Our Approach
The Animal Welfare Foundation of Canada (AWFC) works to shift Canadian culture and policy toward a more compassionate and responsible relationship with animals. We believe that in all human actions and decisions affecting animals, whether through action or inaction, and across agriculture, education, companionship, or science, we must have due regard to their inherent needs as sentient individuals so they can thrive.
Our core aim is to transform how Canadians perceive and fulfill their responsibilities toward animals, championing the physical, psychological, and behavioural needs of all animals, including those in research, education, agriculture, entertainment, companion animals, and wildlife. We’re here to support the people and organizations working to create a future where animal care is informed by science, grounded in ethics, and driven by respect.
Our Vision
To see a Canada where all animals are respected as sentient beings with their inherent needs prioritized and treated with dignity and compassion.
Our Mission
To strategically invest in and support initiatives and programs that advance the well-being of animals across Canada and to promote their humane treatment in all settings.
Our Purpose
To drive measurable, lasting improvements in the lives of animals in Canada through the ethical and effective stewardship of donor funds.
Guiding Values
Animal-Centred Thinking
Prioritize the physical, psychological, and behavioural needs of animals—recognizing their capacity for emotion, agency, and social complexity.
National Impact with Local Roots
Fund initiatives that spark national awareness and transformation, while respecting the diverse geographic and cultural landscapes of Canada.
Systems Change & Scalability
Invest in ideas and models that can be replicated or adapted across sectors and regions, driving collective change for animals beyond a single community or issue.
Strategic, Ethical Grantmaking
Fill critical funding gaps – supporting projects that have strong animal welfare potential but may be overlooked by traditional funders due to novelty, complexity, or advocacy focus.
Visibility, Voice & Viability
Support initiatives that not only help animals directly but also elevate public understanding, increase the visibility of animal welfare as a societal priority, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of AWFC work.
Our Commitments
- Work collaboratively with individuals, communities, and organizations advancing animal well-being, fostering respectful dialogue that maximizes synergy, drives innovation, and delivers stronger outcomes.
- Ensuring effective and responsible allocation of grant funds, including donor contributions, through a robust, transparent, fair, and impact-driven grant review process.
- Recognize the inextricable link between animal welfare, human well-being, and a healthy environment, known as a One Welfare Approach.
- Uphold strong governance practices, including responsible financial stewardship, ethical leadership, and proactive Board succession planning to ensure organizational sustainability.
- Compose a Board of Directors with diverse skills and backgrounds from across Canada, ensuring vital decisions on nationwide animal welfare concerns are made with considerable acumen and expertise.
- Respect and embed the principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion throughout our granting processes and organizational practices, continuously striving for meaningful improvement.