About us

Partnerships with Indigenous Peoples

Committed to building great partnerships with communities

At ATCO, we strive to build and maintain sincere, mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous communities based on respect, trust, understanding and transparency.

We provide longstanding support to Indigenous organizations and initiatives that contribute to sustainable economic and social development of Indigenous communities near our operations. We believe our investment in the education and opportunities of young Indigenous leaders is the key to the future. ATCO believes in supporting the dreams and goals of our youth as we ultimately benefit from their leadership and energy in the future.

ATCO also invests in a multitude of events and initiatives that preserve and honour the many unique Indigenous cultures.

Indigenous Education Awards

ATCO Indigenous Education Awards Program

Our Indigenous Education Awards Program supports students from First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities who demonstrate a balanced lifestyle and commitment in their quest for education. The Merit, Bursary, Scholarship and Bridging Awards are available to select students who demonstrate leadership capabilities and strive to be role models in their school and community.

The application period for 2025 will be available starting August 1, 2025; submission deadline is 11:59 p.m. September 30, 2025.

Stay tuned to our website and social media pages for further announcements. 

The Awards

There are four different awards available:

  • Merit Awards ($750) – for students completing Grades 9 – 12
  • Bursaries ($1200) – for students enrolled in trade/community technical college diploma or certificate program
  • Scholarship ($1800) – for students enrolled in degree or graduate programs
  • Bridging Awards ($1000) – for  students registered in an upgrading program (Adult Basic Education) or University Preparation program

There is a maximum of one award per applicant per student year. Students may re-apply each year if they wish to be considered for another award.

Eligibility

You can apply for one of our Indigenous Education Awards if you:

  • Self-identify as Indigenous in Canada (First Nations, Inuit, or Métis);
  • Are enrolled full-time in junior/senior high school (including upgrading) or an accredited post-secondary institution or training/certificate program;
  • Are not a child of an ATCO employee.