About Lambda
Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada traces its roots to 1985 as the Lambda Business and Professional Group—a networking and social club for gay and lesbian entrepreneurs and professionals in Ottawa.
At its monthly meetings, members donated funds to support causes related to the gay and lesbian community. As the group’s membership and reputation grew, the organizers re-envisioned its mission and, in 1992, transformed it into the Lambda Foundation for Excellence, focusing on celebrating the queer community’s achievements in social and political arenas. One of its most notable initiatives was Wilde About Sappho, a literary fundraiser that became one of Canada’s most popular queer literary events, running from 1991 to 2006.
Over time, Lambda evolved into the Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada, expanding its focus to support equitable access to academic research, financial aid, and education. It has empowered individuals whose voices were historically silenced or underrepresented.
Today, the organization focuses on scholarships and research funding, inspiring future generations and spreading hope. Lambda funds are managed on behalf of donors according to specific agreements with participating universities and high schools. To maximize impact, Lambda organizes itself around volunteers’ expertise, keeping administrative costs low and ensuring that funds raised to start or support specific awards go directly to them.
Guided by its core values of adaptability, collaboration, equity, and perseverance, Lambda is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. It remains committed to creating pathways for all individuals to achieve their educational and professional aspirations. In every sense, Lambda remains a beacon of hope—empowering, transforming, and uplifting the lives of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals across Canada.
For 40 years, Lambda’s dedication to equitable education access and fostering diverse academic research has made it a cornerstone of 2SLGBTQIA+ and QTBIPOC advocacy in Canada. By addressing historical discrimination and systemic marginalization, Lambda is paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable Canada.
Our Mission, Vision, & Values
Mission
To Empower 2SLGBTQIA+ and QTBIPOC Individuals Through Education and Research
Vision
A World of Equitable Access and Acceptance for 2SLGBTQIA+ and QTBIPOC Communities
Values
Adaptability: We embrace change and respond productively to diverse conditions and evolving circumstances.
Collaboration: We work together to achieve our goals and engage cooperatively with others on shared initiatives.
Equity: We are committed to building and sustaining access to resources and opportunities for all.
Perseverance: We remain steadfast in our efforts to achieve our mission, overcoming societal barriers and challenges.
Principles
Communication: We prioritize open and inclusive communication, using trauma-informed language to foster understanding, connection, and trust.
Excellence: We are committed to delivering impact that upholds the highest standards of quality.
Integrity: We adhere firmly to ethical practices, transparency, and moral accountability.
Intersectionality: We recognize that overlapping identities—such as race, gender, and class—shape unique experiences of discrimination and privilege. This framework, developed by Kimberlé Crenshaw, informs our approach.
Respect: We are unwavering in our commitment to honouring and valuing diverse perspectives, experiences, and identities.
From a Living Room to a National Foundation: Lambda Foundation’s 40-Year StorySeptember 16, 2026 - 8:37 am
Call for Board Treasurer — Apply by September 30, 2026September 11, 2026 - 9:47 am
Davis Fowlow Named Recipient of the Lambda Foundation Christian Landry Memorial Award for Graduate StudiesSeptember 10, 2026 - 8:37 am