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ICAN Launches Grow Fund

ICAN is proud to announce the launch of the ICAN Grow Fund, a transformative initiative designed to address financial barriers and create pathways for empowerment and inclusion for First Nations peoples. “The fund will enable ICAN to invest in groundbreaking projects, develop innovative programs, and expand partnerships that foster sustainable economic growth,” said ICAN CEO, Aaron Davis.

The ICAN Grow Fund

The ICAN Grow Fund is fueled entirely by donations, with 100% of contributions sustainably invested to create real, measurable change. The fund focuses on:

  • Research: Uncovering and addressing financial barriers faced by First Nations People.
  • Program Development: Crafting innovative solutions that meet community needs.
  • Capacity Building: Strengthening governance and leadership for impactful work.
  • Partnership Expansion: Driving collaboration for sustainable growth.

 “The fund provides a direct avenue for supporters to contribute to initiatives that empower First Nations people to take control of their financial futures,” Mr Davis explained. 

The First Initiative: ID and Banking in Prison Project

The ICAN Grow Fund’s inaugural project, the ID and Banking in Prison Project, addresses the critical need for identification to support financial and social inclusion among vulnerable men in custody at Lotus Glen Correctional Centre (LGCC) in Far North Queensland.

In partnership with Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) and Lives Lived Well – CREST Re-entry Services, ICAN will fund approximately 700 Adult Photo ID applications over two years. This project aims to reduce barriers to essential services such as banking, housing, healthcare, and employment by providing primary identification to First Nations men in custody.

Why Identification Matters

A lack of proper identification often prevents individuals from accessing vital services, exacerbating financial and social exclusion. This issue disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including those in custody. Research will highlight those equipping prisoners with necessary identification and facilitating access to banking services is critical for successful reintegration and reducing recidivism.

Highlighting the urgency of the project, ICAN prison Project Manager, Sharon Edwards said, “ICAN partnered with LGCC Programs staff to undertake a comprehensive banking and ID audit over three months. The results were telling, with 70% of respondents stating that they needed a photo ID, and 19% stating that they didn’t have a bank account or had lost access to one.”

“Eighty-three percent (83%) of men coming into the prison identified as First Nations,” said Ms Edwards. “Many of these men originated from regional and remote communities across Far North Queensland, where access to banking and transport (TMR – ID) services are limited.”

Project Methodology

The project involves a streamlined process that leverages a Memorandum of Understanding between QCS and TMR, allowing QCS-issued ID to support applications. CREST and ICAN staff will assist prisoners with the application process, addressing literacy barriers and financial constraints.

This initiative will:

  • Provide 700 vulnerable men with TMR-issued Adult Photo IDs.
  • Enable access to essential banking and financial services.
  • Collect quantitative and qualitative data to inform future initiatives.

Expected Impact

ICAN will engage Dr Heron Loban to produce an independent Impact Report that will demonstrate the project’s success and identify opportunities for scaling. Deliverables include:

  • Enhanced financial and social inclusion for men in custody.
  • Reduced barriers to reintegration post-release.
  • Increased collaboration among ICAN, QCS, and CREST for long-term solutions.

Join the Movement

The ICAN Grow Fund is a bold step toward creating lasting change. By investing in projects like the ID and Banking in Prison Project, we can help break down barriers, empower individuals, and drive sustainable economic growth for First Nations People. Please contribute to the ICAN Grow Fund today, together we can grow a brighter future for all.