Global understanding. Local action.
A do tank for a more
inclusive, participatory society.
Every day, we reimagine civic participation.
How can it become more accessible, inclusive and innovative? What prevents us from serving more people? What should we build—or rethink—to change that?
These questions shape GLOCAL’s work. We bring together digital technology, creative service design and community experience to widen the ways people can participate. We co-design practical solutions with Canadians, for Canadians.
We are a do tank. Through online volunteering, experiential learning, microgrants and civic-information tools, we turn reflection into practical opportunities. Youth and underserved communities help shape the projects, contribute their knowledge and test what works.
Our focus is last-mile delivery: connecting civic information, services, resources and opportunities with people in ways they can actually use. We connect global understanding with local action through localisation—adapting knowledge and tools to communities’ languages, needs and lived experience.
- 9,738
- GLOCAL members
- 13
- Provinces & territories
- 392 plus
- Projects showcased
Different skills. Shared purpose.
A place for your contribution.
One community. Many starting points.
Making a difference,
from coast to coast to coast.
Our members span all 13 provinces and territories. Select a region to explore our community.
- Members
- Members by province
- Unspecified province
- 1,454
- Overseas members
- 78
8,206 members across Canada · September 2026 snapshot
See what young people make possible
Meet young people turning community ideas into action with GLOCAL microgrants. Watch their stories, then explore the projects they created.
Explore the projectsFind a starting point. Make a difference.
- 01
Choose your contribution
Share your skills through service, explore a civic question or bring a community idea.
- 02
Learn by doing
Research, create and test with others through volunteering and youth-led projects.
- 03
Share what you build
Record your service, share useful work and connect with a community that celebrates it.
#GLOCAL Events
Testimonials
Testimonials
#GLOCAL in Action
#GLOCAL in Action
GLOCAL Community
GLOCAL Community
GLOCAL Appoints Board Members
GLOCAL Appoints Board Members
Ottawa, 26 June 2023 – GLOCAL Foundation of Canada is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Laura Stephenson and Dr. Fred Cutler as charter members of its Board of Directors.
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Common FAQ
What is the GLOCAL Foundation of Canada?
GLOCAL Foundation of Canada is a national not-for-profit organization. Our mission is to encourage civic participation through local engagement and global understanding among Canadian youth. We empower young Canadians to contribute to digital civic-engagement infrastructure, and we address challenges related to civic-information accessibility, misinformation and information overload.
What can I do as a volunteer?
With six tracks to explore — research, data, digital, outreach, communication and compliance — you can take part in activities ranging from quick fun challenges to sophisticated projects. You will also have access to workshops, events, seminars and team-building activities.
I am over 30. Can I still volunteer?
Yes. You may not be eligible for some programs, but we always welcome mentors and experienced professionals. We appreciate the skills and experience you bring.
Do I need a microgrant to volunteer or create a project?
No. You can volunteer your time and contribute to a project without funding. Microgrants are a separate opportunity for eligible youth who need financial support for a community initiative. Explore microgrant eligibility and funding.