Opportunity to Join Rise Board of Directors

Rise: Who We Are

Rise is Canada’s only national organization operating at the intersection of mental health, addiction and entrepreneurship. Rise empowers individuals with a history of mental health and addiction challenges to build small businesses as a means of employment, economic participation, and ultimately self-reliance. The results are that clients improve their financial stability, reduce reliance on social assistance, and make positive life changes to benefit themselves, their families and communities. Since 2010, we have disbursed more than 980 loans valued at over $4 million and supported 4,000+ entrepreneurs across Canada through our lending and training programs.

Rise’s impact lies in others’ success. Our most recent Business Survivability Survey shows that four out of five Rise lending clients are still operating a business five years after receiving a Rise loan. 

Vision for Growth

Last year, we successfully completed a three-year Strategic Plan, achieving all goals. This milestone reflects the strength of our mission, our team’s dedication, and the growing impact of our work. In 2025, we will reach another pivotal moment: the installation of a new CEO—an innovative and strategic leader who will guide Rise into its next phase of growth and sustainability. With a strong foundation in place, we are now focused on expanding our impact, strengthening partnerships, and deepening program reach to meet increasing demand. Rise is poised to excel: 
•	Canadians’ mental health continues to be negatively impacted by the current socioeconomic environment.
•	Self-employment and entrepreneurship rates are increasing. 
•	Demand for Rise programs is at an all-time high. 

To meet the growing demand for our services, the board has adopted a bold growth plan. Over the next five years, we will triple the loan volume of our Small Business Lending Program to 300 loans per year. To achieve this ambitious goal, we will strengthen our operational capacity and build sustainable revenue through philanthropy and impact investment. This strategic expansion will ensure that more individuals with mental health and addiction challenges have access to the resources they need to succeed as entrepreneurs.

Help Shape the Future of Rise

We are seeking passionate and diverse board candidates from across Canada who are committed to mental health and entrepreneurship. As a Board Director, you will help to guide Rise’s strategic growth and ensure we achieve our goals. Directors are ambassadors for Rise, acting in the organization's long-term best interests and bringing broad knowledge, diverse perspectives, and willingness to learn. There are three board committees offering multiple opportunities to contribute:
•	Finance, Audit & Risk
•	Governance
•	Fundraising

The ideal candidate will bring the following to the Rise board: 
•	Financial acumen, ideally including impact investment experience
•	Strong networks and connections that can support Rise’s programs and operations
•	Fundraising expertise
•	Experience serving on a not-for-profit or charitable board

Who We’re Looking For

Board Directors serve a three-year term, with the opportunity for re-election for up to three consecutive terms. Join us in expanding Rise’s impact and empowering more Canadians with mental health and addiction challenges.

Time Requirements

•	4 Board meetings a year (2 hrs. per meeting), plus pre-reading.
•	3 to 4 Committee meetings a year (1.5 hrs. per meeting), plus pre-reading; each Director must serve on at least one committee.
•	Occasional conference calls, ad hoc working groups, or auxiliary board meetings (30 to 60 minutes).
•	Attendance and engagement with Rise events, including the Rotman Family Entrepreneurship Awards, the annual Rise gala and Rise Holiday Marketplace. 

Qualifications

The following are considered key qualifications:
•	At least eighteen (18) years of age.
•	Availability of sufficient time to devote to Board duties.
•	Commitment to learning about the community and the field in which Rise operates.
•	Capacity to contribute significantly to the organization’s vision, mission and strategic direction.


Application

This position is open to candidates from across Canada. Rise is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within our leadership. We actively seek candidates who bring unique perspectives, champion equity and embody our dedication to creating a boardroom that mirrors the richness of our diverse stakeholders. Interested individuals should complete an application here (https://form.jotform.com/203215298923962).