Get up to $50,000 in support for Community Energy Plans (CEPs), feasibility studies, community training, or business/negotiation planning to develop clean energy initiatives and opportunities within First Nations communities.

Eligibility criteria

The eligibility criteria for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund grant are as follows:

Applicants must be Indigenous communities in British Columbia falling into one of the following categories:
- A First Nation “band” as defined by the Indian Act (Canada)
- An Indigenous governing body, however organized and established by Indigenous peoples
The proposed project must be located in British Columbia

Who is eligible

Eligible companies for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund grant include:

First Nation "bands" as defined by the Indian Act (Canada)
Indigenous governing bodies established by Indigenous peoples

Eligible expenses

The First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund provides funding for clean energy project feasibility studies, community energy planning, engaging with project proponents, and supporting financially viable clean energy projects with an Energy Purchase Agreement.

Funding for clean energy project feasibility studies
Support for community energy planning
Assistance in engaging with project proponents
Funding for financially viable clean energy projects with an Energy Purchase Agreement

Eligible projects & activities

There are projects and activities eligible for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund grant:

Clean energy project feasibility studies
Community energy planning
Engaging with project proponents
Financial analysis of potential projects
Developing clean energy projects within traditional territories

Eligible geographic areas

There are specific geographic areas mentioned for this grant.

The proposed project must be located in British Columbia.

Evaluation & selection criteria

There are evaluation and selection criteria for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund (FNCEBF) grant:

Projects must align with the FNCEBF funding categories and be located in British Columbia.
Applications will be assessed based on the proposed project's feasibility, community impact, and potential for clean energy development.
Priority will be given to projects that demonstrate strong community engagement, financial viability, and a clear pathway to implementation.
Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria outlined for Indigenous communities in British Columbia.

How to apply

Check if your Indigenous community falls into one of the specified categories.
Ensure the proposed project is located in British Columbia.
Review the funding categories, criteria, and requirements.

Download the appropriate application forms for Capacity Funding or Equity Funding.
Fill out all the required information accurately.
Submit the completed forms by the specified deadline.

The Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation will assess your application.
Wait for the final decision on your funding request.

Documents and links

First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund — Capacity Funding

Apply to this program

First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund Summary

First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund Overview

The First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund (FNCEBF) aims to facilitate Indigenous community participation in the clean energy sector within their traditional territories in British Columbia. The fund provides Capacity and Equity funding as well as revenue sharing agreements with eligible First Nations.

Funding Categories

The FNCEBF offers Capacity Funding for feasibility studies and community energy planning, with a $50,000 limit per applicant, and Equity Funding to support clean energy projects with a maximum grant of $500,000. Additionally, revenue sharing agreements are set up for projects impacting First Nations territories, contributing a portion of rentals to the fund.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be eligible, applicants must be Indigenous communities in BC and submit project proposals within the province. The application process involves completing specific worksheets for each funding category and adhering to the guidelines provided by the FNCEBF.

Benefits and Impact

By providing financial support and resources, the FNCEBF empowers Indigenous communities to engage in sustainable clean energy initiatives, creating economic opportunities and promoting environmental stewardship. The fund enhances collaboration between the B.C. Government and First Nations, fostering mutual benefits and shared responsibilities in the clean energy sector.

Conclusion

The First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund plays a vital role in advancing clean energy projects in British Columbia while honoring Indigenous rights and promoting community-driven development. With its structured funding categories and revenue sharing mechanisms, the FNCEBF paves the way for a more sustainable and inclusive clean energy future in the province.

First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund — Capacity Funding

At a glance

Overview

Eligibility criteria

Who is eligible

Eligible expenses

Eligible projects & activities

Eligible geographic areas

Evaluation & selection criteria

How to apply

Documents and links

First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund — Capacity Funding

First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund Summary

First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund Overview

Funding Categories

Eligibility and Application Process

Benefits and Impact

Conclusion

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