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

The Asper Foundation Strengthens JCFS Winnipeg through Empowerment Program

The Asper Foundation Strengthens JCFS Winnipeg through Empowerment Program

April 1, 2025

The Asper Foundation is proud to announce its support of the newly created Asper Empowerment Program at Jewish Child and Family Service (JCFS) Winnipeg. The Asper Empowerment Program will be dedicated to addressing critical issues such as food insecurity, financial literacy, and employment assistance primarily for individuals and families. For more information, click here.

Launch of Asper Community Shabbat Program

Launch of Asper Community Shabbat Program

April 2024

In April 2024, The Asper Foundation established the Asper Community Shabbat (Sabbath) Program with the inaugural Shabbat being hosted by the Jewish Heritage Centre of Western Canada and invited guests from the Bear Clan Patrol. For more information, click here.

Article: Shabbat Ceilidh: An Unforgettable Production by The Winnipeg Jewish Theatre in Partnership with The Asper Foundation (The Jewish Post, March 19, 2025)

Article: Interfaith outreach program brings Winnipeggers together (Winnipeg Free Press, February 1, 2025)

Gail Asper Receives the Sol Kanee Distinguished Community Service Medal

Gail Asper Receives the Sol Kanee Distinguished Community Service Medal

September 26, 2024

Gail Asper, Chair of The Asper Foundation, received the Sol Kanee Distinguished Community Service Medal at the Kavod Evening at Winnipeg’s Congregation Shaarey Zedek Synagogue. For more information on the award, see here and here.

David Asper Inducted into Manitoba Jewish Sports Wall of Honour

David Asper Inducted into Manitoba Jewish Sports Wall of Honour

June 18, 2024

At the recent 50th Annual Rady Jewish Community Centre Ken Kronson Sports Dinner, David Asper, KC was inducted into the 2024 Cyril ‘Zeke’ Marantz (z’’l) Manitoba Jewish Sports Wall of Honour. For more information, see here and here.

The Asper Foundation Spearhead’s Support for Campaign Against Antisemitism

The Asper Foundation Spearhead’s Support for Campaign Against Antisemitism

January 2024

The Asper Foundation is proud to be a foundational supporter for the creation of The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affair’s new Winnipeg office which serves Manitoba and Saskatchewan in response to concerns about rising antisemitism and anti-Zionism.

The office was created in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg and is led by Gustavo Zentner. 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.