First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund — Equity Funding
At a glance
- Max. $500,000
- Open Date : April 01, 2024
- Closing date : April 30, 2024
- All industries
- Government of British Columbia
Overview
Eligibility criteria
The eligibility criteria for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund grant are:
- 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 established by Indigenous peoples
- The proposed project must be located in British Columbia
Who is eligible
Eligible types of 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
Eligible expenses for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund include 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. The fund provides Capacity Funding and Equity Funding for these initiatives.
- Funding for clean energy project feasibility studies
- Community energy planning support
- Engagement with project proponents
- Financially viable clean energy projects with Energy Purchase Agreements
Eligible projects & activities
There are eligible projects for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund grant:
- Capacity Funding for clean energy project feasibility studies, community energy planning, and engaging with project proponents.
- Equity Funding for financially viable clean energy projects with an Energy Purchase Agreement.
- Revenue Sharing agreements with First Nations impacted by clean energy projects.
Eligible geographic areas
There are eligible geographic areas for this grant in British Columbia.
- A First Nation “band” as defined by the Indian Act (Canada)
- An Indigenous governing body, however organized and established by Indigenous peoples
Evaluation & selection criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund grant. The criteria are used to assess applications and determine successful recipients.
- Demonstrated need for funding and project feasibility
- Alignment with clean energy objectives and priorities
- Potential impact on Indigenous communities and territories
- Financial viability and resource readiness of the project
- Ability to meet all eligibility requirements
- Clarity and completeness of the application submission
How to apply
- Step 1: Review the guidelines and eligibility criteria for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund (FNCEBF) funding.
- Step 2: Determine the funding category your project qualifies for, either Capacity Funding or Equity Funding.
- Step 3: Download and complete the appropriate application form for the chosen funding category.
- Step 4: Ensure all required information and documentation are included in the application.
- Step 5: Submit the completed application by the specified deadline, which is April 30, 2024, for the upcoming intake.
First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund Summary
The First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund (FNCEBF) supports Indigenous communities in British Columbia to engage in the clean energy sector through Capacity funding, Equity funding, and Revenue Sharing agreements with the provincial government.
First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund Overview
The FNCEBF aims to promote Indigenous participation in clean energy projects within their traditional territories. It offers Capacity funding for feasibility studies and community planning, Equity funding for project support, and Revenue Sharing for projects generating provincial resource rents.
Eligible applicants include First Nations bands or governing bodies in BC, with projects located in the province. The fund has specific guidelines for each funding category, including maximum grant amounts and application requirements. Successful projects contribute to sustainable energy development and collaboration between Indigenous communities and the government.
Capacity Funding focuses on supporting clean energy project feasibility studies, community energy planning, and engaging with project proponents. The $50,000 maximum grant allows applicants to assess potential projects and review development opportunities in their territories.
Equity Funding supports financially viable clean energy projects with Energy Purchase Agreements. The maximum grant of $500,000 per applicant enables the development, financing, and construction of sustainable energy initiatives.
Revenue Sharing agreements facilitate direct benefits to First Nations from projects generating provincial resource rents. Eligible projects contribute a percentage of water and land rentals to the FNCEBF, with a portion shared directly with impacted Indigenous communities.
The FNCEBF enhances Indigenous involvement in the clean energy sector, contributing to environmental sustainability and economic development in partnership with the BC government. The fund's initiatives align with the principles of collaborative stewardship, resource management, and Indigenous rights and interests.
