Future-ready workforce

Preparing the next generation for jobs in the evolving energy sector

Cenovus is investing in career readiness programs focused on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), skilled trades and energy literacy to ensure youth gain the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in the energy industry.

Energizing Futures

As the energy industry evolves, so must the workforce. Cenovus invests in post-secondary institutions so students can build a strong foundation that leads to a meaningful career in our industry. Beyond supporting hands-on learning through programming and innovative infrastructure (such as labs and makerspaces), our staff are involved in mentoring students, sitting on advisory committees and guest lecturing at universities, colleges and polytechnics.

What our partners say

“Energy sector careers are well-paid, interesting and technologically forward-thinking. Cenovus’s investment helps ensure Saskatchewan remains at the forefront of the oil and gas sector. Sask Polytech students will be equipped with cutting-edge skills and knowledge, delivered by our extraordinary instructors, in the state-of-the-art Cenovus Energy Labs.”

— Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech President and CEO

Indigenous reconciliation

Advancing the social and economic inclusion of Indigenous peoples

Cenovus is committed to supporting reconciliation by working with Indigenous communities to enhance economic well-being, address critical needs and promote Indigenous identity, knowledge and cultural understanding.

Indigenous Housing Initiative

After listening to Indigenous communities’ concerns and priorities, Cenovus launched the Indigenous Housing Initiative in January 2020 — the largest community investment in the company’s history.

What our partners say

"We’ve watched families moving into safe, modern homes in Beaver Lake Cree Nation and Heart Lake First Nation with young people feeling hopeful about staying close to home. It showed us what’s possible when Indigenous communities take the lead, and we’re excited to bring that same spirit to Whitefish Lake First Nation."

— Herb Jackson, Chief, Whitefish Lake First Nation

“We have about 3,000 band members and only 300 homes. So, the crisis is always there and is always ongoing. The relationship has always been a great one with Cenovus; they have always listened and try to do the best they can to help us along the way.”

— Roger Marten, Past Chief, Cold Lake First Nations

Resilient communities

Supporting the health, safety and resiliency of the places we call home

We’re committed to helping communities thrive — not just today, but for generations to come. To help build resilient communities equipped to adapt, recover and grow stronger, our support includes enhancing emergency preparedness and disaster response, fostering inclusion and sponsoring important events that provide social and economic benefits to communities.

What our partners say

"I am thrilled to witness the collaboration between the City of Lloydminster and Cenovus as they join forces to support recreation and cultural opportunities for our community. This partnership signifies the importance of strong relationships between local government and corporate entities. Cenovus's support will undoubtedly enhance the quality of life for our residents and visitors. With the Cenovus Energy Hub as our flagship facility, we are poised to become a hub for national events, attracting visitors and showcasing the vibrancy and potential of Lloydminster on a national stage."

— Gerald Aalbers, Lloydminster Mayor

Protected planet

Helping improve nature outcomes through conservation and restoration

We're committed to supporting organizations that protect and sustain the natural environment for future generations. Through targeted conservation and restoration efforts, these organizations work to preserve biodiversity, rehabilitate ecosystems and promote sustainable land use, ensuring nature continues to thrive alongside human progress.

What our partners say

“Wetlands are so much more than just wet land; they not only teem with wildlife, including species-at-risk, but also perform key functions, such as mitigating floods, cycling nutrients and storing carbon. Cenovus’s generous and forward-thinking donation will have an immense impact on the Nature Conservancy of Canada’s efforts to conserve wetland ecosystems, including those within prairie grasslands. Conserving wetlands, like those found at The Yarrow conservation property of southwestern Alberta, is an essential step in permanently protecting biodiversity, maintaining clean water and buffering the effects of climate change.”

— Tom Lynch-Staunton, Regional Vice-President, Nature Conservancy of Canada

FAQs

  • How do you decide which projects to support?

    We carefully review each proposal to ensure it fits our social investment strategy, focus areas (see above) and our purpose & values, and will deliver meaningful impact. This helps us support lasting, positive change in the communities where we live and work.

  • How can my organization apply for funding?

    Please review apply for funding, which includes funding criteria and tips, as well as the online application form.

  • How do you define "youth"?

    Under the Future-Ready Workforce focus area, Cenovus aims to support young people aged 15-35.

  • Do you fund sports teams or individual athletes (e.g., youth, school sports team, extracurricular programs, major or minor sports)?

    Most sports-related requests are supported through Cenovus Cares, our employee giving and volunteering program. Employees can receive donation matches for their contributions to school or extracurricular sports and can also generate grants based on volunteer hours.

    Occasionally, Cenovus may support or sponsor sports teams depending on their impact and location. However, we are unable to support Olympic athletes or other individual pursuits as it does not align with our eligibility requirements.

  • Does Cenovus have a scholarship program? Who is the program open to?

    Yes. We offer an Indigenous Scholarship Program for post-secondary students who self-identify as Indigenous. We also have direct scholarships with many post-secondary partners in key disciplines – details for those are on our Careers page.

Social investment in action

Social investment at Cenovus
Creating positive social impact is integral to how we do business. Learn more about our Social Investment Strategy.
Cenovus Cares
Learn how we support employee giving and volunteering, empowering our people to support causes that matter most to them and, together, turn their passions into impact.
Looking for funding?
We support community-focused organizations and initiatives that align with our social investment and business priorities through donations and sponsorships. Find out if you can Apply for funding.