Special Initiatives

The Foundation recognizes that there are exciting prospects that may fall outside our main areas of focus.

Novel ideas and collaborations

Through the Special Initiatives Fund, the Foundation has the flexibility to explore new ideas and opportunities outside its main areas of action, and to partner with other funders to advance innovative and exciting initiatives.

Strengthening philanthropy

The Foundation recognizes that increasingly, the promotion of a dynamic philanthropic culture and a strong charitable sector will be essential to Canada and its communities if they are to succeed in the 21st century. The Foundation will provide support to selected organizations and initiatives that promote and encourage philanthropy in Canada and that help build the capacity of charities to succeed.

Initiatives of historical and legacy interest

We are mindful of the Foundation’s roots and the people that contributed to our story along the way, and so will help fund programs and projects that have a particular historical significance for the Foundation.

Crisis assistance and disaster relief

Being responsive and nimble are key tenants of our funding approach at the Lawson Foundation. We recognize that in times of crisis or natural disaster, an immediate response and rapid funding can have great impact in addressing an immediate need.

5G Fund

Engaging the Foundation’s younger generations is a tradition that has allowed us to get to better know the new generation of philanthropists, to get them excited about the work of the Foundation, and to teach them about our grantmaking.

Supporting the Charitable Sector

Providing support to organizations and initiatives that promote and encourage philanthropy in Canada and that help build the capacity of charities to succeed.

Recent Initiatives

Innovation Works (2016- 2018)
Pillar Nonprofit Network
$225,000

Relief Efforts in Haiti after Hurricane Matthew (2016)
Doctors Without Borders/ Médecins Sans Frontières
$8,000 $

Supporting efforts for Nepal Earthquake Relief (2015)
David McAntony Gibson Foundation
$10,000 $

Supporting efforts for Syrian refugee crisis (2015)
Doctors Without Borders
$10,000

Sponsorship of the Indigenous Innovation Summit (2015)
The Circle on Philanthropy and Aboriginal Peoples in Canada
$10,000

Joan Francolini scholarship Fund (2014)
Brescia University College Foundation
$100,000

Office expansion (2014)
London Community Foundation
$10,000

Thomas C.R. Lawson Award in Commercial Aviation Management (Flight Training) Fund (2014)
Western University
$156,000