2024-25 Details on transfer payment programs

(S) Contributions related to the Canada Community-Building Fund (Keeping Canada's Economy and Jobs Growing Act)

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017-18

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Community Infrastructure

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: As per the terms and conditions of the First Nations Infrastructure Fund, the Canada Community-Building Fund can be used to fund the Other Community Infrastructure Program.

Expected results: A portion of the Canada Community-Building Fund is allocated to on-reserve First Nations (excluding those in the Territories) on a per capita basis using on-reserve population data. This portion is sent to ISC where it is combined with other funding sources and delivered through the terms and conditions of the First Nation Infrastructure Fund.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2015-16 Evaluation of Education Facilities and Community Infrastructure

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2023-24 Evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations on reserve recipients
• Government
• Academia and public institutions
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: Ongoing collaboration on climate change-related initiatives, including adaptation and mitigation, with the Assembly of First Nations through the Joint Committee on Climate Action.

Contributions for emergency management assistance for activities on reserves

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2019-20

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Emergency Management Assistance

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: ISC works collaboratively with Indigenous Peoples, other federal departments and agencies, provinces, territories, and third-party organizations. Responsibilities include supporting First Nations partners to prepare for, mitigate against, respond to and recover from emergency events that threaten the health, safety, and holistic well-being of on-reserve First Nations and other eligible communities.

Local authorities, third-party organizations, provincial and territorial governments are responsible for emergency management activities within their respective jurisdictions. Section 91(24) of the Constitution Act, 1867 prescribes the legislative authority of the Government of Canada for "Indians, and Lands reserved for Indians". This authority is delegated to the Minister of Indigenous Services Canada. Under section 6 of the Emergency Management Act (2007), each federal minister is responsible for identifying risks that are within or related to his or her area of responsibility and for preparing, maintaining, testing and implementing emergency management plans to mitigate those risks. The department supports on-reserve First Nations partners with the four basic pillars of emergency management: (1) mitigation, (2) preparedness, (3) response and (4) recovery.

The department has, since the early 1970s, managed a framework for promoting and supporting First Nations partners with: emergency preparedness and non-structural mitigation within on-reserve and other eligible communities; emergency response and evacuation during disasters; and remediation of infrastructure and houses after emergencies such as forest fires and floods. The department had specific Treasury Board authority for forest fire suppression (December 15, 1988), which expired in March 2005. This authority enabled the department to provide funding to provinces, bands or other emergency organizations for the delivery of fire suppression services. The authority was replaced by the Emergency Management Assistance Program (EMAP) (November 29, 2004), through which the department makes contributions for emergency management assistance for activities on reserve and other eligible communities. The department also provides financial assistance to First Nations for search and recovery activities based on compassionate grounds. In 2017–18, the Building Back Better Strategy Guide was approved to increase the access and availability to culturally competent response and recovery supports for on-reserve and other eligible First Nations partners.

The most common emergencies affecting First Nations are floods, fires, loss of essential services, severe weather, or failure of community infrastructure (i.e., winter roads, bridges, water sources, housing, etc.) due to natural disaster or accident.

Expected results: The program is looking to increase the percentage of short-term evacuees that have returned to their community within three months, and long-term evacuees that have returned home or have a scheduled date within two years after their evacuation. The department is targeting at least 95% in both accounts by March 2025.

Indigenous Services Canada's Emergency Management Directorate is currently engaged in the development of new performance indicators that extend beyond these immediate parameters. These indicators are being crafted to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to accurately evaluate Indigenous Services Canada's capacity to assist First Nations on reserves in their efforts to prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from emergencies. Through this evaluation process, we anticipate gaining valuable insights into the effectiveness of our emergency management assistance program, ensuring that our efforts not only work locally but also align with global goals for a better and more sustainable future. By aligning our efforts with global sustainability goals, we aim to not only enhance local emergency response capabilities but also contribute to broader initiatives for a more resilient future.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2016-17 Evaluation of the Emergency Management Assistance Program

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of the Emergency Management Assistance Program

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations
• Indigenous Organizations
• Government
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: The Emergency Management Directorate is actively engaged in several collaborative efforts to advance progress towards the creation of multilateral agreements, fostering greater cooperation and coordination in emergency management through a dedicated team that works closely with provinces, territories, and First Nation partners.

Additionally, a steering committee has been established, which includes representatives from ISC, the Assembly of First Nations, First Nation communities and Emergency Management Coordinators. This committee facilitates consultations on the progress made towards implementing the recommendations from the Office of the Auditor General over the next year. This inclusive approach ensures that various partners have a voice in shaping our emergency management practices.

Furthermore, plans to conduct engagement sessions focusing on emergency management transformation are being developed. These sessions will involve First Nation partners to gather valuable insights and feedback. The aim is to adapt EMAP to better suit the evolving needs of the people it serves. These engagement sessions will be vital in ensuring that commitments align with the diverse and evolving requirements of partners.

Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Health Infrastructure Support

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22

Link to departmental results:

• Indigenous Peoples are physically well
• Indigenous Peoples are mentally well
• Indigenous Peoples have access to quality federally funded health services
• Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Health Systems Support
• Community Infrastructure
• Primary Health Care

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Health Infrastructure Support Authority underpins the long-term vision of an integrated health system with greater First Nations and Inuit control by enhancing their capacity to design, manage, deliver and evaluate quality health programs and services. It provides the foundation to support the delivery of programs and services in First Nations communities and for individuals, and to promote innovation and partnerships in health care delivery to better meet the unique health needs of First Nations and Inuit.

The funds are used for planning and management for the delivery of quality health services; planning, design, construction, renovation, repair and operations and maintenance of health facilities; research activities; encouraging Indigenous Peoples to pursue health careers; investments in technologies to modernize health services; and integrating and realigning the governance of existing health services. Health Systems Support Program elements include Community Health Planning, the Health Services Integration Fund, the Health Transformation initiative, British Columbia Tripartite Health Governance, Accreditation, Health Human Resources, and funding for Indigenous-led health surveys. It also includes targeted initiatives, such as the work for distinctions-based Indigenous health legislation and policy approaches and distinctions-based collaboration with Indigenous Peoples to address anti-Indigenous racism in Canada's health systems.

Expected results: The expected results for the 2024-25 to 2026-27 period are to continue supporting First Nations and Inuit capacity-enhancing initiatives to assume greater control over the design, delivery and management of health services and health infrastructure in their communities. This includes continuing to provide resources and supports for First Nations and Inuit to develop and implement their own health services plans and move into more flexible funding arrangements to address community needs and priorities. The program will continue to support First Nations organizations undertaking innovative Health Transformation projects and achieve their goals related to greater governance over health. The program will also support First Nations' capacity for the delivery of health services through continued investment in multi-year capital projects and high priority repairs and renovations, advancing health infrastructure priorities.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2023-24 Cluster Evaluation of Health Infrastructure Support for First Nations
• 2017-18 Evaluation of Health Canada's Role in Supporting British Columbia First Nations Health Authority as a Governance Partner

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of the British Columbia Tripartite Health Governance Agreement

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations and Inuit recipients
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Government
• Academia and public institutions
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: In relation to health infrastructure ISC engages with representatives of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) through the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch's Senior Management Committee, of which the AFN and ITK are members. This is consistent with the engagement protocols which guide the department's collaboration with the AFN and ITK. ISC also engages with ITK on issues related to primary care through the National Inuit Committee on Health and with the AFN through the Chiefs Committee on Health. Collaboration and joint planning also take place at ISC's regional partnership tables, which guide joint decision making on key issues including primary care and health infrastructure.

The successful implementation of services and related projects, as well as policy development to improve the health and the health systems of First Nations and Inuit populations, depends on very close collaboration between the regional offices and Indigenous partners/organizations in communities. In general, engagement with recipients is led by ISC's First Nations and Inuit Health Branch through individual and/or multi-community regular bilateral planning sessions and calls for proposals are discussed and agreed upon.

Further, ISC's Management Operation Plan for Health sector is an important mechanism and a shared decision making tool to outline the health related priorities identified by Indigenous partners through such regular engagement sessions.

ISC also remains committed to continuing to advance the full implementation of Joyce's Principle and ensuring it guides the work for distinctions-based Indigenous health legislation fostering health systems that will respect and ensure the safety and well-being of Indigenous Peoples. ISC will continue to be an active funding and governance partner to the First Nations Health Authority who assumed control over health programs and service delivery in 2013 in British Columbia from the Government of Canada. This work has included negotiating and implementing a renewed 10 year Canada Funding Agreement with the First Nations Health Authority which took effect on April 1, 2023.

