How much funding can be received?

Receive funding for your clean and efficiency energy projects in Indigenous, rural and remote communities across Canada. Projects should aim to reduce Northern communities' reliance on diesel for heating and electricity.

grant_single_labels|projects

This grant supports the transition to renewable energy in specific northern and indigenous communities in Canada. Companies located in these areas are eligible to apply for funding.

Yukon
Northwest Territories
Nunavut
Nunavik
Nunatsiavut

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$500,000

Yellowknife

Upgrading heating systems in remote schools

$900,000

Inuvik

Implementing biomass heating systems public buildings

$600,000

Iqaluit

Installation of solar panels in indigenous community to reduce diesel dependency

$350,000

Happy Valley-Goose Bay

Hydroelectricity feasibility study and planning

$225,000

Whitehorse

Developing an energy efficiency planning framework

$250,000

Rankin Inlet

Feasibility study for wind turbine installation

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is designed to support northern and Indigenous communities in their transition to renewable energy sources.

Applicants must be from communities located in Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik, or Nunatsiavut.
Projects must aim to reduce reliance on diesel for heating and electricity.
Proposals must involve renewable energy or energy efficiency initiatives, including capacity building and planning.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

This program is designed to support Northern Indigenous communities in Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik, and Nunatsiavut, as they transition to renewable energy sources, thereby reducing their reliance on diesel for heating and electricity. The focus is on enhancing energy security, supporting reconciliation, and promoting self-determination for Indigenous peoples through clean energy initiatives.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

Based on the grant information provided, there are no specific types of companies explicitly mentioned as ineligible for the Northern REACHE program.

However, general ineligibility criteria may apply, such as:

Companies outside of the eligible regions (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik, Nunatsiavut)
Companies not engaged in renewable energy or energy efficiency projects
Companies not meeting the criteria outlined in the application guide

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

This grant supports northern and Indigenous communities in their transition to renewable and sustainable energy sources. The projects focus on reducing reliance on diesel and enhancing local energy security through renewable energy initiatives.

Feasibility and planning of hydroelectricity projects.
Grid interconnection projects to support energy distribution.
Renewable energy capacity building and development.
Energy efficiency project implementation.
Support for community-led clean energy projects.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

The grant covers expenses necessary for the planning and implementation of renewable energy projects and community capacity building initiatives.

Personnel costs related to the planning and research phases of the project.
Costs for feasibility studies and environmental assessments.
Consultation and engagement expenses with local communities.
Materials and equipment required for renewable energy projects.
Travel costs associated with project planning and implementation.
Training and capacity-building activities for community members.
Technical and professional consultant fees.

grant_single_labels|criteria

The Northern REACHE program has evaluation and selection criteria to determine the funding recipients. The criteria focus on the impact of the proposed projects on reducing reliance on diesel, promoting renewable energy sources, and benefiting Indigenous communities.

Impact on reducing reliance on diesel for heating and electricity
Promotion of local renewable energy sources and energy efficiency
Benefits to Indigenous communities and support for sustainable development
Alignment with program objectives and priorities
Feasibility and planning considerations for the proposed projects

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Review Program Information
- Visit the Wah-ila-toos: Funding opportunities page to understand eligibility and project types.
- Ensure your project aligns with the objectives of the Northern REACHE program.
Step 2: Contact for Guidance
- Email aadnc.northernreache.aandc@canada.ca to request an application guide and for any specific queries.
- Engage in any information sessions provided for further understanding.
Step 3: Prepare Application
- Utilize the common application form applicable to any Wah-ila-toos program.
- Compile all necessary documentation, including project plans, budgets, and feasibility studies.
- Incorporate any guidance from the Indigenous Council if applicable to your community.
Step 4: Submit Application
- Submit your application at any time as there is no deadline.
- Ensure all documents are complete and submitted via the appropriate channels mentioned in the application guide.
Step 5: Await Response
- Receive confirmation of receipt of your application.
- Anticipate ongoing communication from the reviewers regarding any additional information required or updates on application status.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

