Philanthropy program guidelines

Sun Life has a long-standing focus on community wellness. We invest in initiatives that encourage healthy and active living in our communities, as well as help create a more inclusive society. We also partner with community organizations that align with our corporate values of giving. Our goal is to make not just a donation, but also a real difference. We do this by harnessing the full breadth of our resources, including our people and expertise, to generate a positive impact. 

Our global philanthropic program helps bring our purpose to life with investments in diabetes prevention, with a focus on programs that drive positive changes in behaviour. Our goal is to help people be healthier, and lead longer and more productive lives.

On World Diabetes day in 2012, diabetes was chosen as our global philanthropic cause. Since a major portion of our business is made up of life, health and disability insurance, we see first-hand the impact of the disease around the world. Our focus is on the prevention of type 2 diabetes and diabetes related-complications.

We want to empower people to take action and improve their lives. That’s why we focus on supporting programs that encourage sustainable positive behaviour change with education and awareness. We are focused on programs that:

  • Assist or equip people to implement positive and sustainable changes.
  • Educate people on diabetes and its related complications, making lifestyle choices for healthier futures and on prevention and management methods.
  • Raise awareness about diabetes and its long-term impact on the community’s health and wealth.
  • Are national in scope, sustainable and drive measurable social impact. In Quebec, we support programs with provincial scope.
  • Support populations that need our help the most, like youth, underserved communities and groups at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Sun Life has a long-standing focus on proactive and preventive health and wellness programs that help build stronger, healthier communities.

An activity designed to promote social well-being or organized philanthropic assistance.

Programs that support mental health and well-being.

An environment where everyone is treated fairly and respectfully, has equal access to opportunities and resources, and can contribute their thoughts, beliefs, perspectives and talent fully.

How to apply for funding

Submit an application for funding here

Sun Life Diabetes Regional Grant program

Sun Life launched a North American wide regional grant program, which provides programmatic support to a maximum of $100,000 to registered charities in the U.S. and Canada focused on diabetes awareness, prevention, education and care. The program in Canada is currently closed.

Submit an application for regional grant program (currently closed)

In Quebec, all donations and sponsorship requests must be submitted through our dedicated site at sunlife.sponsor.com. 

Organizations that do not qualify as a registered charity within the applicable market of operation.

  • Religious organizations whose programs are limited to members of a specific religious denomination. However, non-denominational programs by religious groups intended for the general good of the community may be considered
  • Individuals or individual pursuits, Fraternities, lodges, Toastmaster societies, and other recreational or self-improvement organizations where participation is intended primarily for the personal advancement or benefit of the participants
  • Community service clubs such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, etc.
  • Operating expenses of United Way member agencies
  • Advocacy or special-interest groups
  • Capital campaigns, including the purchase of equipment for large-scale projects connected with construction and real estate
  • Debt-reduction campaigns
  • Conferences, seminars and workshops
  • Fundraising events (including the purchase of tickets or tables)
  • Sports clubs, sports teams or sporting events such as golf tournaments
  • Local, regional or provincial campaigns or agencies affiliated with a national organization that is already receiving corporate support
  • Professional and technical associations