Consultations with the First Nations Health Managers Association has contributed to the continued evolution of health planning tools and capacity supports with the delivery of training sessions, development of guidance pieces and partnership building with community health leaders. ISC will continue the collaboration with the First Nations Health Managers Association in the development of health planning tools and training that support Indigenous-led design and delivery of federally funded health services.

Engagement with recipients is led by ISC's regions through individual and/or multi-community regular bilateral planning sessions and calls for proposals are discussed and agreed upon. ISC will continue to work with recipients, who are the First Nations organizations responsible for delivery of digital health/virtual care services within the regions such as the Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Digital Health Advisory and the National Indigenous Information Technology Alliance.

ISC will continue to enhance the community infrastructure program on-reserve by reviewing and updating program policies in collaboration with First Nations.

ISC is engaging Indigenous partners to identify critical infrastructure gaps in Indigenous communities to begin co-developing long-term distinctions-based infrastructure plans.

ISC works collaboratively with the Métis National Council based on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed on December 13, 2022, for the development of a Health Sub-Accord as part of the broader Métis-Canada Accord. The MOU re-affirms ISC's shared commitment to the health and wellness priority that is included in the 2017 Canada-Métis Nation Relationship Accord and enables ISC and the Métis Nation to work towards a 10-year Canada - Métis Nation Health Sub-Accord aimed at improving health outcomes for Métis citizens.

ISC is also currently working collaboratively with the Manitoba Métis Federation on a draft MOU that will guide the development and implementation of a 10-year Red River Métis Community Health and Wellness Bilateral Agreement to support the health priorities identified in the 2017 Canada-Métis Nation Accord.

Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Primary Health Care

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22

Link to departmental results:

• Indigenous Peoples are physically well
• Indigenous Peoples are mentally well
• Indigenous Peoples have access to quality federally funded health services

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• Jordan's Principle and the Inuit Child First Initiative
• Primary Health Care
• Home and Long-Term Care

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Primary Health Care Authority funds a suite of programs, services and strategies provided primarily to First Nations and Inuit individuals, families, and communities living on reserve or in Inuit communities. It encompasses health promotion and disease prevention programs to improve health outcomes and reduce health risks; public health protection, including surveillance, to prevent and/or mitigate human health risks associated with communicable diseases and exposure to environmental hazards; and primary care where individuals are provided diagnostic, curative, rehabilitative, supportive, palliative or end-of-life care, and referral services.

Expected results: For the 2024-25 to 2026-27 period, the expected results are to contribute to improved health outcomes to Indigenous Peoples through the provision of accessible health care services, and to continue to support the delivery of community-based health programs that respond to the needs and priorities of Indigenous partners. Health services are delivered by engaging Indigenous communities in better planned care and through the delivery of efficient, effective and safe healthcare. It is also expected that the healthcare providers in Indigenous communities have the training, tools and support they need to provide primary health care services. The program will continue to provide resources, advice and supports for mitigating public health risks and delivering health promotion activities.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2022-23 Evaluation of Healthy Living
• 2019-20 Evaluation of Home and Community Care
• 2018-19 Case Studies on Jordan's Principle - A Child First Initiative
• 2018-19 Evaluation of Clinical and Client Care
• 2016-17 Evaluation of Health Canada's First Nations and Inuit Health Branch Environmental Public Health Program (2010-2011 to 2014-2015)
• 2016-17 Evaluation of the First Nations and Inuit Mental Wellness Programs (2010-2011 to 2014-2015)
• 2014-15 Evaluation of the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch Communicable Disease Control and Management Programs (2008-2009 to 2013-2014)

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Healthy Child Development Program
• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Environmental Public Health Program
• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Mental Wellness Program
• 2023-24 Evaluation of Jordan's Principle
• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Inuit Child First Initiative
• 2024-25 Cluster Evaluation of the Home and Long Term Care Program
• 2025-26 Evaluation of the Communicable Disease Control and Management Program
• 2025-26 Cluster Evaluation of Primary Health Care
• 2027-28 Evaluation of the Healthy Living Program

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations and Inuit recipients
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Government
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC engages with representatives of the AFN and ITK through the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch-Senior Management Committee, of which the AFN and ITK are members. This is consistent with the engagement protocols which guide the department's collaboration with the AFN and ITK. ISC also engages with ITK on issues related to primary care through the National Inuit Committee on Health and with the AFN through the Chiefs Committee on Health. ISC engages the AFN on environmental public health-related issues in other fora, such as the Strategic Water Management On-Reserve Committee and the Joint Committee on Climate Action. Collaboration and joint planning also take place at regional partnership tables, which guide joint decision making on key issues including primary care. Engagement is also being expanded to include the Métis in Canada, including representatives from the Métis National Council.

Engagement relating to tuberculosis, sexually-transmitted and blood borne infections, and immunizations also take place through ad hoc network meetings or in working group meetings which may be composed of various regional and Indigenous partners to discuss various topics.

ISC's First Nations and Inuit Home and Community Care Program, in partnership with the AFN, is working to respond to the Non Insured Health Benefits Joint Review Calls to Action related to HCC such as transitions in care, hospital discharges, foot care and access to medical supplies and equipment. For home and long-term care, ISC's regional offices have ongoing engagement with recipients to increase the number of block and New Fiscal Relationship funding types. These engagements bolster the First Nations and Inuit design, delivery and evaluation of the Program.

The department works closely with Indigenous partners at national, regional and community levels in the area of Mental Wellness. ISC's efforts are guided by key documents developed by Indigenous partners, namely the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework, Honouring Our Strengths and the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy.

Program reform and vision for a long term and continuing care framework is in co-development with various Indigenous partners. ISC also engages with ITK on issues related to primary care through the National Inuit Committee on Health and on issues related to the Child First Initiative through the Co-Development Steering Committee, and with the AFN through the Chiefs Committee on Health. Collaboration and joint planning also take place at regional partnership tables, which guide joint decision making on key issues including primary care.

Jordan's Principle/ISC continues to meet with the parties to the CHRT Orders working towards a long-term approach. On December 12, 2023, the Caring Society filed a Notice of Motion to the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal. The Government of Canada is carefully reviewing the non-compliance motion and will provide a response to the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal.

ISC continues to engage with national and regional First Nations and Inuit leadership on the design and implementation of the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, which will provide $2 billion over ten years to support distinctions-based, Indigenous-led approaches to increasing access to quality and culturally safe health care. The department will continue to work with these partners to determine a shared approach to reporting on progress.

Contributions for First Nations and Inuit Supplementary Health Benefits

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2019-20

Link to departmental results:

• Indigenous Peoples are physically well
• Indigenous Peoples are mentally well
• Indigenous Peoples have access to quality federally funded health services

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Supplementary Health Benefits

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: ISC's Supplementary Health Benefits (also known as Non-Insured Health Benefits) Program is a national program that provides registered First Nations and recognized Inuit residents in Canada with coverage for a range of medically necessary health related goods and services which are not otherwise available to them through other private plans or provincial or territorial health or social programs. Program benefits include prescription and over-the-counter medications, dental and vision care, medical supplies and equipment, mental health counselling, and transportation to access medically required health services that are not available locally. Some benefits are delivered through contribution agreements with First Nations and Inuit organizations or with the territorial governments in Nunavut and Northwest Territories.

Expected results: ISC will improve client access to the Supplementary Health Benefits Program by continuing to engage with the Assembly of First Nations on a multi-year joint review of the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program, and with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the National Inuit Committee on Health to identify opportunities to improve the delivery of benefits to eligible clients.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2017-18 Evaluation of Supplementary Health Benefits Program (2009-10 to 2014-15)

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2023-24 Evaluation of the Supplementary Health Benefits Program (Non-Insured Health Benefits)

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations and Inuit recipients
• Government
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC engages with representatives from the Assembly of First Nations and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami through the First Nations and Inuit Health Branch's Senior Management Committee. Since 2014, the Program has been working closely with the Assembly of First Nations on a comprehensive joint review of the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program to enhance client access to health benefits and streamline service delivery to be more responsive to First Nation client needs. ISC will continue the joint review this year with the review of the medical transportation benefit. ISC also engages with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami representatives and through the National Inuit Committee on Health to identify shared priorities for the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program.

Contributions for Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative

Start date: 2021-22

End date: 2025-26; Amended to 2026-27 for the Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative (CDWAI)

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22; Amended in 2022-23 to include CDWAI under this authority

Link to departmental result:

• Indigenous Peoples are culturally safe and socially well
• Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Safety and Prevention Services
• Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Pathways Initiative is a five-year initiative starting in 2021-22 which aims to fund services for Indigenous communities, women, children, and families across Canada – including First Nations, Inuit, Métis, urban, and Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual + (2SLGBTQI+) people. Funding recipients provide Indigenous Peoples with community services that are developed and implemented through an Indigenous lens, targeting the specific safety and well-being needs of the communities. The intention of the program is to assist Indigenous individuals and communities to:

• support the development and delivery of culturally relevant and community and organization identity specific safety and well-being initiatives;
• address community safety and well-being needs that support reconciliation, resiliency, and capacity of Indigenous communities and organizations and their members, contribute to and promote a sense of belonging of community members, address intergenerational trauma, address systemic barriers and biases within existing systems, recognize the impact of lived experiences; and
• support Indigenous designed interventions and Indigenous definitions of safe, secure and resilient communities.

The Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative supports 22 First Nation communities across Canada to implement their priorities. Support Teams will continue to identify and engage potential partners. In 2024-25, ISC will work with participating communities at regional and national tables to identify lessons learned from the Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative that could inform program reform initiatives in other areas of ISC and other federal departments.

Expected results: The program will work towards the following outcomes:

• The safety and well-being of Indigenous communities, including women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, is improved. By March 2026, the program will aim to have:
  • 100% of annual funding delivered to support the safety and well-being needs and priorities of Indigenous communities.
  • 90% of recipient communities or organizations reporting that their project has improved community safety and well-being.
• Through the Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative, First Nations have enhanced capacity to plan for the implementation of their priorities. The program will aim to have 100% of participating First Nations with a Community Development Support Plan that reflects community priorities by March 2025.

Beyond these immediate parameters, intermediate outcomes will seek to address barriers to First Nation community development, while ultimate outcomes will seek to allow Indigenous communities to advance their governance capacity. Specified results performance parameters of both intermediate and ultimate outcomes have also been identified (performance indicators, baselines, targets, reporting, etc.)

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: Not applicable, new program

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Not applicable, new program

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of the Family Violence Prevention Program (includes Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative)

General beneficiary groups: First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and organizations

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: The Pathways Initiative plans to engage with funding recipients to understand project impacts and future needs. This feedback and assessment prior to project completion will support ongoing program improvement and future ISC Community Safety and Well-being program development. Given the diversity of projects funded, it is anticipated that engagement would be on an individual project basis.

Regional and National Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative Tables with partners will take place in 2024-25 to discuss program reform and alignment opportunities to better support First Nation service delivery.

Contributions for the purpose of consultation and policy development

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2014-15

Link to departmental result:

• Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination
• Indigenous communities are progressing in their business and economic growth

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports
• Community Economic Development

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The program is intended to be a vehicle for a wide range of engagements between the department and Indigenous Peoples for the development and implementation of departmental policy and programming. Eligible activities investigate, develop, propose, review, inform or consult on policy matters within the mandate of the department. Eligible activities include workshops, studies, meetings, and policy development - all of which relate to and are in support of the department's policies and programming. The funding supports the department as a whole to collaborate with Status Indians, Innu and Inuit on key policy issues.

Expected results: ISC will continue to advance co-development efforts with expert Indigenous organizations on the design and structure of the Indigenous Governance and Capacity program.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2016-17 Evaluation of Governance and Institutions of Government

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2024-25 Evaluation of the Indigenous Governance and Capacity Program
• 2024-25 Evaluation of the Surveys on Indigenous Peoples

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations communities and organizations
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: No planned initiatives to engage applicants and recipients in 2024-25.

Contributions to First Nations for the management of contaminated sites

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Communities and The Environment

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The objective of this contribution program is to ensure the removal of known contamination from National Contaminated Sites Classification System Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 contaminated sites for which a Crown liability has been established and documented.

Class 1 sites are contaminated sites where available information based on assessments indicates that action is required to address existing concerns for public health and safety. Class 2 sites are those sites where available information, based on assessments indicates that there is a high potential for adverse off-site impacts, although threat to human health and the environment (public health and safety) is generally not imminent and action is likely required. Class 3 sites are those sites where available information indicates that the site is currently not a high concern.

The transfer payment plan also includes funding for the First Nations Solid Waste Management Initiative to develop sustainable solid waste management solutions on reserve. Investments in waste management help to protect the environment, reduce potential risks to health and safety, and reduce the number of future contaminated sites.

Expected results: The primary results indicator for the Contaminated Sites On-Reserve Program is the percentage of high risk (Class 1) sites where remediation activities are being undertaken. As of March 2023, 17.6% of high risk sites had remediation occurring. Because this did not meet the 29% target for 2022-23, the target has been reduced from 29% to 20% for 2024-25.

The Contaminated Sites On-Reserve program fell short of its set target in remediating high risk (Class 1) sites due to a confluence of factors. In 2021-22, the expansion of the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan funding eligibility criteria to include Class 2 and 3 sites allowed the Program to address more Community priority sites but limited the program's ability to focus efforts solely on high-risk contaminated sites. The rise in project costs, driven by inflation and supply-chain challenges, and the addition of a significant number of Class 1 sites to the inventory, made the achievement of the remediation target more difficult.

The primary results indicator for the Waste Initiative is the percentage of First Nation communities with adequate solid waste management systems. On March 31, 2023, 40.5% of communities were considered to have adequate systems. This is on track to meet our March 2024 target of 43%. The program is aiming to reach 52% of First Nation communities with adequate solid waste management systems by March 2026, and 65% by March 2028.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2015-16 Evaluation of the Contaminated Sites On-Reserve (South of the 60th Parallel) Program
• 2018-19 Evaluation of Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (horizontal evaluation, led by Environment and Climate Change Canada)
• 2020-21 Evaluation of Solid Waste Management Initiative

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Contaminated Sites On-Reserve (South of the 60th Parallel) Program
• 2023-24 Evaluation of Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (horizontal evaluation, led by Environment and Climate Change Canada)
• 2026-27 Evaluation of the Solid Waste Management Initiative

General beneficiary groups:

• Indigenous recipients
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: Regional officials work directly with First Nation communities to identify, assess and remediate contaminated sites on reserve lands. They also regularly engage First Nation communities to understand their waste management needs and work collaboratively to implement comprehensive waste management solutions. Regional officials remain engaged on waste management projects through to completion which helps facilitate reporting on results.

The Waste Management Initiative has also established an Indigenous-led National Advisory Committee that provides advice on policy development, implementation, and long-term strategies related to the management of waste. Note that the Contaminated Sites on Reserve Program is currently working with Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan on Phase V (2025-2030) renewal, and planned spending will be updated once that process is completed.

Contributions to improve the safety and security of Indigenous women, children, families and 2SLGBTQI+ People

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2019-20

Link to departmental result: Indigenous Peoples are culturally safe and socially well

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Safety and Prevention Services

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Family Violence Prevention Program is intended to fund family violence services responsive to community needs. The primary objective is to support Indigenous women, children, families, and 2SLGBTQI+ people living across Canada with family violence shelter services and transition homes through funding to core operations. The secondary objective is to support family violence prevention activities through funding to Indigenous communities and organizations, as directed within the program's Terms and Conditions. Third, the program supports Métis engagement on assessing shelter needs and community violence prevention activities focused on Métis women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Contribution funding supports Indigenous clients across the country, including First Nations (on and off reserve), Inuit, Métis, Indigenous urban and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Expected results: Planned performance for this transfer payment program are available on GCInfobase under Safety and Prevention Services.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2017-18 Evaluation of Family Violence Prevention

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of the Family Violence Prevention Program (includes Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative)

General beneficiary groups:

• Indigenous recipients
• Government
• Academia and public institutions
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC is actively engaging with a variety of applicants, recipients and Indigenous partners to support ongoing improvements to the program's delivery.

Contributions to Indian bands for registration administration

Start date: 1994

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: To enable Indian Bands or their Tribal Councils to facilitate the administration of the Indian Registration System and maintenance of Band Lists and increase the adoption of the Secure Certificate of Indian Status at the community level. The transfer payments will provide for in-person application support resulting in entitled persons gaining access to benefits, and an up to date and accurate Indian Register for the department.

Expected results: Registration Administrators will continue to verify life events (e.g. births, marriages, deaths, divorces) that are recorded in the Indian Registration System and issuance of the Secure Certificate of Indian Status for the band(s) they represent. Guidance and support will be provided to entitled individuals to complete necessary forms to request a registration or an amendment to their personal information or to obtain a Secure Certificate of Indian Status.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2021-22 Evaluation of Individual Affairs

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2026-27 Evaluation of Individual Affairs

General beneficiary groups: Indigenous recipients

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC is expected to engage Registration Administrators on their level of contribution funding based on the design and delivery of Individual Affairs Programs.

Contributions to provide children, youth, young adults, families and communities with prevention and protection services

Start date: 1991

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23

Link to departmental results: Indigenous Peoples are culturally safe and socially well

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Child and Family Services

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The transfer payment program aims to improve the safety and wellbeing of First Nations children and families by providing funding to support the delivery of holistic and culturally appropriate prevention and protection services. Eligible recipients deliver prevention and protection services for children and families ordinarily resident on reserve or in the Yukon. The program provides funding for First Nations representative services, as well as post-majority support services for youth and young adults aging out of the child welfare system. Services account for First Nations' unique cultural, historical and geographical strengths, needs and circumstances, and are provided in a manner that accounts for the best interest of the child, as defined by First Nations.

Expected results: A reliable performance data collection, analysis and reporting methodology is being developed that will meet the respective needs of First Nations and service providers, the provinces and Yukon, and the department.

Data will be collected using various methods and sources to ensure high-quality well-being indicator data collection and analysis at the First Nation, service provider, regional and national level and to inform best practices and improve federal child welfare policies, procedures, agreements and legislation over time. First Nations and service providers funded by the First Nations Child and Family Services Program will be required to provide the department with only the data required to demonstrate achievement of program outcomes.

Until the methodology is finalized and implemented, data will continue to be collected by First Nations and service providers using various methods and sources and will meet requirements set out in the reporting guide.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2014-15 Enhanced Prevention Approach for the First Nations Child and Family Services Program in Manitoba

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of First Nations Child and Family Services (Reform)

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations and First Nation authorized service providers
• Provincial and Yukon governments
• First Nations Child and Family Services Agencies (including delegated and partially delegated)

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients:

• Ongoing engagement to support a reformed funding methodology based on the Agreement-in-Principle regarding the long-term reform of First Nations child and family services.
• Ongoing negotiations with the parties to the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal complaint to reach a final settlement agreement regarding the long-term reform of First Nations child and family services.
• Ongoing engagement and relationship building with provinces, and Yukon and First Nation partners.

Contributions to support Indigenous governments and institutions, and to build strong governance

(Previously titled "Contributions to supply public services in Indian Government Support and to build strong governance, administrative and accountability systems")

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2023-24

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The involvement of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada and ISC in governance programming is a matter of social policy that includes the devolution of programs and services to First Nations and Inuit governments on a gradual basis. Strong governance and accountability of First Nations and Inuit governments and related institutions are fundamental to the prudent use of funds transferred from the federal government. These objectives are advanced by a series of measures:

• Employee pension and benefits plans to incent recruitment and retention of professional staff;
• The First Nations Fiscal Management Act institutions that provide fiscal services and products to First Nations communities;
• Tribal councils that provide service and program delivery at an aggregated level to communities; and
• Governance capacity development programs that provide support and training in sound governance.

The program terms and conditions provide the framework which current and future department contribution programming can be administered to facilitate capacity development in the First Nations and Inuit elected leadership and entities that administer aggregate services and program delivery on behalf of or to First Nations and Inuit governments and communities.

Expected results: Performance results for this transfer payment program are available on GC Infobase under Indigenous Governance and Capacity Programs, Finances - Results.

The program will work to ensure that community governance will be strengthened through contributions to benefit plans for administrative and service delivery staff, initiatives that develop governance capacity, and the availability of aggregate service delivery and supports.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2020-21 Evaluation of Individual Affairs
• 2016-17 Evaluation of Governance and Institutions of Government
• 2013-14 Evaluation of Indian Moneys, Estates and Treaty Annuities

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2024-25 Evaluation of the Indigenous Governance and Capacity Program
• 2026-27 Evaluation of Individual Affairs

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations and Inuit recipients
• For-profit organizations
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Indigenous Governments
• Other
• Individual or sole proprietorships
• Academia and public institutions

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: No planned initiatives to engage applicants and recipients in 2024-2025.

Estate management is a mandatory statutory requirement pursuant to the Indian Act. In support of this statutory requirement, funding may be available to First Nations to support transition and capacity initiatives. The department will launch an annual call for proposals for this funding in early spring 2024. An application will be provided along with guidelines on how to apply and what activities are eligible.

Contributions to support community well-being and jurisdiction initiatives for children and families

Start date: 2021

End date: March 31, 2023

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22

Link to departmental result: Indigenous Peoples are culturally safe and socially well

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Child and Family Services

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Community Well-Being and Jurisdiction Initiatives Program provided funding to First Nations communities to lead, develop and deliver prevention programs and services that:

• were culturally appropriate;
• were in keeping with the best interests of the child, as determined by the community; and
• supported First Nations capacity in child and family well-being.

The program enabled multi-year projects that:

• expanded the availability of prevention and well-being initiatives responsive to community needs;
• complemented prevention programming provided by First Nations Child and Family Services agencies or provincial and territorial agencies;
• increased capacity of child and family services prevention programming; and
• supported First Nations in developing and implementing jurisdictional models.

The program recognized the importance of preventative, early intervention and least intrusive measures to prevent and respond to child maltreatment, while:

• supporting family preservation and well-being;
• maintaining family, cultural and linguistic connections for children and youth; and
• maintaining community wellness through a community-supported approach.

Expected results: The 5 year (2018 to 2023) Community Well-Being and Jurisdiction Initiative, which evolved from initially being a funding stream under the First Nations Child and Family Services program to becoming a separate transfer payment program, concluded on March 31, 2023. The program's terms and conditions are no longer in effect.

Prevention funding is now in place under the First Nations Child and Family Services program. For further information, please see Contributions to provide children, youth, young adults, families and communities, with prevention and protection services.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: There are no past evaluations.

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Not applicable

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: Not applicable

General beneficiary groups:

• Eligible First Nations recipients
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: Worked with the Consultation Committee on Child Welfare and the National Advisory Committee on First Nations Child and Family Services Program Reform to address ongoing operations and the implementation of Canadian Human Rights Tribunal orders. Negotiations with the parties to the Tribunal complaint regarding compensation and long-term reform of First Nations child and family services. Engagement and relationship building with national First Nations partners where engagement occurred collectively.

Contributions to support Land Management and Economic Development

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017-18

Link to departmental results:

• Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure
• Indigenous communities are progressing in their business and economic growth
• Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Communities and the Environment
• Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development
• Community Economic Development
• Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The lands and economic development programs support increased participation of First Nations communities in the Canadian economy and enable First Nations peoples to pursue opportunities for employment, income, and wealth creation. The specific objectives of each program component are the following:

• Lands and Economic Development Services Program seeks to:
  • enable First Nations and Inuit communities and organizations they mandate to deliver community economic development services, which includes community economic development planning and capacity development initiatives, the development of proposals and levering of financial resources, and carrying out economic development activities (in some instances, recipients may decide to carry out these activities by hiring economic development officers);
  • enable First Nations to assume greater control over reserve land, resources and environment including land use planning, environmental management and compliance, on behalf of the Minister and pursuant to the Indian Act;
  • provide First Nations with modern land management tools and capacities. The initiative facilitates the transition from the Indian Act to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management and Framework Agreement First Nations with the capacities and processes for Land Code Development; and
  • enable the provision of lands, environmental and economic development support services to communities, to assist in achieving the program's objectives. This also includes services that prevent the contamination of reserve lands and other lands under ISC's custodial responsibility.
• Community Opportunity Readiness Program seeks to increase economic development by providing proposal based financial support to First Nations and Inuit communities to assist in their pursuit of, and participation in, economic opportunities. ISC assesses proposals based on their community economic impacts, and supports projects with the greatest impacts.

Existing lands and economic development programs are being supplemented with the development of a distinctions based Economic Reconciliation Framework. This framework will be the Government of Canada's formal response to the National Indigenous Economic Strategy, the RoadMap Project, and calls to advance economic reconciliation.

• The Economic Reconciliation Directorate is currently managing relevant contribution agreements and collaborating with Indigenous Policy Leads to craft an engagement and co-development process that is inclusive of those they represent, including First Nations, Inuit and Métis. Parallel to external engagement, the Economic Reconciliation Directorate is working with departments and agencies to ensure alignment across federal initiatives that advance economic reconciliation.
• In managing contribution agreements, The Economic Reconciliation Directorate is responsible for agreements with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Métis National Council, and the First Nations Financial Management Board (serving as a trustee on behalf of other First Nation economic organizations). These agreements will support policy development which will guide actions of the federal government to advance reconciliation, increase economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples, and create conditions for prosperity. Each process will produce distinction-specific strategies that outline a vision for short, medium, and long-term actions, and propose a suite of policy proposals for implementation.

The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program (AEP) seeks to:

• enhance access to capital for Indigenous businesses in Canada;
• support activities to establish, expand and diversify the network of Indigenous-owned and controlled financial institutions providing developmental capital in Canada, which are functionally complementary to the mainstream financial sector;
• enhance the capacity of Indigenous financial and business development organizations to provide financial services, business information, and developmental support services.

Overall, the AEP responds to the needs of Indigenous entrepreneurs and the lending ecosystem by addressing barriers that limit access to capital for Indigenous entrepreneurs, which include lower average incomes, remote locations, infrastructure gaps, lack of digital access, lower accumulated wealth, and incomplete credit histories.

Furthermore, ISC supports self-determination and practices culturally relevant GBA Plus practices by listening to partners and co-developing distinctions-based programs that answer their unique needs.

Based on feedback from partners, ISC also funds the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association's (NACCA) Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Initiative (IWE), which is sunsetting in 2023-24. NACCA completed research that identified the barriers the Indigenous women entrepreneurs face that are beyond their male counterparts, including lower average financial literacy, added family responsibilities and a lack of experience and confidence in dealing with lenders and financial institutions. Eventually, NACCA created the IWE, based on the AEP, which provides tailored programming for Indigenous women and focuses on building the capacity, developing tools, resources, and supports for Indigenous women to start or grow their businesses.

Expected results: Expected results of Lands and Economic Development Services Program, Community Opportunity Readiness Program and Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program are directly aligned with the "Community Economic Development" strategic outcome, the long-term objective of which is that Indigenous communities are progressing in their business and economic growth. Performance indicators that apply to these programs will be included in the Lands and Economic Development Programs Performance Measurement Strategy.

Community Opportunity Readiness Program measures the estimated number of permanent jobs created for every additional $1 million invested through the program with a target of 15 jobs per project and the value of investments leveraged from sources outside the department (target $1 ISC: $1.3 other sources).

Several initiatives are funded through contributions under the Access to Business Opportunities stream of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program to support Indigenous businesses/organizations to increase the number of viable businesses. Initiatives include: Indigenous tourism, procurement modernization, Article 24 of the Nunavut Land Claim Agreement, financial literacy, and green economy.

Expected results for the Communities and the Environment program along with associated performance indicators are detailed in the program's performance information profile and align with the departmental result "Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure." Programs or initiatives represented in the Communities and the Environment program include First Nations Lands Management, the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program, and the Land Use Planning initiative.

The Reserve Land and Environment Management program will continue to support 132 First Nations, in addition to any new entrants, to build land management capacity. As a result of funds announced in Budget 2023, an additional 25-44 are expected to enter the program over 5 years from 2023-24 to 2027-28.

The Land Use Planning Initiative will also support the continued development and use of land use plans in First Nation communities. By the end of 2024-25 it is expected that 29% of First Nations will have a community approved land use plan, up from 26.1% in 2022-23.

Through the Access to Capital stream of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program, the department's support to the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Métis Capital Corporations (MCCs), is expected to help provide affordable financing through IFIs and MCCs, helping to establish or expand more than a thousand (1000+) Indigenous businesses. A larger proportion of Indigenous women businesses is also expected as $22 million was provided to NACCA in 2022 to deliver the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Program (IWE), which tailors programming delivered by IFIs and MCCs to better support women entrepreneurs.

To measure the impact of business development and economic growth, the department will measure the percentage of First Nations communities where non-government revenues represent 25% or more of total revenues (68% by March 31, 2025). The Individual Affairs sub-program will continue to support First Nations interested in pursuing alternatives and options to access, manage, and control their Band trust moneys.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2023-24 Evaluation of Lands Management Sub-Programs
• 2020-21 Evaluation of First Nations Solid Waste Management Initiative
• 2015-16 Evaluation of Contaminated Sites (South of the 60th Parallel) Program
• 2015-16 Evaluation of Business Capital and Support Services Program
• 2014-15 Evaluation of the Investment in Economic Opportunities
• 2013-14 Evaluation of Indian Moneys, Estates and Treaty Annuities

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2023-24 Evaluation of Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development Program
• 2026-27 Evaluation of the First Nations Solid Waste Management Initiative

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations recipients and Inuit communities south of 60
• For-profit organizations
• Not-for-profit organizations and charities
• Government
• Academia and public institutions
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC engages with First Nations to discuss options for alternative management of Band trust moneys. This is done through regular communication and outreach. First Nations interested in pursuing a transfer of capital and/or revenue band moneys will be made aware of the options, the process and the funding available to support the process.

In 2024-25, ISC will engage with the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association and their affiliated regional lands associations on elements of the program design and delivery of the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program, including improvements to program supports for new entrants, monitoring and reporting. As referenced above, ISC will engage with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Métis National Council, and the First Nations Financial Management Board as policy leads to support the development of an Economic Reconciliation Framework. The process will also support additional streams of engagement in 2024-25.

ISC works closely with the NACCA and the five MCCs, to which the access to capital component of the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program has been devolved. ISC worked in partnership with NACCA and MCCs on a 5 year evaluation of the AEP to improve the program's efficiency and accessibility, and to help guide an enhancement and modernization of the program. The evaluation was completed in the Fall of 2023, and was subsequently presented and approved by the Senior Management Committee Performance Measurement and Evaluation Committee. As part of this evaluation, ISC actively engaged with these partners, and will continue to engage through 2024-25 as part of the enhancement and modernization of the program.

ISC is also regularly engaging with Indigenous partners to continue advancing the department's distinctions-based approach for the delivery of financing with the five MCCs. In addition, engagement is planned to work with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami to address the priorities of Inuit-led IFIs. This would align with current work being done with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami to support Inuit economic development, self-determination and economic reconciliation.

A research contract is underway with a consultant who is engaging with recipient communities to discuss alternative methods for reporting on the outcomes associated with the programs and to learn about their preferred reporting medium.

Contributions to support service transfer and transformation

Start date: 2022-23

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23

Link to departmental result:

• Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination
• Indigenous Peoples are culturally safe and socially well

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports
• Child and Family Services

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The purpose of the transfer payment program is to:

• advance broad level engagement, research and policy development with Indigenous partners for a more holistic approach to service delivery and transformation; and
• undertake preparatory work, including pilot projects in service design and delivery, to prepare for a subsequent transfer of responsibility for services from Indigenous Services Canada to Indigenous partners.

Through this funding authority, Indigenous governing bodies are supported to participate in the negotiation of coordination agreements to support the exercise of jurisdiction in relation to child and family services. Through funding under this authority, First Nations, Inuit and Métis governments and organizations, including non-status, off-reserve and other Indigenous groups will be engaged on key program and policy developments to support Indigenous capacity building and self-determination.

Funding also supports research, evaluation and analysis, including pilot projects that enable Indigenous-centered evidence for decision making and serve as the basis for long-term approaches to service transfer. As an enabling support mechanism, this authority will work in conjunction with funding approved through separate program authorities with pre-determined indicators and performance measurement strategies.

Expected results: It is intended that contributions to support service delivery will achieve the following outcomes:

• Indigenous partners are able to engage with the department in a manner consistent with the department's service delivery and transfer mandate, and is respectful of partners' priorities (as measured by the number of agreements in place with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners and dollar value);
• Indigenous partners are able to facilitate innovative approaches to service design, development and delivery (as measured by the number of pilot projects or start-ups completed through this authority); and
• Indigenous partners have the plans and/or governance required to co-develop service transfer agreements and move forward with an eventual transfer (as measured by the percentage of total First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities who have accessed this authority and have completed plans for proposed service delivery organizations).

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: There are no past evaluations for the implementation of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children, youth and families

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Not applicable

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2024-25 Evaluation of the Implementation of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children, youth and families
• 2024-25 Evaluation of the Grant to Support the New Fiscal Relationship for First Nations
• 2027-28 Evaluation of Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data

General beneficiary groups: Indigenous governing bodies

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC is developing a departmental Policy on External Data Sharing, with implementation targeted for 2025-26. As part of the development, the department will launch a multi-stage engagement approach with Indigenous governments and organizations extending through October 2025.

Indigenous communities determine their own interest, willingness and desire to exercise jurisdiction over child and family services in the pace and manner that reflects their own unique realities and circumstances. Collaboration with relevant partners and stakeholders such as other government departments, other sectors within the department, National Indigenous Organizations, and community leaders to develop effective policies and programs that address the specific needs of Indigenous communities.

Contributions to support the Aboriginal Economic Development Strategic Partnerships Initiative

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2020-21

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities are progressing in their business and economic growth

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Community Economic Development

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The overall objective of the Strategic Partnerships Initiative (SPI) is to increase economic development opportunities for Indigenous communities and businesses. SPI is a whole-of-government innovative program launched in 2010 to increase Indigenous participation in large, complex, multiyear economic opportunities that span a range of sectors. It promotes partnerships between multiple federal partners (22 federal departments and agencies), provincial and territorial governments, and non-federal groups in key economic areas.

