How much funding can be received?

The Indigenous Leadership Fund, as part of the Low Carbon Economy Fund, provides up to $180 million by 2029 to support climate action through Indigenous-owned and led renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating projects. The maximum funding per project is $6 million, aimed at meeting Canada’s 2030 emissions reduction target and advancing Indigenous climate leadership.

grant_single_labels|terms_and_conditions

This grant provides tailored financing modalities for Indigenous-led projects aiming to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency. Funding support is structured to accommodate various project requirements and phases.

Maximum ECCC contribution of $6 million per project.
Funding available up to 2029 to support climate action by Indigenous peoples.
No deadline to apply, allowing for ongoing proposal reviews until funding is fully allocated.
Distinctions-based funding approach accommodating First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and other eligible Indigenous applicants.
Co-funding arrangements requiring projects to be past the concept stage and ready for deployment.

grant_single_labels|projects

The Indigenous Leadership Fund supports projects centered on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating initiatives with Indigenous leadership and ownership. These projects aim to advance Indigenous climate leadership while providing environmental, social, and economic benefits to Indigenous communities.

Implementation of Indigenous-owned and led renewable energy projects.
Development of energy efficiency improvements in Indigenous communities.
Installation of low-carbon heating technologies controlled and operated by Indigenous peoples.

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for the Indigenous Leadership Fund is determined by specific criteria related to the ownership and leadership of the projects.

Projects must be Indigenous-owned and led.
Eligible applicants include Indigenous governments, communities, and organizations.
Projects must incorporate renewable energy, energy efficiency, or low-carbon heating technologies and practices.
Eligible projects must offer broader environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Projects should use proven technologies and practices, generally aligned with a level 8 or above on the Technology Readiness Level Scale.
Proposals must clearly disclose partnerships, ownership, and governance structures if they include non-Indigenous partners.
Projects must be past the concept stage, with planning and pre-feasibility activities completed, and should have secured necessary funding and finalized or near finalization of all agreements and assessments.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

The Indigenous Leadership Fund is open to Indigenous governments, communities, and organizations, with specific funding streams available for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis applicants. Additionally, a designated stream is available for Indigenous entities not included in the three primary distinctions-based funding streams. Eligible entities include:- First Nations governments, communities, and organizations such as band councils and First Nations-owned businesses.- Inuit land claim organizations including Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, The Makivvik Corporation, Nunatsiavut Government, and Inuvialuit Regional Corporation.- Métis governments such as Métis Nation of Ontario, Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, Métis Nation of Alberta, Métis Nation British Columbia, and Manitoba Métis Federation.- Indigenous-owned businesses, Indigenous not-for-profits, Métis Settlements, and Indigenous research or educational institutions under the designated stream.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

This grant supports Indigenous-led projects utilizing renewable energy and low-carbon technologies to reduce emissions and benefit Indigenous communities. It aims to advance climate leadership and address social and economic priorities through sustainable development initiatives.

Implementation of Indigenous-owned renewable energy projects.
Development of energy-efficient systems in Indigenous communities.
Deployment of low-carbon heating technologies in Indigenous settings.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

The Indigenous Leadership Fund targets Indigenous-owned and led projects. The funding supports Indigenous communities in Canada across distinctions-based streams.

First Nations communities throughout Canada.
Communities represented by Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and various Inuit land claim organizations.
Communities recognized by the Métis National Council and affiliated Métis governments.
Other Indigenous communities within Canada not included in the specific streams for First Nations, Inuit, or Métis.

grant_single_labels|criteria

Yes, there are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. Proposals are evaluated based on their eligibility, the readiness of the project for deployment or construction, and comprehensive details on ownership and governance structures, especially for projects involving non-Indigenous partners.

Eligibility in principle for the specific funding stream
Completion of project planning and pre-feasibility activities
Other funding secured or close to being secured
Finalization or near-finalization of partnership agreements
Impact or environmental assessments
Permitting requirements
Power purchase agreements
Transparent and comprehensive information on ownership and governance structure for proposals including non-Indigenous partners

