Overview

The Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) is a provincial initiative launched in 2018. It aims to reduce barriers and increase opportunities for Black communities across Ontario.

BYAP supports:

  • children
  • youth
  • families
  • young professionals
  • entrepreneurs
  • people in conflict with the law

Services and initiatives

The Black Youth Action Plan (BYAP) partners with community organizations to deliver services and supports, including:

  • Family wellness and early intervention
  • Educational supports
  • Economic empowerment
  • Community capacity building

Family wellness and early intervention

These programs support Black children, youth and families by strengthening relationships, improving emotional well-being and connecting people to community-based services:

  • Stop Now and Plan helps children aged 6 to 12 with behavioural challenges. It supports better decision-making and self-regulation and equips caregivers with effective parenting strategies
  • Innovative Supports for Black Parents strengthens family relationships and community connections for Black parents and caregivers
  • Youth Mentorship Program (YMP) connects youth with caring mentors. It fosters emotional well-being, resilience, and progress in education, employment and leadership
  • Youth Outreach Worker (YOW) and Enhanced YOW programs provide early intervention and crisis support. They link youth and families to essential services like housing, mental health care and training

Call or text 211 Ontario to find programs and supports near you , or Contact us.

Educational supports

Student-Family Advocates (SFAs) connect Black students and families to educational and career services and opportunities. They help overcome barriers in navigating school processes and systems.

To find a service agency near you, Contact us.

Economic empowerment

BYAP supports economic empowerment for Black youth and professionals through career development, entrepreneurship and employment support.

  • Career Launch and Career Advance build pathways into high-opportunity careers by promoting in-demand skills and sector-based training
  • Industry-Led Career Initiative offers work placements and support to help Black youth thrive in fast-growing fields
  • Sector Innovation Networks and the DMZ Black Innovation Program provide mentorship, training and resources to help Black entrepreneurs grow their businesses
  • Black Employment Support Program aids individuals transitioning from the corrections system by connecting them with job opportunities

To find a service agency near you, Contact us.

Community capacity building

The Youth Opportunities Fund (YOF) provides grants to grassroots groups and organizations that support youth and families facing barriers.

Projects funded through YOF help:

  • address racism and systemic barriers
  • support Indigenous, Black and newcomer youth in accessing career opportunities
  • empower girls and young women to lead economic empowerment initiatives

To learn how to apply for funding, visit Youth Opportunities Fund, Ontario Trillium Foundation.

Contact us

For more information about the BYAP program, please email us.

Email: youthengagement@ontario.ca