SPI contribution funding includes:

• ongoing support for initiatives in key sectors of the Canadian economy such as tourism, mining, fisheries, forestry, agriculture and energy.
• support for regional initiatives in clean energy and support capacity for local, economically-sustainable clean energy projects in Indigenous communities. This investment plays a complementary and enabling role in the advancement of Canada's Indigenous Climate Leadership and Strengthened Climate Plan.
• support for the federal mandatory 5% Indigenous procurement target. Through the National Indigenous Procurement Initiative, Public Services and Procurement Canada is working with federal partners and Indigenous organizations to invest in capacity development and program specific opportunities.

SPI collaborative approach serves to address any gaps in existing programs that may limit or exclude Indigenous involvement in economic opportunities.

Expected results: In 2024-25, the program will work toward:

• the identification of economic and business opportunities;
• organizational capacity of Aboriginal stakeholders to engage with partners on identified opportunities;
• aligned federal approach to investments in Aboriginal economic development; and
• investments and partnerships in economic and resource opportunities.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2014-15 Evaluation of the Investment in Economic Opportunities
• 2014-15 Evaluation of Aboriginal Economic Development Strategic Partnerships Initiative

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of the Strategic Partnerships Initiative

General beneficiary groups:

• Indigenous communities
• Tribal Councils, self-governing First Nations, and local government of Inuit communities
• Government
• For-profit and Not-for-profit organizations
• Academia and public institutions

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: Significant collaboration and engagement is planned with Indigenous partners. ISC will develop Indigenous-led and distinctions-based co-development processes.

Contributions to support the construction and maintenance of community infrastructure

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017-18

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Community Infrastructure
• Communities and the Environment

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The program supports First Nation communities in their efforts to have reliable and sustainable infrastructure by providing funding to plan, design, construct, acquire, operate and maintain community infrastructure assets and facilities, as well as coordinate training and undertake capacity-building activities in this area.

Infrastructure programs provide targeted funding for many types of infrastructure including: education facilities, water and wastewater facilities, housing, solid waste management, health infrastructure, roads and bridges, connectivity, culture and recreational facilities, fire protection, energy systems, planning and skills development, Band administration buildings, and structural mitigation.

Expected results: The program will work to support the construction and maintenance of community infrastructure.

1. The ultimate outcome for the Community Infrastructure Program is that First Nations have reliable, sustainable, and community-led infrastructure.
2. For 2024-2025, ISC will continue to work with First Nation communities to provide support and funding to build, renovate and maintain community infrastructure that contributes to health, and safe prosperous communities and enables engagement in the economy.
3. Targeted funding for community infrastructure projects and initiatives is delivered directly to First Nations and other eligible recipients in the form of transfer payments at the regional level through formula, proposal-based project funding or as a combination of both.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2023-24 Evaluation of Education Facilities
• 2023-24 Evaluation of Lands Management Sub-Programs
• 2020-21 Evaluation of Water and Wastewater
• 2020-21 Evaluation of First Nations Solid Waste Management Initiative
• 2016-17 Evaluation of On-Reserve Housing
• 2015-16 Evaluation of Education Facilities and Community Infrastructure

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program
• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Housing On-Reserve Program
• 2025-26 Evaluation of the Water and Wastewater Program
• 2026-27 Evaluation of the First Nations Solid Waste Management Initiative

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations on reserve recipients
• Government
• Academia and public institutions
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC will continue to work closely with First Nations to identify infrastructure needs, including in smaller, more remote communities.

Contributions to support the Métis Nation Post-Secondary Education Strategy

Start date: 2019-20

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2019-20

Link to departmental result: Indigenous students are progressing in their education

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Post-Secondary Education

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: In 2019, the Government of Canada committed to the creation of the Métis Nation Post-Secondary Education Strategy to support Métis Nation students pursuing post-secondary education and foster lifelong learning and skills development. The strategy reflects the Government's commitment to a renewed relationship with Métis Nation, one that is framed by principles of reconciliation, including recognitions of rights, respect, cooperation, partnership, and self-determination. This strategy includes direct financial support for Métis Nation students, complementary programs and services, and governance capacity to support service delivery. Funding for the Métis Nation Post-Secondary Education Strategy is provided through the following three main components:

1. Student financial support: funding to students to support their pursuit of post-secondary education.
2. Programs and Services: funding for activities that are determined based on local needs assessments with the aim of promoting students' pursuit of post-secondary education and the attainment of a credential.
3. Governance capacity: funding to strengthen Métis Nation education governance capacity, including current post-secondary education course offerings and programs now being provided by the Métis Nation and further developing and strengthening post-secondary education partnerships and networks.

Expected results: In 2024-25 to 2026-27, the program will continue to implement the Metis Post-Secondary Education Strategy in collaboration with Métis Nation jurisdictions.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2020-21 Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2025-26 Evaluation of the Post-Secondary Education Program

General beneficiary groups:

• Métis Nation recipients
• Academia and public institutions
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC continues to work with Métis Nation partners to advance and implement new distinctions-based post-secondary education strategies that respond to the different post-secondary education priorities of Métis Nation partners. A performance framework is currently being developed along with amendments to the terms and conditions to expand eligibility to part-time students.

Grant for Band Support Funding

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017-18

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: To assist band councils to meet the costs of local government and administration of departmentally funded services. This support is intended to provide a stable funding base, facilitating effective community governance and the efficient delivery of services. Band Support Funding allows First Nations communities the flexibility to allocate funds according to their individual needs and priorities and be responsive in an environment of growing complexity and as they move toward self-determination.

Band Support Funding recipients under the block funding approach must continue to meet the terms and conditions of the program authority.

Expected results: Performance results for this transfer payment program are available on GC Infobase under Indigenous Governance and Capacity Programs, Finances - Results.

The program will work to ensure local governments are supported for the delivery of services to their population.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2016-17 Evaluation of Governance and Institutions of Government

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of the Indigenous Governance and Capacity Program

General beneficiary groups: First Nations recipients

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: No planned initiatives to engage applicants and recipients in 2024-2025.

Grant to implement the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2023-24

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Communities and the Environment

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The purpose of this transfer payment program is to enable recipient First Nations to carry out and manage the lands and environmental management responsibilities set out in the negotiated Framework Agreement and its ratifying legislation the First Nations Land Management Act. As a form of sectoral self-government, First Nations operating under First Nations Land Management (FNLM) are better able to respond to community priorities related to lands, economic development opportunities, and improved administration of land interests and tenure.

FNLM is an opportunity for First Nations to opt-out of 44 sections of the Indian Act and determine how their lands should be managed. FNLM aligns with Canada's commitment to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

An expected immediate outcome of FNLM is improved access to services and tools by First Nations to manage and develop their lands and resource. FNLM also contributes to the ultimate outcome of Indigenous Peoples and Northerners determining their political, economic, social, and cultural development.

Data collected to track results and delivery targets include:

• annual reports from Indigenous Organizations and stakeholders;
• internal program data collected in partnership with Indigenous Organizations; and
• periodic departmental evaluations.

Expected results: It is estimated that between 10-15 First Nations communities will become operational in the 2024-25 fiscal year. Similar numbers are expected for the next two fiscal years (2025-26 and 2026-27). The expected number can only be estimated, as it depends entirely on First Nations' own progress and the results of their respective community votes.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2023-24 Evaluation of Land Management Sub-Programs
• 2015-16 Evaluation of Contaminated Sites (South of the 60th Parallel) Program
• 2014-15 Evaluation of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Management

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2023-24 Evaluation of Contaminated Sites On-Reserve (South of the 60th Parallel) Program

General beneficiary groups: Indigenous recipients

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: In general, engagement with First Nations participating in First Nations Land Management is led by the Lands Advisory Board and the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre, who represent the interests of 209 First Nations (as of January 1, 2024) to Canada. The Board engages with First Nations who are signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nations Land Management on strategic policy issues, particularly through their Annual General Meeting, during which time resolutions are considered and passed. The Board also engages with First Nations communities who are interested in becoming signatories through community presentations on the Framework Agreement on First Nations Land Management. The First Nations Land Management Resource Centre engages with participating First Nations on an ongoing basis to provide technical and operational support for the development and implementation of lands, natural resources and environmental laws, policies and practices.

Grant to support new fiscal relationship for First Nations under the Indian Act

Start date: April 1, 2019

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2019-20

Link to departmental results: Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The grant is a funding mechanism intended to provide increased predictability and facilitate greater flexibility of First Nations to address local needs. This funding mechanism, typically with 10-year funding agreements, could have funding agreements of a shorter duration. The intention is to move away from contribution funding and program-based reporting for First Nations that have demonstrated sound governance and financial management. Under this model, First Nations members — not the department — will assess adequacy of services and hold their leadership accountable for management of services.

Expected results: A key objective of the Grant is to increase First Nations' control over the design, delivery and management of services.

