Backgrounder: On October 24, 2025, the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs, on behalf of the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced a total investment of $5.44 million for 28 projects in the provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta that will accelerate Indigenous participation and leadership in the sector, create good jobs and promote the use of Canadian wood in green construction. The Indigenous Forestry Initiative (IFI) program seeks to advance reconciliation in the forest sector by supporting Indigenous-identified priorities to accelerate Indigenous awareness, influence, inclusion and leadership. The IFI provides financial support to Indigenous-led activities in the forest sector, such as gathering, developing, using and protecting Indigenous knowledge, science and leadership in forest stewardship. It also funds projects focused on the identification, consideration and pursuit of economic development opportunities in the sector. The investment announced today includes $3.5 million in funding for 26 projects under the IFI.

Government Press Release: Canada backs Indigenous-led growth in Prairie forest sectors