who we are
Indigenous Philanthropy Advisors is a boutique advisory practice grounded in the belief that stronger relationships lead to better philanthropy and more meaningful change.
We work alongside organizations across Canada and the United States as they navigate complex questions about philanthropy, governance, Indigenous engagement, organizational change, and partnership.
Our role is to listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions, and help organizations move forward in ways that honour Indigenous leadership and community priorities.
why we started ipa
Relationships at the Heart of the Work
At the heart of our work is a teaching shared with us by Anishinaabe Elders that has shaped our understanding of change: systems change happens through relationships and time.
Indigenous Philanthropy Advisors was founded on the belief that stronger relationships between Indigenous communities and philanthropy create the conditions for lasting change. Funding is important, but it is not enough on its own. Meaningful, enduring impact comes from relationships built on trust, reciprocity, shared learning, and a willingness to work together over time.
As we worked alongside Indigenous organizations and philanthropic institutions, it became clear that many shared a desire to work together while navigating different histories, perspectives, and ways of working. IPA was created to bridge perspectives, navigate complexity, and create space for collaboration.
Today, we partner with Indigenous-led organizations, foundations, charities, businesses, and collaborative initiatives as they move thoughtfully from intention to meaningful action.
A Boutique Practice
by Design
IPA intentionally remains a small practice so we can stay closely connected to the work, tailor every engagement to the people and context involved, and build lasting partnerships.
Rather than building a large consulting firm, we've chosen to remain intentionally small. This allows us to stay directly involved in every engagement, respond with flexibility, and provide the care and attention that relationship-based work requires.
our team
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Nicole McDonald
Founder & CEO
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Aiden Cyr
Research Associate
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Abbey Kealey
Operations & Project Coordinator
our Trusted Collaborators
When additional expertise is needed, we work alongside a trusted network of researchers, facilitators, designers, evaluators, and subject-matter experts whose experience complements our own.
Over the years, we've also had the privilege of partnering with a number of outstanding consulting firms and organizations to support collaborative client engagements.
Contact us
continuing the conversation
The work of building stronger relationships between Indigenous communities and philanthropy is ongoing. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute alongside organizations committed to listening, learning, and moving thoughtfully from intention to action.