Welcome to The Asper Foundation

Israel Asper, O.C., O.M., Q.C., L.L.D. (1932 – 2003) and Babs Asper (1933 – 2011) believed that philanthropy is a driving force behind positive change in people’s quality of life. For this reason, they formed The Asper Foundation in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada in 1983 to build upon their and the Asper family’s philanthropic objectives.

Inspired by a deep commitment to impactful philanthropy, The Asper Foundation, a Winnipeg-based philanthropic organization, develops major projects and provides support to the Jewish Community and broader community in areas of culture, education, community development, and human rights on a local, national and international scale. In particular, the Foundation strives to improve the quality of life in Winnipeg, therefore much of the focus of this philanthropy is directed to the general Winnipeg community.

In the recent past, over $200 million has been donated to various charitable causes through The Asper Foundation. This website not only reflects, but celebrates the inspired vision of Israel and Babs Asper and outlines the activities and future plans of The Asper Foundation.

Major Announcements

Launch of the Manitoba Institute to Combat Antisemitism

October 3, 2025

For more information, see here, mbica.org, here, and here.

Gail Asper Receives 2025 Ignite Award

September 16, 2025

For more information, click here and here.

The Asper Foundation Pledges $25,000 Weekly Aid as MKO Calls for Urgent Support for Thousands of Northern Manitoba Wildfire Evacuees

August 6, 2025

For more information, click here.

Asper-HUJI Innovate Announces Winner of the 2025 Asper Prize

July 23, 2025

For more information, see here.

Support for Congregation Shaarey Zedek’s Capital Campaign

June 9, 2025

For more information, see here and here.

Photo credit: Keith Levit

Enhanced Funding for Rady Cultural Programs

May 12, 2025

For more information, see here.

The Asper Foundation Strengthens JCFS Winnipeg through Empowerment Program

April 1, 2025

For more information, click here.

Launch of Asper Community Shabbat Program

April 2024

For more information, click here.

The Asper Foundation Spearheads Support for Campaign Against Antisemitism

January 2024

For more information, click here.

© 2023, All Rights Reserved - Please note that The Asper Foundation does not accept applications for grants or any other type of funding.