First Nations and Métis Consultation Participation Fund

The Province recognizes and fully appreciates that First Nations and Métis may require assistance to meaningfully engage in government initiated consultation activities. Through the First Nations and Métis Consultation Participation Fund, the Ministry of First Nations and Métis Relations provides support to provincial, regional and community level First Nations and Métis organizations so that they have the capacity to cooperate and consult with government on policies, programs and plans that may adversely impact their interests and rights.

The Ministry's budget for the Fund increased by 50% in the 2008-09 fiscal year, for a total $3 million dollars to assist First Nation and Métis participate in meaningful consultation with the government. Examples of consultations that could be funded include some licensing and permitting activities on Provincial Crown lands where a Treaty or Aboriginal right may be adversely affected and policy reviews that may impact on a Treaty or Aboriginal right.

Prior to completing a funding request, applicants are encouraged to read the fund criteria carefully and contact the Ministry's Aboriginal Consultation Branch to ensure applications meet eligibility criteria. Proposed initiatives will be reviewed by government and must meet the fund's criteria.

Although applications will be accepted throughout the year, applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Complete applications can take up to five weeks to be processed after being received.

For more information on applying for funding and on eligibility criteria, see the following: