Welcome to Shared Value Solution's funding and news digest. We hope it finds you well.

Hello everyone and happy June—Indigenous History Month. Over the next few weeks, we will be taking the opportunity to celebrate and recognize the invaluable contributions made daily by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities across our country. Stay tuned for some special posts dedicated to the beauty and wisdom of Indigenous culture.

Today in the Talon, we share news of a free, virtual roundtable discussion on Indigenous-led research and policy responding to climate change, hosted by the Canadian Climate Institute. The link to register is included below. We also include information about the 4th National Indigenous Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum coming up in October—find out more in the Opportunities Round up section of this issue! 

SVS's Jeff Hackett will be partnering with experts in the field of Indigenous Data Sovereignty for an info-packed, free webinar series starting in July. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn, gain practical tools, and participate in discussions about this pressing issue. See below for more info and to register for the first webinar.

Lastly, read on for all the new funding and engagement opportunities available, as well as some fun SVS news.

Happy reading!

SPOTLIGHT ON AN EXCITING OPPORTUNITY

Honouring Indigenous Climate Leadership—a free virtual event hosted by the Canadian Climate Institute

This roundtable discussion will showcase Indigenous-led research and policy responding to climate change.

To amplify and centre Indigenous voices at the cutting edge of climate research and policy, the Canadian Climate Institute, in partnership with the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources, will host a roundtable discussion on June 15 with the authors of three new case studies in their Indigenous Perspectives series. These case studies showcase the work of Indigenous researchers, Knowledge Holders, water protectors, and community members.

The discussion will highlight how Indigenous self-determination and knowledge are integral to designing effective regional, provincial, territorial, and national climate policies.

Moderator: Shianne McKay, Senior Project Manager, Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources

Opening remarks: Rick Smith, President, Canadian Climate Institute.

Speakers: Sandra Lamouche (Bigstone Cree Nation), Patrick Michell (Retired Chief, Kanaka Bar Indian Band), Dr. Emily Dicken (Indigenous scholar, practitioner in Emergency Management), Dr. Lilia Yumagulova (Program Director for the Preparing Our Home Program), Sheri Lysons (Elders and Youth Council Coordinator, Shuswap Nation Tribal Council), Casey Gabriel (Líl̓wat Nation, Volunteer Fire Department), Randy Carpenter (Heiltsuk Emergency Coordinator).

REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE VIRTUAL EVENT.

Indigenous Data Sovereignty Webinar Series

Join SVS's Jeff Hackett, Senior Client Liaison and Business Advisor, along with guest speakers, for this incredible opportunity to learn, gain practical tools and participate in discussions about the pressing issue of Indigenous Data Sovereignty.

The first webinar in the Indigenous Data Sovereignty Series will explore the intersection of Indigenous data sovereignty and geospatial data. Attendees will learn about the importance of Indigenous data governance and self-determination in the context of geospatial data, and how Indigenous Peoples are using geospatial data to advance their own priorities and goals. The featured speakers are experts in the field of Indigenous data sovereignty, and will provide attendees with practical knowledge and resources to implement in their own work. Join us for an informative and engaging discussion on the importance of Indigenous data sovereignty and geospatial data.

Still spots available! Click here to register! 

Indigenous Funding Programs

NATION-WIDE HIGHLIGHTED PROGRAMS

NIB Trust Fund: Application deadline is June 9, 2023, 5:00 P.M. EDT

The NIB Trust Fund accepts applications for funding for programs aimed at education, healing and reconciliation, and cultural knowledge building. The goal of the NIB Trust Fund is to help First Nations and Métis people and communities address the impacts of the Indian residential school system, and to provide resources to create meaningful opportunities that improve the quality of life for First Nations and Métis people.

More info here.

The Indigenous Intellectual Property Program Grant, deadline to apply Aug. 8

The Indigenous Intellectual Property Program (IIPP) grant is designed to support increased engagement in the IP system by Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The grant funds eligible Indigenous organizations to support participation in World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) sessions, small-scale initiatives and projects related to intellectual property (IP), Indigenous Knowledge (IK) and Indigenous Cultural Expressions (ICEs).

The IIPP grant is administered by Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) Canada.

For more info and to apply, follow the link: https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/intellectual-property-strategy/en/indigenous-intellectual-property-program-grant

Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Fund, apply until Aug. 31

The Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Fund supports projects and partnerships that will help prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species.

This fund provides $8.75 million over 5 years to create such partnerships.

Priority will be given to projects to focus on:

• Improving relationships with provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples and key stakeholders
• Involving multiple partners
• Providing Canadians with tools to take action on aquatic invasive species
• Monitoring and prevention of aquatic invasive species

Click here for more info: https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/species-especes/ais-eae/funding-financement/index-eng.html

Hudson's Bay Foundation and the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund Announce the Opening of Applications for Oshki Wupoowane | The Blanket Fund

Through two grant streams, The Blanket Fund will provide support for Indigenous cultural, artistic, and educational activities. Indigenous People, as well as Indigenous-led initiatives and organizations in Canada, are eligible. More information here. 

CREation Community Grants Program—apply by June 15!

CREation is a multi-level funding program that supports strengths-based, community-focused and youth-led projects taking place in communities across Canada. Grassroot youth groups/collectives (Indigenous youth ages 15 to 29) are eligible to apply for funding to support community programs and projects while receiving innovative mentorship, training, and capacity-building opportunities. Funding will be provided to projects/groups that seek to create impactful community change and increase the wellness, resiliency, and engagement of Indigenous youth.

This program aims to support Indigenous youth to take ownership over the wellness of their peers and community.

More information here.

WWF-Canada Announces New Fund for Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas

The WWF will fund grants and contracts between $50,000 to $150,000 per year for up to three years to support Indigenous communities and organizations as they consider, establish, or maintain IPCAs.

IPCAs are defined and managed by Indigenous communities, and stewarded through Indigenous laws and knowledge systems. In the wake of the COP15 United Nations biodiversity summit, support for IPCAs will be increasingly important, as countries strive to protect 30 percent of the planet while upholding the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

For more information, contact:

• Rebecca Spring, senior communications manager: rspring@wwfcanada.org
• Tina Knezevic, communications specialist: tknezevic@wwfcanada.org
• Laurence Cayer-Desrosiers, manager, communications (French language inquiries): lcdesrosiers@wwfcanada.org

NORTHERN CANADA FUNDING:

Canadian Internet Registration Authority (CIRA) grant for Infrastructure, Online Safety, and Policy Engagement

CIRA’s grants fund community-led internet projects to build a resilient, trusted, and secure internet for all Canadians. CIRA aims to increase the number of Canadians who have access to a high-quality and high-performing internet. 

Through our grants, we fund community-led connectivity research, network planning, and solutions. Infrastructure solutions that CIRA will consider funding with grants must be community-led and community-owned, contributing to long-term community development.

More information here. 

WESTERN CANADA FUNDING: 

Indigenous Cannabis Business Fund 

Indigenous Services Canada supporting First Nations recovery from Hurricane Fiona as part of federal government response

Four million dollars has been made immediately available through the Emergency Management Assistance Program to address recovery efforts and various needs and expenses identified by First Nations communities. Read more.

MANITOBA-SPECIFIC FUNDING

Manitoba government provides funding to protect fish and wildlife

The Manitoba government is helping protect the province’s natural resources by awarding over $1 million in funding for 35 fish and wildlife improvement projects from the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund, Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Greg Nesbitt announced.

See https://www.watercanada.net/manitoba-government-funding-protect-fish-wildlife/

ONTARIO-SPECIFIC FUNDING

The Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (the Agency) invites the public and Indigenous groups to comment on the draft Terms of Reference for the Rouge National Urban Park Study.

