Fed funds for Indigenous projects
MISSISSAUGA FIRST NATION — The Government of Canada is investing more than $612,000 in Indigenous-led projects that will strengthen food security, advance sustainable forest management, and support wildfire resilience in Mississauga First Nation and across the North Shore.
Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie—Algoma, today announced the funding, provided through Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), which will help communities build on Indigenous knowledge while creating lasting environmental, cultural, and economic benefits.
Through this funding, Mississauga First Nation receives:
- $383,864 from NRCan’s Build and Mobilize Foundational Wildland Fire Knowledge Program to explore how Indigenous fire stewardship contributes to Indigenous food sovereignty and forest management through archaeology, environmental science, and Indigenous methodologies. The project will help expand the knowledge base needed to better understand and apply Indigenous-led approaches to wildfire resilience and ecosystem management.
- $100,000 from AAFC’s Local Food Infrastructure Fund to establish a hydroponic farm, including site preparation, installation, first-year growing materials, and training support. The project will help improve local access to fresh, healthy food while building long-term food security.
- $50,000 from NRCan to develop a strategic plan for forestry and sustainable forest management within the community’s traditional territory. The project supports the federal government’s efforts to strengthen Canada’s forest sector by advancing sustainable resource management and creating long-term opportunities for Indigenous communities.
Additionally, Mamaweswen, The North Shore Tribal Council receives:
- $78,244 from AAFC’s Local Food Infrastructure Fund to support local food infrastructure that will strengthen food access and community resilience across the North Shore.
These investments reflect the Government of Canada’s commitment to working in partnership with Indigenous communities to advance reconciliation while supporting sustainable economic development, environmental stewardship, and stronger local food systems. By investing in Indigenous-led solutions, these projects will help build healthier, more resilient communities throughout the Algoma region.
QUOTES
“Indigenous communities have long been leaders in caring for the land and strengthening local food systems. These investments recognize that leadership while supporting practical, community-driven projects that will improve food security, enhance sustainable forest management, and build resilience to wildland fire. I’m proud to see the Government of Canada partnering with Mississauga First Nation and Mamaweswen to support initiatives that will create lasting environmental, cultural, and economic benefits for communities across our region.”
– Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie—Algoma
“Protecting the safety, health, and economic well-being of communities across Canada is a top priority as we face the ongoing threat of wildfires, especially in Northern Ontario this season. Our government is leading efforts to strengthen wildfire management and reduce wildfire risks in Canada. Today’s announcement will allow us to advance wildfire knowledge, accelerate risk and mitigation strategies and support Indigenous fire stewardship to build resilience and protect Canadian families and homes.”
– The Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
“Our people have stewarded these lands since time immemorial, and these investments recognize the importance of Indigenous knowledge in shaping a more sustainable future. By supporting Indigenous fire stewardship, hydroponic food production, and long-term forest planning, we are strengthening our community’s resilience while creating lasting environmental, cultural, and economic benefits. These initiatives will help build the knowledge, capacity, and partnerships needed to better prepare for the growing challenges facing our forests and communities. We appreciate the Government of Canada’s partnership in helping us advance these important initiatives.”
– Brent Niganobe, Chief of Mississauga First Nation