grant_single_labels|register

Step 1: Initial Inquiry
- Contact the Indigenous Leadership Fund team by email at LeadershipAutochtoneFEFEC-IndigenousLeadershipLCEF@ec.gc.ca to express your interest in the fund.
- Request the Eligibility Criteria and Expression of Interest form to determine preliminary eligibility.
Step 2: Expression of Interest Form
- Complete the Expression of Interest form with detailed information about your project.
- Submit the completed form to the fund team via email for evaluation.
Step 3: Receive Application Package
- If your project is deemed eligible in principle, receive an application package from the fund team.
- Review the application package for the necessary documents and requirements.
Step 4: Complete Application
- Prepare a detailed project proposal including project readiness and supporting documents such as partnership agreements, impact assessments, and funding confirmations.
- Ensure all documents adhere to the guidelines provided in the application package.
Step 5: Submit Application
- Submit the complete application package to the Indigenous Leadership Fund as instructed in the application guidelines.
- Ensure all required materials are included and deadlines are adhered to for current open calls.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

The Indigenous Leadership Fund provides significant financial support for climate action initiatives led by Indigenous communities. The program focuses on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating.

Part of Canada's 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan
Up to $32.2 million allocated for the Atlin Hydro Expansion project
Maximum Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) contribution is $6 million per project
Utilizes a distinctions-based approach with funding streams for First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and other eligible Indigenous applicants
Call for proposals open from October 30, 2023, to March 31, 2027, for First Nations
Designated stream proposals open from January 31, 2024, to March 31, 2027
Eligible projects must be past the concept stage and ready for deployment or construction
Applicants encouraged to submit projects that help reduce GHG emissions in 2030 and align with net-zero emissions goals for 2050

grant_single_labels|contact

LeadershipAutochtoneFEFEC-IndigenousLeadershipLCEF@ec.gc.ca

Apply to this program

Empowering Indigenous Communities Through Renewable Energy Initiatives

The Indigenous Leadership Fund is an impactful initiative that allocates up to $180 million by 2029, specifically aimed at supporting Indigenous-led climate action projects. This program promotes sustainability and economic self-reliance by funding projects that implement renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-carbon heating solutions, directly contributing to Canada's climate goals for 2030 and 2050.

Exploring the Indigenous Leadership Fund and Its Distinction-Based Approach

The Indigenous Leadership Fund represents a transformative commitment by the Canadian government to advance Indigenous climate leadership through dedicated financial support. It underscores the critical role Indigenous communities play in driving sustainable practices and achieving significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The fund is distinguished by its tailored, distinctions-based approach, accommodating the unique governance structures and priorities of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. This ensures that the projects funded are not only Indigenous-owned and led but also resonate with the self-determined climate, social, and economic aspirations of these communities.

Through this initiative, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations can pursue large and small-scale energy projects that contribute to reducing carbon footprints while fostering local job creation and economic growth. By setting aside up to $73.9 million specifically for First Nations projects, for example, the fund facilitates the development and deployment of renewable technologies such as solar, wind, and hydro. This targeted funding ensures that projects are implemented by Indigenous businesses and communities, leading to direct and indirect socio-economic benefits in these regions.

The role of collaboration is central to the fund's success. The program emphasizes partnerships between Indigenous communities, governmental bodies, and, where applicable, non-Indigenous partners. Such collaborations not only enhance the expertise and resources available for the projects but also uphold transparency and mutual benefit. The inclusivity and adaptability of the fund are instrumental in addressing the diverse needs across various Indigenous groups, allowing for a customized funding allocation that acknowledges historical and geographical distinctions.

Furthermore, the Indigenous Leadership Fund aligns with Canada's broader climate commitments, including the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan and net-zero emissions by 2050. It leverages proven technologies at high readiness levels, ensuring that projects are viable and capable of delivering lasting impact. As projects proceed past the concept stage, stringent prerequisites such as securing supplementary funding, and finalizing environmental assessments and partnership agreements ensure that funded projects are ready for immediate implementation.

The fund's structured, continuous intake process, particularly within the Inuit and Métis realms, guarantees ongoing access to capital for innovation and development over its active years. This access minimizes disruptions and accelerates the pace at which communities can transition toward greener, more sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, through initiatives like the Atlin Hydro Expansion project, which is among the specific beneficiaries, the program not only reduces emissions but also showcases the scalability and replicability of successful projects to other regions.

By fostering an environment of Indigenous empowerment, the Indigenous Leadership Fund not only supports the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but also champions the principles of environmental stewardship and community resilience. It serves as a crucial vehicle for Indigenous voices and visions in climate action, setting a precedent for future collaborations between Indigenous communities and the federal government in the pursuit of sustainable development goals.