Open
Indigenous Pathfinder Service
AAFC support for Indigenous agriculture
Last Update: April 9, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : July 9, 2024
Location
Canada
Overview
A free AAFC advisory service for Indigenous-led agriculture and agri-food activities. It helps users navigate programs, referrals, and next steps to start or expand their work.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Increase production or service capacity
- Strengthen organizational capacity
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : July 9, 2024
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Non-profit
- Sole proprietorship
- Public or Parapublic institution
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Economic, Social and Community Development
Target groups
- Indigenous peoples
- Business owners / entrepreneurs
- Nonprofits / charities
Revenue structures
- All structures
Scope
- National
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Starting agriculture or agri-food activities.
- Expanding agriculture or agri-food activities.
- Getting advice on AAFC programs and services.
- Receiving referrals to AAFC experts and other federal support.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- First Nations individuals and organizations.
- Métis individuals and organizations.
- Inuit individuals and organizations.
- Businesses and non-profit associations.
How to apply
1
Initial Contact
- Contact the Indigenous Pathfinder service by phone, fax, mail, or email using the provided contact details.
- Discuss your project idea or plan with an AAFC advisor to determine initial eligibility and potential next steps.
2
Receive Guidance
- Engage with the AAFC advisor to understand the relevant AAFC funding programs and services applicable to your project.
- Get referred to the appropriate AAFC expert if necessary for specialized advice or support.
- Request referrals to other federal support programs that may align with your project objectives.
3
Prepare Application
- Utilize the information provided by the AAFC advisor to compile and complete a comprehensive grant application.
- Include all necessary documentation and details as advised to strengthen your application.
4
Submit Application
- Follow the specific application submission instructions provided by the AAFC advisor or the respective funding program.
- Ensure all components of the application are complete and submitted before relevant deadlines.
5
Progress Monitoring
- Stay in touch with your AAFC advisor to monitor the status of your application.
- Receive ongoing support and guidance throughout the application review process.
Additional information
- AAFC advisors can refer applicants to the right expert.
- The service can help connect users to other federal support.
- Applicants may also use AgPal and the list of programs accepting applications.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Indigenous Pathfinder Service Program
What is the Indigenous Pathfinder Service?
A free AAFC advisory service for Indigenous-led agriculture and agri-food activities. It helps users navigate programs, referrals, and next steps to start or expand their work.
Who is eligible for the Indigenous Pathfinder Service program?
To be eligible for the Indigenous Pathfinder Service program, you must:
First Nations, Métis, or Inuit applicants.
Businesses, organizations, and non-profits.
What expenses are eligible under Indigenous Pathfinder Service?
Starting agriculture or agri-food activities.
Expanding agriculture or agri-food activities.
Getting advice on AAFC programs and services.
Receiving referrals to AAFC experts and other federal support.
Who can I contact for more information about the Indigenous Pathfinder Service?
You can contact Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) by email at aafc.indigenouspathfinder-explorateurautochtone.aac@agr.gc.ca or by phone at 1-866-367-8506.
Where is the Indigenous Pathfinder Service available?
The Indigenous Pathfinder Service program is available across Canada.
Is the Indigenous Pathfinder Service a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Indigenous Pathfinder Service is a Other Support
Who are the financial supporters of the Indigenous Pathfinder Service?
Indigenous Pathfinder Service is funded by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC)