About us

The Gosling Foundation is a private, registered philanthropic foundation. We act as an environmental venture fund, identifying and supporting strategic projects that enhance the capacity of organizations to protect and restore nature. We are driven by our passion to protect birds in particular and the natural environment more broadly. The Foundation is a sustaining member of Environment Funders Canada.

Our history
The Gosling Foundation began in 1977 as the Outdoor Art and Science School. Our initial focus was supporting publications about protecting natural amenities, as well as organizing nature and environmental courses for adults in a number of communities. In 1987, the Foundation partnered with the University of Guelph to create, develop and maintain the Gosling Wildlife Gardens. Over the years, the Outdoor Art and Science School initiated and supported a variety of environmental education and research projects.

In December 2000, our name changed to the Gosling Foundation.

Philip R. Gosling, the foundation’s founder and benefactor, died on December 3, 2025 at the age of 97. Philip was a successful entrepreneur and avid naturalist who created the Gosling Foundation to enhance the appreciation and protection of nature. He practiced “giving while living”. Accordingly the Gosling Foundation will wind down operations in 2026.

Board of Directors

Bob Berry    Bob is a retired partner with Miller Thomson where he practiced law from 1974 to 2014.  He currently is on the boards of the Foundation of Guelph General Hospital and the Gosling Foundation.

Susan Gosling   Susan has a background in plant science and is currently one of Nature Canada’s “Women for Nature”. She inspired the formation of the Gosling Research Institute for Plant Preservation.

Stan Kozak (Chair)  Stan is a retired educator and professional learning facilitator with wide experience in the formal and non-formal education sectors.  He brings considerable leadership and organizing skills to his work with the nature sector.