General Bursaries

We want SALTS trips to be accessible to as many youth as possible. We also offer an Indigenous Youth Bursary (IYB).

Note: Bursary recipients not pictured; all photos are of SALTS programs.

About General Financial Aid Bursaries

Thanks to generous donors who share our passion we offer bursaries for young people who couldn't otherwise afford the full cost of a trip. Barriers to participating in a SALTS trip can also include challenges like family breakdown, bereavement, recovery from serious illness, recent immigration, or other tough circumstances faced by young people from all walks of life.

Through bursary partners, we also receive referrals of youth who are considered at risk and those who are supported by community-based programs and social services.

Large red starfish held in the foreground with people paddling a canoe on a lake in the background
Large red starfish held in the foreground with people paddling a canoe on a lake in the background

Summer and Spring Break Bursaries

We understand that the full cost of a SALTS voyage may be out of reach, even for those who wouldn't otherwise seek financial aid.

If the full trip cost is a barrier, you're encouraged to consider applying for a General Financial Aid bursary, which typically covers a portion of the trip fee.

Bursaries are awarded based on eligibility criteria, demonstrated need (including combined household income up to $124,000) and extenuating circumstances. The bursary committee reviews applications and issues bursary awards until designated funds are exhausted, so be sure to register and apply early!

Four people pull a rope aboard a wooden sailboat on a lake, with mountains and cloudy skies in the background.
Four people pull a rope aboard a wooden sailboat on a lake, with mountains and cloudy skies in the background.

Application Process

Bursary applications are accepted after a trip has been assigned.  The Information and Application Guide can be requested within the online Trip Request form or downloaded as a PDF below.

General Bursary Information and Application Guide


Bursary recipients must agree to perform at least one hour of volunteer service to a non-profit organization for every $100 of bursary funding they receive and send a thank you letter describing their SALTS trip experience to be shared with bursary donors following their trip.

Low-angle view of a sailboat mast, rigging, and white sails against a bright blue sky
Low-angle view of a sailboat mast, rigging, and white sails against a bright blue sky

Group Program Bursaries

Bursary funding is also available for young people participating in a group voyage (trips booked by school or other organization). If that is you, talk to your trip organizer about the Group Program Bursary application process.