Canada's federal government is encouraging Indigenous organisations and their partners to apply for funding to support engagement in critical minerals and clean energy infrastructure projects.
West Central Oline reports that Canadian Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson announced on October 6 the launch of the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) Indigenous Grants stream, which will provide up to $3 million (AUD3.29million) in total funding.
Individual grants can reach $150,000, with up to $200,000 available for initiatives led by or benefiting Indigenous organisations in northern or remote communities.
"The funding supports Indigenous engagement and participation in key critical minerals infrastructure projects, positioning Canada as a global leader in sustainably sourced minerals while creating good jobs and long-term growth for communities," Mr Hodgson said.
The CMIF Indigenous Grants stream was established to provide resources for Canadian Indigenous groups to participate in critical minerals development, including clean energy and transportation infrastructure projects.
Federal Canadian authorities said proposals will be prioritised based on potential benefits to First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, the significance of the associated development impacts, and geographic distribution across Canada.
The initiative is part of Canada's broader $1.5-billion Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund, which aims to "close infrastructure gaps, connect resources to markets, and support the low-carbon transition".
Canadian authorities say Indigenous involvement is "central" to the transition, particularly because many proposed projects are located on traditional territories and treaty lands - similar to the situation in Australia in regards to native title lands.
Eligible activities under the grants must relate to projects that support increased critical minerals production, with initiatives scheduled to run from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2028.