ISC plans to increase the number of First Nations participating in the Grant from 143 in 2023-24 by 18 additional First Nations per year.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: Not applicable, new program

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Not applicable, new program

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024−25 Evaluation of the Grant to Support the New Fiscal Relationship for First Nations

General beneficiary groups: Eligible First Nations

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: As part of the evaluation planned for 2023-24, First Nations participating in the Grant will be engaged on how the design and implementation of the Grant has benefitted them to date and how it could be improved to better respond to the needs of First Nations.

Grant to the Miawpukek Indian Band to support designated programs

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2013-14

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: This 10-year grant agreement is unique among ISC funding arrangements with First Nations as it provides the Miawpukek First Nation with a high degree of control over the management, administration, and operational functions of the community. The grant agreement allows the Miawpukek First Nation to identify and allocate funds to community priorities and enables it to manage its programs effectively while promoting creativity to seize opportunities and maximize efficiency. The grant covers a range of programming including: land management and registration, membership management, education, social services, infrastructure, Indigenous government and band support funding, band employee benefits, and community economic development.

Expected results: The program will work towards the following outcomes:

• Miawpukek determines which grant to enter, to continue with the current Miawpukek Grant Agreement, New Fiscal Relationship or hybrid. The program will aim to reach a grant that is duly agreed to by Miawpukek and Canada by March 2026.
• Determination of what additional programs can be added to the Miawpukek Grant Agreement. The program will aim for a listing of functional areas that are currently separate outside of the Agreement by April 2024.
• Determination of Escalator for the current Miawpukek Grant Agreement, New Fiscal Relationship or hybrid. The program will aim for a satisfactory escalator that accurately captures inflation for a rural First Nation by March 2025.
• Rebase of program funding into the Miawpukek Grant Agreement, New Fiscal Relationship or hybrid. The program will aim for Miawpukek and Regional programs to review analytics via program authorities to determine funding levels driven by population statistics, school enrollment, and the remoteness factor by September 2025.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2016-17 Evaluation of Governance and Institutions of Government (included the grant to the Miawpukek First Nations)

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2023-24 Evaluation of the Miawpukek First Nation Grant Agreement

General beneficiary groups: Miawpukek Mi'kamawey Mawi 'Omi (Miawpukek First Nation)

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: The Miawpukek 10 Year Grant and Block Funding Agreement both expired March 2023. ISC provided a 2 year grant and funding agreement extension to allow sufficient time to complete a review of funding arrangements in light of the ongoing Grant renewal process with Miawpukek. In addition, Miawpukek Band has participated in engagement initiatives on the jurisdiction of Indigenous Peoples over child and family services and continues to be engaged on participation around other initiatives such as Institution building and any other anticipated changes to national policies or directives. The New Fiscal Relationship Grant Secretariat and Regional leads have met regularly with Miawpukek leadership in 2023-24 and will continue to do so on a monthly basis over the 2024-25 fiscal year in the spirit of continued self-determination efforts; these efforts are linked closely to determining the best type of agreement for Miawpukek considering the unique Miawpukek Grant laid the groundwork for the New Fiscal Relationship Grant framework. Open communication with Miawpukek's leadership over the next year is critical to determining next steps in terms of moving all applicable funding into a New Fiscal Relationship Grant type approach or modification of its existing unique grant in an effort to deliver community level programs in a more efficient and effective fashion. The goal is for community leadership to drive this grant renewal process and have one of the two Grant renewal options employed at the end of the two-year extension as of March 31, 2025.

Grants and Contributions to increase First Nations and Inuit Youth Participation in Education and Labour Market Opportunities

Start date: 1997

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22

Link to departmental result: Indigenous students are progressing in their education

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Elementary and Secondary Education
• Post-Secondary Education

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: ISC provides a number of special incentives to address the significantly lower rate of educational attainment within the Indigenous population and First Nations and Inuit under-representation in the Canadian workforce. These incentives serve to integrate culturally appropriate content within elementary and secondary education, facilitate student transitions from secondary to post-secondary education and/or from school to the workplace and, ultimately, increase the number of skilled Indigenous youth in the workforce.

Expected results: Finalization and implementation of updated Terms and Conditions effective 2024-25.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2020-21 Evaluation of Elementary/Secondary Education
• 2020-21 Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2025-26 Evaluation of the Elementary and Secondary Education Program
• 2025-26 Evaluation of the Post-Secondary Education Program

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nation recipients
• Inuit recipients
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Academia and public institutions
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC supports initiatives, particularly the First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy, that provide First Nations youth living on reserve and Inuit youth living outside of their land-claim area with work experience, information about career options, and opportunities to develop skills to help gain employment.

Grants and Contributions to provide income support to on-reserve residents and Status Indians in the Yukon Territory

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2018-19

Link to departmental result:

• Indigenous Peoples are physically well
• Indigenous Peoples are mentally well
• Indigenous Peoples have access to quality federally funded health services
• Indigenous Peoples are culturally safe and socially well

Link to the department's Program Inventory:

• Income Assistance
• Home and Long-Term Care

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: ISC provides funding for social services as a matter of policy.

• Grant and contribution funding for Income Assistance and Assisted Living is targeted to clients or beneficiaries who are ordinarily resident on reserve or who, for the purposes of these programs, are deemed to be ordinarily resident on reserve.
• Grants and contributions to eligible recipients under the Income Assistance program are intended to provide financial assistance to low-income on-reserve residents and Status First Nations in Yukon to support their basic and special needs and to help them become more self-reliant, in alignment with the rate schedule and eligibility criteria of the reference province or territory.
• Grants and contributions under the Assisted Living program (AL) are intended to provide funding for non-medical, social support services to seniors, adults with chronic illness, and children and adults with disabilities (mental and physical) on reserve or Status First Nations in Yukon to help them maintain their independence. There are three major components:
  • in-home care
  • adult foster care
  • institutional care (for those needing personal non-medical 24-hour supervision and up to 2.5 hours of nursing care per day).

Expected results: ISC will work toward ensuring that eligible clients and dependents have access to the on-reserve Income Assistance program as well as pre-employment supports and services. The program will work with First Nations partners to determine expected results and targets as part of program reform, pending a funding decision.

The department will also work to ensure that eligible Assisted Living clients on reserve have access to home and long-term care services, social supports and services, and that programming meets the needs of First Nations and Inuit people. In response to an audit of the Assisted Living Program that concluded in April 2023, ISC also committed to developing a data strategy with First Nations and Inuit partners to be implemented as early as 2025-26, in line with the implementation of the Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework. It is expected that performance indicators will be reviewed and potentially replaced as part of these efforts.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2018-19 Evaluation of On-Reserve Income Assistance
• 2019-20 Evaluation of Assisted Living Program

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2024-25 Evaluation of the Income Assistance Program
• 2024-25 Cluster Evaluation of Home and Long-Term Care Program

General beneficiary groups:

• Indigenous recipients
• Government
• Academia and public institutions
• Not-for-profit organizations
• Other

Grants and Contributions to support First Nations Elementary and Secondary Educational Advancement

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021-22

Link to departmental result: Indigenous students are progressing in their education

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Elementary and Secondary Education

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: Elementary and secondary education is one of the essential services that is funded by ISC for First Nations communities. In 2019-20, ISC implemented a new policy and funding approach for First Nations elementary and secondary education on reserve which was co-developed with First Nations partners. The funding approach supports First Nations education by providing predictable core funding comparable to funding in provincial education systems. The approach also includes full-day kindergarten for children ages 4 and 5 in First Nations schools and enhancements for language and culture, before- and after-school programming, and adult education.

The Education Partnerships Program also provides eligible First Nations and mandated First Nation education administration organizations with funding support for the service delivery costs of education programming and services on reserve, the related capacity development needs of the administrative organization, and for start-up costs of education administration organizations. The program also supports the development and establishment of education-related partnerships and agreements to support the current needs of First Nation students and the overall education systems as well as ongoing and future needs related to service transfer toward devolution.

Expected results: From 2024-25 to 2026-27, the program will:

• Continue to implement and deliver provincially comparable funding through Interim Regional Funding Formulas.
• Continue to support regional and First Nations partners in the development and implementation of regional education agreements (REAs).
• Co-development, with partners of policy options for a revised High-Cost Special Education Program (2024-25), which ISC will use to implement a revised program in 2025-26 and 2026-27.
• Successful and continued implementation of initiatives on adult education, First Nations and Inuit Cultural Centres, Innovation in Education, Research and Learning. ISC will seek information on programming gaps and needs for changes through the lessons learned and qualitative information obtained on the early implementation of these initiatives, and based on performance indicators from the Elementary and Secondary Education Program's performance measurement framework.
• Continued and successful implementation of the initiative on Before- and -After-School Programming (2024-25).

