Student-Led Initiatives
Student Impact Fund
The Student Impact Fund exists to support student-led projects and initiatives that advance academic success, financial literacy, and career development opportunities for Lakehead University students.
The fund is intended to:
1. Encourage student leadership, innovation, and peer-driven programming;
2. Support initiatives that provide meaningful benefits to the broader student community;
3. Enhance services and programming aligned with academic support, financial aid awareness, and career readiness; and
4. Improve student access to resources that contribute to academic achievement and post-graduation success.
Accessing the Fund
Students can bring forward proposals for the Student Impact Fund by completing an application form. Proposals will be reviewed by a committee consisting of student, LUSU and Lakehead University representatives. All proposals will be evaluated following the January 15 and February 15 deadlines.
Evaluation Criteria
The committee will review each proposal based on the following criteria:
1. Alignment with Fee Purpose. Clear and demonstrable connection to the objectives and definition of the applicable Essential Ancillary Fee.
2. Student Impact. Demonstrated benefit to Lakehead students, including scope, accessibility, and anticipated outcomes.
3. Complementarity. Evidence that the initiative complements, rather than duplicates, relevant existing services and programs.
4. Financial Responsibility. Reasonable and transparent budget with a clear explanation of how funds will be used.
5. Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Accessibility of programming and consideration of diverse and equity-deserving student communities. This shall include considerations for inclusiveness of campus representation (e.g. Thunder Bay, Orillia, Barrie, and/or remote study).
6. Feasibility and Risk Management. Clear and realistic plan for delivery, including timeline and capacity to carry out the initiative. Where relevant, applicants should identify any significant risks and demonstrate appropriate oversight or experience.
Projects must also take place within the same academic year as the application.