Indigenous Organizations in Edmonton, Alberta

Indigenous Science, Technology, and Society (Indigenous STS) Program

The Indigenous STS program is an international research and teaching initiative that prioritizes Indigenous self-determination and the integrity of Indigenous knowledge systems in scientific and technological fields. The program examines how science and technology affect Indigenous peoples' sovereignty, governance, and self-determination.

Summer Internship for INdigenous Peoples in Genomics Canada (SING Canada)

SING Canada is a week-long intensive workshop that brings together Indigenous students and community members to learn about genomics, bioinformatics, and Indigenous understandings of DNA and data. The program aims to build capacity and develop leadership within Indigenous communities around genomics and bioinformatics.

Location: University of Alberta, Edmonton (Associated with Indigenous STS Program)

Indigenous in STEM Students Association (ISSA)

ISSA aims to establish an environment wherein Indigenous STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) students can confidently know that their needs are being acknowledged and catered to. Their mission includes cultivating a sense of community and mentorship, providing resources for leadership development, encouraging prospective students, establishing a platform for student tutoring, and facilitating peer support.

Faculty Advisor: Chelsea Benally (Engineering)

I-STEAM Pathways Program

A program designed to provide Indigenous undergraduate students with research experience in environmental science and engineering. The I-STEAM (Indigenous - Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Pathways Program focuses on environmental research, science, and engineering with high potential for bioinformatics and data analysis engagement.

Location: University of Alberta, Edmonton

Canadian Indigenous Languages and Literacy Development Institute (CILLDI)

CILLDI focuses on Indigenous language revitalization, linguistics, and literacy development. The institute offers interdisciplinary training that includes data-driven research in linguistics and education, contributing to the preservation and revitalization of Indigenous languages across Canada.

Location: University of Alberta, Edmonton

Indigenous and Black Engineering and Technology (IBET) Project

The IBET Project at the University of Alberta aims to increase the representation of Indigenous and Black professionals in engineering and technology fields. The initiative provides scholarships, mentorship, and support for graduate students pursuing studies in these fields.

Location: University of Alberta, Edmonton

Aboriginal Student Council (ASC)

The Aboriginal Student Council represents Indigenous students at the University of Alberta. The ASC advocates for Indigenous students' needs, organizes cultural and social events, and creates community spaces for Indigenous students on campus.

Indigenous Graduate Students' Association (IGSA)

IGSA supports Indigenous graduate students at the University of Alberta through mentorship, networking, advocacy, and community-building activities. The group also promotes research by and for Indigenous communities.

First Peoples' House

First Peoples' House provides a sense of community and belonging to Indigenous students at the University of Alberta. The center offers cultural support, academic services, and a gathering space for Indigenous students, helping them navigate university life while maintaining their cultural identity.

Other University of Alberta Indigenous Student Groups

The University of Alberta hosts several additional Indigenous-focused student groups, including:

• Native Studies Students' Association (NSSA)
• Indigenous Students Union (ISU)
• Arts Aboriginal Council
• Indigenous Law Students' Association
• Indigenous Medical Dental Student Association

These groups promote community, advocacy, and cultural connections for Indigenous students in various faculties.

Yellowhead Tribal College

Yellowhead Tribal College is Edmonton's only First Nations college. YTC offers a variety of programs including Information Technology, Environmental Monitoring & Drone Technician Certificate, Renewable Energy Installation Assistant, and Indigenous Environmental Stewardship & Reclamation programs. The college is committed to academic excellence while preserving and promoting Indigenous cultures and traditions.

Location: 10045 – 156 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta

Rupertsland Institute – Rupertsland Centre for Métis Research

The Rupertsland Centre for Métis Research (RCMR) is an academic research center focused on Métis issues, with potential interest in data analysis and STEM-related workshops. The centre serves as a hub for scholarly engagement, research, and collaboration between the Métis community, post-secondary institutions, and other Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations.

NorQuest College - Miyo-pimâtisiwin Centre

NorQuest College's Miyo-pimâtisiwin Centre provides culturally responsive services and supports for Indigenous students. The center offers academic advising, cultural activities, Elder services, and a community gathering space for Indigenous students pursuing higher education.

Location: 10215 108 St NW, Edmonton, AB

NAIT - Nîsôhkamâtotân Centre

The Nîsôhkamâtotân Centre at NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) provides a welcoming environment and specialized services for Indigenous students. The center offers cultural programming, academic support, and community connections while helping students navigate NAIT's technical and technological programs.

Location: 11762 106 St NW, Edmonton, AB

MacEwan University - kihêw waciston Indigenous Centre

kihêw waciston Indigenous Centre provides cultural and academic supports for Indigenous students at MacEwan University. The centre offers a gathering space, access to Elders, cultural activities, and academic advising to support Indigenous students' success in post-secondary education.

The university also hosts several STEM-focused student groups including:

• Indigenous Students Club
• MacEwan Data Science Club
• Computer Science Student Society

IndigeSTEAM

IndigeSTEAM is an organization that promotes Indigenous engagement in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Through workshops, programs, and collaborations, IndigeSTEAM works to increase Indigenous participation and leadership in STEAM fields while incorporating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives.

While the organization has a broader reach, it maintains connections with Indigenous communities and educational institutions in Edmonton.

Canadian Bioinformatics Workshops (CBW)

The Canadian Bioinformatics Workshops provide advanced training in bioinformatics to researchers across Canada. CBW has scheduled workshops to be held in Edmonton in July 2025, bringing specialized bioinformatics training to local researchers, including Indigenous students and scholars.