The program offers a single-window initiative to simplify access to clean energy funding, making it easier for Indigenous, rural, and remote communities to apply.
An Indigenous Council will guide the work, ensuring the program aligns with community priorities and Indigenous climate leadership goals.
On-going conversations and information sessions are conducted to improve program delivery.
No application deadline is set, and applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Since its inception, the program has funded 140 projects and invested over $29 million in renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, indicating a strong precedent for similar projects to receive support.
Additional $40.4 million funding is available specifically for feasibility and planning stages of hydroelectricity projects until 2024.

grant_single_labels|contact

aadnc.northernreache.aandc@canada.ca

Apply to this program

Supporting Northern and Indigenous Communities' Transition to Renewable Energy

The Northern REACHE program is dedicated to aiding northern and Indigenous communities in reducing their reliance on diesel by transitioning to renewable and more sustainable energy sources. By investing in clean energy projects, the program aims to foster energy self-sufficiency and environmental well-being in communities across Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik, and Nunatsiavut.

Empowering Communities through Renewable Energy and Sustainability Initiatives

In a historic move to transform the energy landscape in Canada's northern and Indigenous regions, the Northern REACHE program stands at the forefront of the country's clean energy initiatives. Launched under the guidance of the faithfully constructed Wah-ila-toos framework, this program facilitates the shift from traditional diesel energy systems to innovative renewable solutions, leveraging solar, wind, geothermal, hydro, and biomass technologies. Such endeavors not only aim to lower greenhouse gas emissions but also promise enhanced energy security, economic gains, and the promotion of cultural and environmental stewardship within these uniquely positioned communities.

Recently invigorated by a substantial funding injection of $300 million announced in April 2022, alongside a pioneering new single-window service approach, Northern REACHE sets out to simplify access to vital resources for these communities. This aligns with Canada's broader commitment to clean energy transformation, as enshrined in the flagship Wah-ila-toos initiative—a synergistic collaboration harnessing the strengths of several federal departments, including Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC), and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). This cooperative effort underscores a commendable pursuit of energy independence, reconciliation, and self-determination for Indigenous peoples, fortifying the roadmap towards a cleaner future.

Central to this venture is the imperative to replace diesel dependence with localized, renewable energy proliferation. The Northern REACHE program not only funds projects focused on renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency improvements but also invests in capacity building and long-term planning to ensure the lasting impact of these endeavors. By boosting the implementation of renewable technology across various Northern locales—from hydroelectricity feasibility assessments to comprehensive grid interconnection planning—this initiative captures the essential dynamics of participatory engagement and community-driven solutions. As outlined in Budget 2021, a targeted allocation of $40.4 million is now available to support these initial feasibility stages, highlighting the federal commitment to a truly transformative energy landscape by 2030.

Recognizing the need for a more adaptable and inclusive approach, the Wah-ila-toos program introduces structural changes by streamlining application processes and project reporting, thus easing the administrative burden on applicants. This innovation is complemented by ongoing dialogues and information sessions aimed at continuously refining program delivery methods, ensuring alignment with Indigenous climate leadership ideals. A dedicated Indigenous Council further empowers communities through facilitated guidance and governance, emphasizing cultural respect and autonomy.

Since its inception in 2016, the Northern REACHE program has illuminated the path towards sustainable energy futures by funding over 140 projects, channeling more than $29 million into northern and Indigenous lands. Projects range from small-scale solar installations to robust multi-source energy hubs, each designed to harness the natural resources abundant in these regions. These initiatives serve as a testament to the program's ability to nurture innovation and embrace traditional knowledge, thus fostering socio-economic growth and ecological resilience amidst the evolving Northern Canadian environment.

Through a foundation built on community collaboration, transparent governance, and shared vision, the Northern REACHE and Wah-ila-toos programs represent a holistic and sustainable path forward. They radiate potential not just in terms of energy transformation but also as catalysts for broader socio-economic progress, underscoring the intertwined destinies of environmental health and Indigenous welfare. As these initiatives advance, they continue to galvanize hope, driving profound change and signaling a renewed era of autonomy and environmental justice across Canada's northern and Indigenous landscapes.