The study will look at the potential effects of development projects adjacent to the Rouge National Urban Park located in the Greater Toronto Area. The goal is to understand the potential effects, including cumulative effects, of past, ongoing, and potential future development projects on the integrity of the Rouge National Urban Park and its management objectives. 

More information here. 

Participant Funding Available: Marmora Clean Energy Hub Project, due June 26, 2023

Funding provided by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada is now available to help the public and Indigenous Peoples participate in the impact assessment process for the proposed Marmora Clean Energy Hub Project, a new pumped storage and hydroelectric generating facility located in the municipality of Marmora and Lake, Ontario.

More information here. 

Opportunities Round-Up: 

• • The 4th National Indigenous Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum 

    NIFI will be hosting the Fourth National Indigenous Fisheries & Aquaculture Forum (NAFF IV) in Nanaimo, BC, from October 16 to 19, 2023. Influential leaders across Indigenous fisheries and aquaculture, industry, and government will be present across this multi-day event highlighting innovation in industry, emerging markets, government programming, the evolution of aquaculture, and more. More information here.

  • Grants available for Emergency Response and Recovery for small Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs in Central Interior BC. The program provides a monetary contribution to assist clients, Indigenous-owned businesses, entrepreneurs, and First Nation communities who have experienced business disruption and financial loss due to the 2021 BC floods. Applications will be accepted until the BC Emergent Response and Recovery Grant fund is fully allocated.

  • The Ontario Biodiversity Council is renewing its Ontario’s Biodiversity Strategy and is seeking public input. More information here. 

  • Registration open for youth canoe trip from Peterborough to Curve Lake First Nation.  More information here. 

  • Micro-Loan Fund Available for Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs 
    The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association and participating Aboriginal Financial Institutions (AFIs) are pleased to announce the establishment of a new $5-million Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund.
    AFIs across the country are now delivering the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund on behalf of Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women entrepreneurs from across the country are now able to access loans up to $50,000 to start or grow their business.

• • Clean Energy in Indigenous, Rural, and Remote Communities. Environment and Climate Change Canada has announced an additional $300 million for clean energy projects. This funding supports projects that help advance Indigenous-led climate action, support local economic development, and create skilled jobs while reducing pollution and improving air quality.  There is no deadline to apply.

    
    

  • Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities. The Government of Canada is providing $103.8 million over 5 years to assist First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities with implementing and developing Indigenous-designed community safety projects. There are several activities eligible for this funding, including initiatives that recognize the importance of Traditional Knowledge and practices in community safety and well-being.  There is no deadline for this funding.

    
    
  • Assistance to be Offered to Residents of Mud Lake for Relocation

    Assistance is being extended as a result of previous and potential flooding events which have been an ongoing concern for some residents. The decision to relocate or remain in the community will be up to each household. The amount of financial assistance payable to Permanent Residential Property Owners will be determined by the number of permanent residents living in the household. Residents who wish to discuss relocation assistance can contact Jacob Kimball, Manager of Legislation, at jacobkimball@gov.nl.ca or 709-729-5473 for further information.

• • The Southern Chiefs' Organization Launches New Survey Seeking Citizen Input on Reforming Justice System 
    The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) has launched a new online survey with the goal of seeking input that will assist the SCO in advocating for the creation of an effective, equitable, and safe justice system from a First Nations perspective. 
    The survey is the latest tool, part of SCO’s overall First Nations Justice Strategy, which includes a focus on restorative justice. SCO’s Restorative Justice Program serves several First Nations and has dedicated Community Justice Workers in six communities—Bloodvein, Long Plain, O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi, Pinaymootang, Sagkeeng, and Sandy Bay First Nations. The program also serves Brokenhead, Dakota Tipi, Dauphin River, Ebb and Flow, Lake Manitoba, Lake St. Martin, Little Saskatchewan, Skownan, and beyond. 
    You can find the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SCO-IJS
    
    
  • United Brotherhood of Carpenters Canadian District Receives $37 Million to Support Employers Hiring First-Year Apprentices 
    This program will fund assist Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to hire new, first-year apprentices in the skilled trades and provide extra support for employers to assist apprentices from equity deserving groups. 
    Apprenticeships offer a great way to get the hands-on work experience needed to pursue a career in the skilled trades, and small business plays a fundamental role in Canada’s apprenticeship system. 

