Desjardins is a financial services cooperative whose community initiatives include scholarships supporting young people pursuing their education. Through the Desjardins Foundation and participating local caisses, it awards financial assistance to thousands of students each year. The programs recognize perseverance and community engagement as well as academic achievement, and help students who need financial support to continue postsecondary studies.

Scholarships are available for vocational, college, and university studies. Listed awards range from $1,000 for vocational training to $1,500 for college, $2,000 for undergraduate studies, $3,000 for master’s-level studies, and $5,000 for doctoral studies. Applications are submitted through a centralized online platform, where applicants can review rules, create a profile, and access a secure account. Profiles may be created at any time, while applications are accepted annually from March 1 to 31. Applications are sent automatically to the Foundation and participating caisses; non-members are matched with the caisse nearest their residence. Candidates are evaluated in April and May, selected applicants are notified in June, and scholarships are distributed in September and October.