Toronto: In what could be a boost for First Nation and Métis communities interested in pursuing energy project development, the Ontario government has made funding available in three new programs. The provincial budget of March 25 included $19 million for the New Relationship Fund and a $250 million loan guarantee program to support Aboriginal participation in energy projects. There is also $30 million over four years to support planning and to build capacity for Far North First Nations.
With the approval of the budget there are three new streams that could be used by aboriginal communities interested in energy projects:
1. Enhanced Capacity Building (April 1, 2009 – March 31, 2010) – Up to $75,000 maximum per applicant
2. Economic Development (April 1, 2009 – March 31, 2010) – Up to $75,000 maximum per applicant
3. Skills Training (April 1, 2009 – March 31, 2010) – Up to $75,000 maximum per applicant.
The primary focus of the New Relationship Fund is to build and support consultation capacity at the community level to facilitate consultations relating to lands and resources. It has one program component, Core Consultation Capacity. Applications meeting requirements for Core Consultation Capacity will be funded, the government says. “The fund will help First Nations and Métis develop the skills, relationships, and partnerships to consult with government and/or the private sector on economic opportunities related to lands and resources.” In order to be eligible for funding for the period, April 1, 2009 – March 31, 2010, applications must be postmarked no later than April 30, 2009. Late applications will be considered; however funding will be pro-rated accordingly and will be subject to available funding.
The secondary focus of the fund has three parts as follows:
Enhanced Capacity Funding:
Community projects are often large in scope and require various resources and capabilities not readily available to Aboriginal people or communities. The fund will support projects related to governance and organization building and/or research to support policy and legislative initiatives. Funding is for the period April 1, 2009 - March 31, 2010. Applications received by the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs must be postmarked no later than May 29, 2009. This is a competitive application process.
Economic Development Funding:
Strong business partnerships are essential for successful economic development initiatives. The fund will help Aboriginal communities and organizations develop partnerships that will lead to investments in Aboriginal economic development initiatives. It will also help support community economic development plans and plans for business start-up, expansion, and modernization. Funding is for the period April 1, 2009 – March 31, 2010. Applications received by the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs must be postmarked no later than May 29, 2009. This is a competitive application process.
Skills Training:
With increased interest in development across the province, Aboriginal communities and organizations require skills training to take part. The fund will support technical training of community staff in environmental assessment, land use planning, forestry, mining, etc.
This will better ensure Aboriginal communities are making informed, knowledgeable decisions when it comes to business and development opportunities. Funding is for the period April 1, 2009 – March 31, 2010. Applications received by the Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs must be postmarked no later than May 29, 2009. This is a competitive application process.