Open
Source verified July 7, 2026
Nation Building
Funding for BC Nation-building initiatives
Latest source updateLast Update: July 7, 2026Latest change: The Nation Building page now shows a live application link, and the top-of-page eligibility summary was removed.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: July 7, 2026
Latest change: The Nation Building page now shows a live application link, and the top-of-page eligibility summary was removed.
Nation Building application access updated
The Nation Building grant page now shows a live application link at grants.newrelationshiptrust.ca/s/ instead of the previous Application Closed state. The top-of-page eligibility summary was also removed, changing what applicants can see about who can apply before starting the process. The application window still shows Open May 15, 2026 and Close When funds are exhausted or by December 1, 2026, and the contact email remains nationbuilding@nrtf.ca.
Funding available
$ 120,000
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
British Columbia, Canada
Overview
The Nation Building program provides up to $60,000 for a 1-year project or up to $120,000 for a 2-year project. It supports nation-building activities that strengthen governance, institutional capacity, and community resilience for BC First Nations and Tribal Councils.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Develop strategic partnerships
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 120,000 $
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- British Columbia
Legal structures
- Non-profit
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
- All the groups
Revenue structures
- 100% donations / grants
Scope
- Provincial
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Projects that strengthen institutional, governance, and community capacity
- Projects that support self-determination, resiliency, and sovereignty
- Planning and strategy work related to governance, land use, community development, climate action, and economic development
- Policy, legal framework, and digital engagement initiatives
Documents Needed
- Completed online application form
- Supporting information about the project concept
- Any required quotes for consulting or contractor costs of $15,000 or more
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- BC First Nations
- BC Tribal Councils
- Development corporations or organizations wholly owned and operated by a BC First Nation
Eligible expenses
- Professional, legal, technical, and consulting fees
- Community engagement costs
- Supplies, materials, and equipment
- Capital materials and software acquisition
- Capacity development, training, mentorship, and knowledge sharing related to the project
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Existing administration and overhead costs not directly tied to the project
- Existing staff wages, salaries, top-ups, and honorariums to employees
- Capital expenditures not directly related to the project
Eligible geographic areas
- British Columbia
Selection criteria
- Fit with the nation-building concept or idea
- Organization eligibility
- Project eligibility
- Application completeness
- Strength of the project’s contribution to governance, capacity, resilience, or sovereignty
How to apply
- Submit the application through the NRT Grant Portal.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are checked upon submission for organization eligibility, project eligibility, completeness, and fit with the nation-building concept.
- Applicants can expect a funding decision within up to 2 weeks after submitting a fully complete application.
Additional information
- Applicants are encouraged to contact the Program Specialist before applying if they want to confirm project eligibility.
- The application is submitted through the NRT Grant Portal.
- A final report template is available after project completion.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Nation Building Program
What is the Nation Building?
The Nation Building program provides up to $60,000 for a 1-year project or up to $120,000 for a 2-year project. It supports nation-building activities that strengthen governance, institutional capacity, and community resilience for BC First Nations and Tribal Councils.
How much funding can be received?
Nation Building Funds up to $120,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Nation Building program?
To be eligible for the Nation Building program, you must:
BC First Nations, Tribal Councils, or wholly owned development organizations
Project must support nation-building priorities
Project must strengthen governance or community capacity
What expenses are eligible under Nation Building?
Projects that strengthen institutional, governance, and community capacity
Projects that support self-determination, resiliency, and sovereignty
Planning and strategy work related to governance, land use, community development, climate action, and economic development
Policy, legal framework, and digital engagement initiatives
Who can I contact for more information about the Nation Building?
You can contact New Relationship Trust (NRT) by email at nationbuilding@nrtf.ca or by phone at none.
Where is the Nation Building available?
The Nation Building program is available the province of British Columbia.
Who are the financial supporters of the Nation Building?
Nation Building is funded by New Relationship Trust (NRT)