QueerTech and Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada Announce $2,500 Award for 2SLGBTQIA+ Students in Technology

Montreal, QC - November 1, 2026 | Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada (Lambda Foundation) and QueerTech are pleased to announce the creation of the new "Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada & QueerTech Award”. Applications open November 1, 2026, for this $2,500 annual cash tuition award. Applications will close on November 30, 2026.

"This award reflects Lambda Foundation's commitment to expanding scholarship opportunities for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth into new fields. Technology is shaping the future, and we want to ensure 2SLGBTQIA+ students are part of building it. We're proud to make that possible alongside QueerTech." — Darren Stehle, Development of Development Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada.

Purpose of the Award

Lambda Foundation's 2025-2030 Strategic Plan identifies scholarship expansion as a core priority, broadening scholarships available to 2SLGBTQIA+ youth across different fields, institutions, and geographic locations. The Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada & QueerTech Award represents this vision in action, tailored specifically to students pursuing technology careers.

QueerTech brings deep roots in Canada's tech ecosystem, building pathways for 2SLGBTQIA+ people from initial access through to career advancement and entrepreneurship. Together, this partnership helps to advance the critical work of increasing access to both recognition and financial support for deserving 2SLGBTQIA+ and allied students in technology.

The award is funded through a dedicated endowment administered by the Veritas Foundation. Lambda Foundation has launched a fundraising campaign with a goal of raising $50,000 to grow the endowment and expand the award's long-term impact. To support the next generation of 2SLGBTQIA+ technology leaders, visit: Queertech.info/LambdaQueerTechAward-Fund. 

Eligibility Criteria & Applications

The award is open to full-time post-secondary students enrolled in technology or technology-adjacent programs who demonstrate a commitment to 2SLGBTQIA+ communities through their academic or community work.

 Applicants and selected recipients must meet all the following conditions:

• Have successfully completed at least one full-time academic year with a minimum average grade of 75% and demonstrate financial need;

• Self-identify as 2SLGBTQIA+, or be demonstrably active in the community as an ally;

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident; and,

• Submit a one-page cover letter outlining their suitability for the award, and a letter of recommendation detailing the quality and impact of their academic or community-based work in advancing understanding of, and contributions to, 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. 

QueerTech’s Role

QueerTech will administer the award selection process by reviewing applications and recommending an eligible recipient, drawing on its expertise as a national nonprofit deeply embedded in Canada's 2SLGBTQIA+ technology community. This selection will be subject to final approval by Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada.

“This scholarship brings together QueerTech’s commitment to building a more inclusive technology sector and Lambda Scholarship Foundation’s dedication to empowering queer students through education. Together, we’re helping remove barriers, create opportunities, and support the next generation of 2SLGBTQIA+ leaders in technology,” said Neil Pengelly, EY Partner and QueerTech Board of Directors Member.

Apply Now

Individuals interested in the Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada & QueerTech Award are encouraged to apply here.

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About QueerTech:

QueerTech is a national nonprofit advancing 2SLGBTQIA+ talent, entrepreneurship, and inclusive technology across Canada's tech ecosystem. Through community-led programming, original research, strategic partnerships, and actionable inclusion tools, we build pathways into tech and help shape a more responsible and equitable technology industry — because real change doesn't happen in silos.

More information: https://queertech.info/QueerTech_LearnMore. 

About Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada:

Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada is a national charity dedicated to advancing research, education, and leadership among 2SLGBTQIA+ and QTBIPOC communities. Through scholarships, mentorship, and partnerships with post-secondary institutions and community organizations, Lambda Foundation helps ensure equitable access to learning and recognition for queer and trans excellence.

For more information, visit www.lambdafoundation.org.

Media Contacts:

Darren Stehle | Director of Development, Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada

[email protected] | www.lambdafoundation.org | (C) 514-703-4084

 Lauren Hicks | PR & Media Manager 

[email protected] | https://queertech.org