    Many SMEs do not have the resources to offer apprenticeship training opportunities. In an effort to change this situation, Rowe and the UBC Canadian District have launched a two-year, $37-million program funded by the government of Canada’s Apprenticeship Service to provide support to SMEs in Canadian construction and manufacturing “Red Seal” trades to help them to hire new, first-year apprentices needing a leg-up to begin lucrative careers in the well-respected skilled trades. 
    In addition to financial supports, the program provides assistance to help employers navigate the apprenticeship system, onboard new apprentices, and set up the appropriate workplace training via a digital toolkit that can be found on their website at ubc-asp.ca.

We're Hiring!

Intermediate Environmental Consultant, Project Manager

Are you looking to do meaningful work with your BSc, Masters, or PhD in Natural Resource Management, Water Resources Management, Environmental Planning, Indigenous Studies, Environmental Studies or Political Science? We are looking for a candidate with 5+ years experience with federal and provincial environmental/impact assessments and project management, as well as someone with skills and experience working in cross-cultural settings, preferably with First Nations, Métis, or Inuit communities.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you! 

Click here to learn more and apply for this position.

SVS News

Welcome to SVS, Alley Amos! Alley has joined our Environmental Science team as a Project Coordinator and Environmental Scientist and we are thrilled to have her on our team!

Alley holds a Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management (B.BRM) degree in Environmental Management and a Master of Environmental Science (MES) degree from the University of Guelph where she specialized in weaving knowledge systems, as well as ecological risk assessment and toxicology.

Read more about Alley here: https://sharedvaluesolutions.com/alley-amos-mes/

Indigenous Centre for Cumulative Effects (ICCE) Conference

We were thrilled to be an exhibitor at this years ICCE Conference in Ottawa.  What a great opportunity to meet and talk with so many.  This year's theme was 'Sharing Knowledge to Take Action'.

Sharing knowledge is one of our core values here at SVS and it is always an honour to be able to share what we have learned over the past 10 years, working alongside Nations on the developments that are impacting their lands and waters.

SVS eBooks for Download: Collect Them All!

Check out our collection of informative eBooks that are available for free download:

• Protecting What Matters: Environmental Monitoring Ideas Bundle for Indigenous Nations
• Channeling the Wisdom of Indigenous Knowledge 
• Pandemic-Inspired Research Innovations
• Indigenous Planning Cheat Sheet
• Indigenous Business and the Resource Sector
• Indigenous Planning Starter Kit
• Indigenous Guardians and Development
• GIS Intro Guide: Harnessing the Power of Maps
• A Lands and Consultation Department Guidebook
• Planning Starter Kit

Download our eBooks here

About Us: Shared Value Solutions

We are a Canadian B Corp, and we assist Indigenous Nations with support throughout regulatory processes surrounding major development projects like mines, hydroelectric facilities, transmission lines, highway expansions, oil and gas pipelines, natural resource transport applications, and nuclear power. 

We have deep context and experience behind the recommendations we provide, having worked for our clients on almost every major project in Canada over the last 10 years. For us, it’s all about building long-term relationships with our clients. We want to get to know you and what you want to do so we can help you move your plans forward. 

Core Services:

• Impact Benefit Agreement Negotiation Support 
• Technical Reviews and Regulatory Process Support 
• Community and Economic Development Planning 
• Indigenous Knowledge and Land Use Studies 
• Environmental Monitoring 
• Guardians Program Development 
• Climate Change Readiness 
• GIS and Mapping 
• and a whole lot more...www.sharedvaluesolutions.com