Closed
Source verified June 27, 2026
Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream
Funding for Indigenous-led economic development
Get notified when Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream reopens
Latest source updateLast Update: October 9, 2026Latest change: The intake is now shown as closed, a notice appears for the next intake, and PDF help guidance was added to the application steps.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: October 9, 2026
Latest change: The intake is now shown as closed, a notice appears for the next intake, and PDF help guidance was added to the application steps.
IRI-ES intake closed; guidelines added
The program page now shows the intake as closed and adds a notice that the next intake is expected later, but no opening date is given. The application instructions also gained troubleshooting guidance for fillable PDF forms, with links to a step-by-step guide and PDF form technical support. A new application-guidelines PDF is listed on the related Open Government Alberta pages, so applicant instructions may have been updated there.
Funding available
$ 100,000
Deadline
Unspecified
Location
Alberta, Canada
Overview
Provides up to $100,000 for Indigenous community-led economic development projects. Supports capacity-building and opportunity assessments that improve economic outcomes for Indigenous communities.
Receipt of requests is now closed
Get notified about updates to this grant.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Develop strategic partnerships
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 100,000 $
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Alberta
Legal structures
- Non-profit
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Non-profit candidates
Sector of operation
- Economic, Social and Community Development
Target groups
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- 100% donations / grants
Scope
- Provincial
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Availability timeline
2026
Periods: 3
Activities funded
- Capacity-building projects that strengthen organizational effectiveness
- Opportunity projects that assess the viability of a proposed project
- Economic development planning, governance development, and restructuring
- Feasibility studies, impact assessments, and business plans
Documents Needed
- IRI-ES Application Form, with the Declaration (last page of the Application form) signed and dated by an individual with full legal authority such as CEO, Chairperson, Chief or President
- Evidence of Community Support: Band Council Resolution for a First Nation, Council Resolution for a Metis Settlement, Board Motion for a non-profit Indigenous organization, or Board Resolution for a community-owned company or development corporation
- Application for Electronic Payment form, along with the acceptable banking documents outlined in the form
- One or more cost estimates or quotes with a detailed cost breakdown of professional services if the funding request exceeds $25,000
Official resources
Program guide
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- First Nations
- Metis Settlements General Council and Metis Settlements
- Métis Nation of Alberta
- Aseniwuche Winewak Nation
- Tribal councils and Treaty organizations
- Indigenous not-for-profit organizations
- Friendship Centres
- Indigenous community-owned businesses
Eligible expenses
- Consultant, contractor, and professional service fees
- Honoraria for Elders, Knowledge Keepers, or cultural advisors
- Community engagement costs, including meetings and travel
- Evaluation or reporting costs
- Administrative expenses, up to 10% of the funding request
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Operating costs such as salaries, utilities, rent, phone, and internet
- Studies related to labour market participation and employment
- Capital expenditures and technology purchases
- Start-up costs and contingency costs
- Costs not related to economic development
- Services normally provided without charge
Eligible geographic areas
- Alberta
How to apply
- Step 1: Read the guidelines
- Review the program rules and eligibility requirements.
- Step 2: Complete the application package
- Fill out and sign the application form.
- Prepare the project proposal and supporting materials.
- Include the required proof of community support.
- Step 3: Email the package
- Send the completed application package to IR.Reconciliation@gov.ab.ca.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are first reviewed after the intake deadline.
- Program staff may request additional information if needed.
- Applications are then assessed for eligibility and suitability.
- Applicants receive a final decision by email.
- Successful applicants must sign a formal funding agreement before funding is released.
Additional information
- Applicants must disclose all funding sources in the proposal.
- The program can be combined with other government and industry funding.
- Successful applicants must enter into a formal funding agreement.
- Recipients must report on activities and financial results after approval.
Contacts
Other components of this program
Explore related funding streams and grants that belong to the same program.
- Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Cultural StreamFlexible funding for Indigenous cultural revitalization
Frequently Asked Questions about the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream Program
What is the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream?
Provides up to $100,000 for Indigenous community-led economic development projects. Supports capacity-building and opportunity assessments that improve economic outcomes for Indigenous communities.
How much funding can be received?
Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream Funds up to $100,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream program?
To be eligible for the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream program, you must:
Indigenous communities, organizations, or businesses in Alberta
51% Indigenous ownership or control for joint ventures
Project must show economic and community benefits
What expenses are eligible under Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream?
Capacity-building projects that strengthen organizational effectiveness
Opportunity projects that assess the viability of a proposed project
Economic development planning, governance development, and restructuring
Feasibility studies, impact assessments, and business plans
Who can I contact for more information about the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream?
You can contact Government of Alberta by email at ir.reconciliation@gov.ab.ca.
Where is the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream available?
The Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream program is available the province of Alberta.
Is the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative - Economic Stream is a Grant and Funding