower faculty members to embark on impactful international experiences and bolster KPU's global outreach.
If you are interested in learning more about SDGs, the KPU Library has developed an excellent webpage explaining SDGs in detail.
This funding opportunity is made possible through the generous support of the KPU.
Applicants must be REGULAR (Full-time or Part-time) or NON-REGULAR TYPE 2 (Full-time or Part-time) KPU faculty employees. Please refer to regular KPU faculty employee definitions as outlined in the faculty collective agreement. See Article 1, Section 1.05 (Definitions).
Applicants are eligible for funding of up to C$5,000 to support their projects.
If two or more faculty members collaborate on a joint application, they may submit a single proposal with a maximum budget of up to C$10,000 per application.
Funding must be used to pay for eligible travel expenses that correspond to and comply with KPU’s Business and Travel Expense Procedures.
How to Apply
Submit the following documents to global.partnerships@kpu.ca by the application deadline:
Applications have closed
Application Process
What Can I Do with the funds from the KPU Global SDGs Fund?
Proposed projects can include various project activities that support the purpose of this fund; however, all proposed projects must clearly demonstrate the alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Here are some activity ideas organized around different SDGs. *The examples shown below are for reference only; other projects or initiatives can be presented as part of the application.
Past Funding Projects
Through this funding faculty have had a number of career enriching experiences that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
#3 Good Health & Wellbeing
Faculty have received funding to participate in projects supporting UN SDG #3 Good Health & Wellbeing.
- Creation of Global Health Field Schools in Tanzania, Guatemala and Sri Lanka which provided nursing services to those in underdeveloped communities.
#4 Quality Education
Faculty have received funding to participate in projects supporting UN SDG #4 Quality Education.
- Teaching best practices of UN SDGs in Education as a visiting lecturer at Skoda Auto University.
- Attending global conferences gaining insights into SDGs enhancements, strengthening KPU’s international partnerships and sharing knowledge with the KPU community which has assisted KPU efforts in advancing the SDGs.
#5 Gender Equality
Faculty have received funding to participate in projects supporting UN SDG #5 Gender Equality.
- Volunteering in The Women Empowerment Project & Education Support program in Thailand.
- Delivering leadership and personal development workshops to women entrepreneurs from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.
- Engaging with women, youth and children through a 3 week Arts and Research residency in future ecologies at Spacehouse Himalayas in India.
#11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
Faculty have received funding to participate in projects supporting UN SDG #11 Sustainable Cities and Communities.
- Created an Amazon Interdisciplinary Field School which explores themes of sustainability, conservation, community development and indigenous perspectives.
- Presented at Livable Cities conference at City University London
#17 Partnerships for the Goals
Faculty have received funding to participate in projects supporting UN SDG #17 Partnerships for the Goals.
- Building a network of UN SDGs experts across global institutions in Indonesia.
- Formalizing an articulation agreement after years collaborating with Canadian University Dubai.
Featured Faculty Stories
Expanding Global Horizons: How KPU’s Global SDGs Fund is Making an Impact
At KPU, faculty members are encouraged to explore global opportunities that enhance their teaching, research, and professional growth. The KPU Global SDGs Fund supports this initiative by enabling…
Global Perspectives: Sue Fairburn's Journey
Sue Fairburn, a faculty member in the Faculty of Product Design/Technical Apparel at KPU, recently embarked on an enriching international experience, made possible through KPU's Global Sustainable…
Igniting Global Impact - KPU Nursing Field Schools
Meet Cindy Milner —a dedicated faculty member in the Faculty of Health at Kwantlen Polytechnic University and a passionate Nursing instructor. In 2024, Cindy led transformative field school…
Where to Find More Information?
Details regarding the purpose of this fund and its priorities, eligible and ineligible project activities and expenses, pre and post-trip requirements and other important information can be found in the KPU’s Global SDGs Fund Applicant Guidelines.
Questions?
The Global Development and Partnerships Team is here to support you! Check out our FAQ page or contact us at global.partnerships@kpu.ca.