The Yukon Foundation focuses on Yukoners aiding Yukoners in reaching their potential through offering grants for various projects. Since its inception in 1980 with a modest fund, it has grown significantly, administering scholarships and grants from over 150 funds, aimed at educational advancement, supporting the well-being of Yukon residents, and promoting the cultural heritage of the Yukon.
The broad goals of the grant program include promoting educational advancement, scientific or medical research, supporting the mental, cultural, and physical well-being of Yukon residents, and promoting Yukon's cultural heritage. Specific projects supported by the grants cover a wide range of causes including assistance for physically challenged people, support for women's shelters and animal shelters, heart health initiatives, arts and music, environmental sciences, sustainable energy, historical and cultural preservation, enhancement of educational properties, and research focused on climate change effects. Grants also target special equipment provision for the physically challenged, improvement of competitive sports facilities and training, support for children’s projects, and the protection of the natural environment. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate clear benefits to the Yukon community, including those promoting Yukon’s cultural heritage, supporting the education of Yukon First Nation students, and enhancing recycling and waste reduction efforts.