We enable meaningful engagement that mobilizes resources to Indigenous organizations, movements, and nations.
We have two membership audiences: Indigenous-led and Settler Philanthropic. Throughout the year, we invite members into exclusive Circle events and gatherings and carefully curated programs tailored for each of our membership types. A few times throughout the year, we host gatherings that bring our membership together, namely through the Seasonal Members Connects and our celebrated biennial event, the All Members Gathering.
We do not consider the number of members as a metric of our success. We prioritize the depth of connection with our members and require two-way engagement to demonstrate accountability.
The Circle operates on an annual intake for membership applications, this allows us to strengthen our presence with our current members. By organizing the intake cycle annually, we can go with a rhythm that allows for stronger relationship-building, and strengthening our commitments to full engagement and accountability with our Membership.
To learn more about membership and eligibility, see the Indigenous Members page and the Philanthropic Members page.
Membership is stewarded by the Season of Summer and the value we centre is accountability.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We prioritize Indigenous-led organizations with Indigenous leadership at all levels of decision making within the organization. Review the Indigenous-led Definitional Matrix (I4DM) to determine your organization’s eligibility.
For Settler Philanthropic Members, we prioritize grant-making organizations that are values aligned and have a demonstrated commitment to Indigenous sovereignty and stewardship.
There is no fee for Indigenous-led organizations.
Settler Philanthropic Members pay annual rates based on their assets. See the Settler Philanthropic Membership page for 2026 membership rates.
No, The Circle primarily serves Indigenous-led movements, non-profits and charities. We do not accept for-profit businesses or individual people as members.
Do you have Indigenous leadership at all levels of decision making within your organization?
Does culture, knowledge, and language guide the organization and deliverables?
Do Indigenous peoples own, lead and deliver programs in relationship and response to your communities?
Do you have sustained, reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities?
Is reciprocity deeply embedded through your values, policies, practices and behaviours?
If yes to the above, you are likely an Indigenous-led organization. If you answered “no” or “maybe” to the above, please further review the I4DM to decide where your organization lands.
We started hosting “Cousins Day” leading up to some of our gatherings, such as the All Members Gathering. These days are just as they sound – a space for Indigenous cousins to come together, unfiltered, for some learning and laughs. Whether you are working with an Indigenous-led organization or a settler philanthropic – or maybe you’re not even a member yet – we always have a place for cousins! Watch for upcoming events and offerings in the Gathering Hub.
Probably, depending on the event! Many of our gatherings are exclusive offerings for our Membership (Members Connects, for example). Some of our larger convenings, like the All Members Gathering, are open to everyone but Membership ensures you get the best registration rates and priority.
Sign up for our Seasonal Newsletter and Circle Bulletin. We also have an engagement calendar, designed to keep our members up to date on our offerings, connects, and events.
The Circle accepts applications from October 1 – October 31 every year. Visit our website again in October to access our application form.
We’d like to meet with your team members who intend to engage fully with The Circle (what we call our primary contact), and if possible, someone from your senior leadership team (CEO, ED, and/or a board member).