Some ideas are so bold, they spark a movement.
Across the philanthropy landscape, “donor-decide” giving, which empowers supporters to play an active role in choosing which innovations they fund, has been on the rise. Inspired by this shift, the University Hospital Foundation launched Igniters in September 2024: a first-of-its-kind giving program in Alberta designed to engage a new generation of philanthropists who want more than to simply give.
They want to connect, decide and see the change they make in health.
In its very first year, University Hospital Foundation’s Igniters brought together 15 inaugural members — individuals, couples and corporate members — each committing $10,000 over two years. By pooling their contributions, they created a collective impact greater than any single gift, and they stepped into a hands-on journey of discovery, innovation and decision-making.
The year began with a vibrant, mixer-style launch event where potential members connected with like-minded change-makers and learned how their philanthropy could spark new health innovations. Soon after, the Igniters got a behind-the-scenes look at how their giving could transform care:
These experiences connected members to the heart of the Foundation’s mission: redefining health through innovation, research and complex patient care.
The first Igniters cycle culminated in June 2025 with the Annual Voting Experience, an evening of energy, excitement and impact. In a Dragon’s Den-style event, three visionary health innovators pitched bold projects under the theme Redefining Health: AI Technology and Sustainability for a Better Future.
After compelling presentations and a live vote, Dr. Brian Buck’s project, “Biomarkers and EEG for Acute Stroke Prehospital Triage (BEFAST),” was selected to receive $77,500 in Igniters funding. His innovative project will bring AI-driven stroke detection to ambulances, helping patients across Alberta receive faster, life-saving treatment.
“The energy in the room was electric,” shared Dr. Jodi Abbott, President and CEO of the Foundation. “This isn’t just about funding projects; it’s about aligning philanthropy with purpose. The Igniters are showing that the next generation of donors wants to be hands-on, values-driven and deeply connected to the change they’re making.”
The success of the first year has proven the power of donor-decide philanthropy, AKA active philanthropy. Each Igniter not only contributed financially, but also shared in the joy of discovery, the thrill of decision-making and the pride of impact.
Tonight, October 2nd, we launch year two of Igniters! We’re excited to grow this community of bold givers — people who believe that philanthropy should be active, collaborative and deeply meaningful. Together, Igniters will continue to fuel innovation and redefine what it means to give.
To learn more about Igniters or express interest in joining the next cohort, visit GiveToUHF.ca/Igniters