Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Framework

The Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Framework provides for indigenous opportunities in the natural resource sector by responding to a community's interest and needs, through collaboration and partnerships.

The principles, goals, objectives and economic development pathway found in the Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Framework are the result of engagement and collaboration with many Indigenous Nations across the province, which began in 2016. As we continue to work with Indigenous Nations on forest bioeconomy opportunities, we will continue to improve and refine this Framework. 

This Framework was used as the foundation for developing the Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Program, which offers funding to support Indigenous communities, governing bodies, or enterprises with projects in B.C. that fall within the scope of the forest bioeconomy.

Principles of the Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Program

The Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy is guided by six principles:

1. Support is provided in addition to, and independent of, negotiated treaty or non-treaty agreements
2. Supports reconciliation objectives and constitutional and historic obligations
3. Recognizes and prioritizes Indigenous values, traditions, and knowledge
4. Supports Indigenous community and/or Indigenous business projects designed to meet community needs while  supporting regional economic development opportunities
5. Supports collaboration with industry and business, as well as across ministries and agencies
6. Considers and supports Indigenous community capacity development.