Economic Development

Last updated on January 16, 2024

The provincial government is committed to improving the participation of Indigenous people and communities’ in the economy. Government must work in partnership with Indigenous people to identify shared goals, strategic outcomes and progress.

The Province’s policy approach to working in partnership with Indigenous people includes efforts to support and increase Indigenous management and control over programs and services.

Business Support

The Province supports Indigenous entrepreneurs through programs, training and funding that help businesses to thrive and compete in B.C.’s economic climate. Strong Indigenous businesses contribute to a strong B.C. economy.

The B.C. government also supports the Indigenous Business and Investment Council through the BC Jobs Plan. The Indigenous Business and Investment Council focuses on developing strategies to:

  • Increase indigenous participation in the economy
  • Promote economic certainty in the province by encouraging economic growth in Indigenous communities

Building Capacity

  • First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund
    The First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund (FNCEBF) promotes increased Indigenous community participation in the clean energy sector within their asserted traditional territories and treaty areas.
  • Funding Opportunities for Clean Energy Projects
    This document provides an overview of funding opportunities for energy efficiency and clean energy projects led by Local Governments and First Nations in British Columbia..
  • New Relationship Trust
    The New Relationship Trust is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening First Nations in B.C. through capacity building.

Databases

Indigenous Organizations & Services

The Indigenous Organizations & Services Guide provides British Columbians with a comprehensive listing of Indigenous community-based services and organizations, which are mostly not-for-profit and Indigenous operated.

Learn more about the guide

Economic Agreements

B.C., federal government and First Nations negotiate agreements to benefit the economy in First Nations' territories.

Find out about government-to-government agreements

Contact information

Call or email if you have more questions.