By Troy Gillard

$2.6 million

Federal funding for Indigenous participation in natural resources economy

Mar 19, 2021 | 11:12 AM

The federal government on Thursday announced $2.6 million in funding for the First Nations Major Projects Coalition, as well as $1 million in funding for the First Nations Climate Initiative.

The government says these initiatives will increase Indigenous participation in the natural resources economy by developing collaborative relationships between industry and government, increasing certainty around First Nations participation in major project development and advancing meaningful engagement.

The First Nations Major Projects Coalition examines how to facilitate Indigenous ownership of major resource projects and how to improve environmental practices while providing support to Indigenous communities to undertake natural resource projects.

The First Nations Climate Initiative will develop climate change mitigation policies that simultaneously increase Canada’s efforts in addressing climate change and enhance First Nations’ capacity to achieve self-determination through participation in natural resource projects.

Both initiatives received funding through the Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships (INRP) program, which provides support to Indigenous communities and organizations in British Columbia and Alberta to increase their participation in economic opportunities related to oil and gas infrastructure development.

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Natural Resources Canada is currently accepting applications for the INRP. For details on how to apply to the program and submit a project proposal, eligibility requirements and assessment criteria, visit the INRP website.

“Both the First Nations Major Projects Coalition and the First Nations Climate Initiative will help Indigenous communities respond to opportunities and create economic benefits,” said Seamus O’Regan Jr., Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources.

“The First Nations Major Projects Coalition provides support to First Nations in making informed business decisions concerning their participation in major projects. Our services are helping to fill a critical capacity gap faced by many First Nations, and this funding will ensure that we can continue to meet the needs of our members,” said Chief Sharleen Gale, Chair of First Nations Major Projects Coalition.