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2020-21 Summative Evaluation of the Elementary and Secondary Education Program on Reserve

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2025-26 Evaluation of the Elementary and Secondary Education Program

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations recipients (including First Nations education organizations designated by a First Nation)
• Academia and public institutions
• Not-for-profit and for-profit organizations
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC continues to work directly with First Nations across the country to advance the transformation of First Nations elementary and secondary education on reserve. In support of First Nations control of First Nations education, ongoing refinements to the interim regional funding formulas and the development of regional education agreements to address the specific needs and priorities of First Nations communities, schools and students continues through regional technical tables, joint implementation tables with self-governing and modern treaty First Nations, and policy co-development with partners such as the Assembly of First Nations.

Through the Education Partnerships Program, the department continues to provide First Nations partners with capacity development and operational funding for on-reserve First Nations education administration organizations who are responsible for delivering elementary, secondary, and student attainment support programs in communities.

The department will continue to collaborate with First Nations partners on the implementation of the transformed Education program, including analysis and implementation of provincially comparable Education transformation, Regional Education Agreements and Adult Secondary Education programming.

Collaboration with First Nations partners will continue on the review of the High-Cost Special Education Program with the intention of making revisions to the program to better meet the needs of First Nations students.

Grants and Contributions to support the First Nations Post-Secondary Education Strategy

Start date: 2019−20

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2019-20

Link to departmental result: Indigenous students are progressing in their education

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Post-Secondary Education

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: Funding provided through the First Nations Post-Secondary Education Strategy supports access to and participation in post-secondary education. The suite of programming under the First Nations Post-Secondary Education Strategy consists of four components:

1. The Post-Secondary Student Support Program provides non-repayable financial support for First Nations students to advance towards a recognized post-secondary education credential, as prioritized and directed by First Nations;
2. The University and College Entrance Preparation Program provides non-repayable financial support for First Nations students who are enrolled in accepted university and college entrance preparation programs to enable them to attain the academic level required for entrance into degree and diploma credit programs, as prioritized and directed by First Nations;
3. The Post-Secondary Partnerships Program provides funding to support First Nations to define their own partnerships with institutions to increase the availability of post-secondary education programs tailored to First Nations cultural and educational needs. It is proposal-driven and provides funding to First Nations established post-secondary education institutions and First Nations-directed community-based programming; and
4. The First Nations Adult Secondary Education mechanism provides funding for First Nations learners to access resources and services to complete eligible adult education programs for secondary education, equivalency or upgrading of existing secondary-level education.

Expected results: In 2024-25, the program will:

• Complete an analysis of findings from ISC's three-year engagement process into the development of regional post-secondary education models. This analysis will form the basis of future implementation planning, including new provisions such as additional wrap-around supports for First Nations post-secondary students to be included in revised terms and conditions.
• Continue work with regional and First Nations partners to gauge readiness for implementation of regional post-secondary models and develop timelines accordingly.
• Complete initial preparations to revise terms and conditions for the First Nations Post-Secondary Education Strategy.

In 2025-26, the program will look to:

• Implement the revised terms and conditions for the First Nations Post-Secondary Education Strategy. Due to differing levels of regional readiness, these terms and conditions will focus on flexibility and allow for both the implementation of needs-based, regional-specific post-secondary models as well as the continuation of current programming for those regions who require additional time for post-secondary model development.
• Continue to support regional and First Nations partners in the development and implementation of regional post-secondary education models.

In 2026-27, the program will continue to support regional and First Nations partners in the development and implementation of regional post-secondary education models.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2020-21 Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2025-26 Evaluation of the Post-Secondary Education Program

General beneficiary groups:

• First Nations recipients
• Academia and public institutions
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC received a mandate to support the development of regional First Nations post-secondary education models through Budget 2019, which are intended to help enable First Nations to transition from the current suite of post-secondary programs to holistic approaches that are more responsive to First Nations' local priorities and needs. ISC has continued to work with First Nations who have led engagement for the development of their education models.

ISC will continue to collaborate with First Nations partners on the analysis and eventual implementation of regional post-secondary education models. The new terms and conditions for the First Nations Post-Secondary Education Strategy will be co-developed with partners.

Grants and Contributions to support the Inuit Post-Secondary Education Strategy

Start date: 2019−20

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2019-20

Link to departmental result: Indigenous students are progressing in their education

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Post-Secondary Education

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: In 2019, the Government of Canada committed to the creation of the Inuit Post-Secondary Education Strategy to support Inuit students pursuing post-secondary education and foster lifelong learning and skills development. The strategy reflects the Government's commitment to a renewed relationship with Inuit, one that is framed by principles of reconciliation, including recognitions of rights, respect, cooperation, partnership, and self-determination. This transformational approach includes direct financial support for Inuit students, complementary programs and services, and governance capacity to support service delivery. Funding for the Inuit Post-Secondary Education Strategy is provided through the following four eligible components:

1. Student financial support: funding to students to support their pursuit of post-secondary education;
2. Programs and Services: funding for activities that are determined based on local needs assessments with the aim of promoting students' pursuit of post-secondary education and the attainment of a credential;
3. Community Engagement: funding for community-level activities on the benefits of post-secondary accreditation and for preparing students leaving for post-secondary education for their experience; and
4. Governance/National Coordination: funding for the human, information and physical infrastructure necessary to meet local and regional needs.

Expected results: In 2024-25, the program will continue to implement the Inuit Post-Secondary Education Strategy in collaboration with Inuit partner organizations. The Terms and Conditions will be updated to more accurately reflect Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami's governance role in the strategy.

In 2025-26 and 2026-27, the program will look to continue to implement the Inuit Post-Secondary Education Strategy in collaboration with Inuit partner organizations.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2020-21 Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2025-26 Evaluation of the Post-Secondary Education Program

General beneficiary groups:

• Inuit recipients
• Academia and public institutions
• Other

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: ISC continues to work with Inuit partners to advance and implement new distinctions-based post-secondary education strategies that respond to the different post-secondary education priorities of Inuit partners. Amendments to the terms and conditions are underway to expand eligibility.

Grants and Contributions to support Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples

Start date: 2017-18

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants and Contributions

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2020-21

Link to departmental result: Indigenous Peoples are culturally safe and socially well

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The Government of Canada seeks to contribute towards reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples through improved coordination, supporting coalitions, and the broadening and strengthening of programming by identifying and addressing local needs of all Indigenous Peoples in urban centres.

Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples (UPIP), implemented by the department, funds and supports activities and infrastructure projects for Indigenous organizations to serve clients, and to deliver effective culturally appropriate programs or services to Indigenous Peoples in urban centres as well as invest in local stakeholder coalitions across Canada. It also provides opportunities for greater federal coordination of programming and supports research and pilot projects to better understand the urban Indigenous context.

Expected results: UPIP funding will contribute to economic prosperity by increasing the capacity of urban Indigenous organizations to provide services such as: financial literacy training, employment supports, job training and skills development, entrepreneur programs, before and after school programming, mental health supports, housing supports, mentorship and leadership, culture and language, as well as programs for children, youth and adults. UPIP-funded programming will provide culturally appropriate services to support Indigenous Peoples in urban centres who face difficulties accessing spaces or encounter systemic racism. Youth programming offered by partners will help guide young individuals towards completing high school and pursuing post-secondary education. UPIP funding will support organizations and address gaps in services to Indigenous Peoples, particularly those in vulnerable situations such as poverty, to overcome systemic and personal barriers to their economic prosperity within what are often harsh and complex urban realities. The program also provides funding for infrastructure projects that increase the physical capacity and improve the safety, security, and accessibility of urban and rural Indigenous service delivery organization's facilities to deliver new programming or to respond to increased demand for existing programs.

The program continues to work with partners to create a new Indigenous-led and co-developed UPIP performance framework, including indicators, baselines, targets, etc. This work is expected to be completed in 2024-25, for implementation in 2025-26.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2016-17 Evaluation of the Urban Aboriginal Strategy

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples

General beneficiary groups:

• Not-for-profit organizations
• Urban Indigenous recipients
• Other
• Academia and public institutions
• Government

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: UPIP has engaged in extensive performance-related discussions with partners over the period of November 2022 to present, including recurring monthly meetings, circulating a UPIP 'Data and Results Questionnaire', to its current and past recipients, with the objective of obtaining as much feedback as possible, and engaging in working discussions towards an Indigenous-led and co-developed UPIP performance framework.

In tandem, the ISC-led UPIP Evaluation is in its final stages, and includes a Technical Advisory Committee to ensure the evaluation remains grounded in Indigenous perspectives. The program is leveraging the expertise and knowledge of the diverse TAC to inform the process and draft UPIP's Indigenous-led and co-developed performance framework.

The program will continue to plan and facilitate regular working meetings in 2024 with UPIP recipients to finalize the program's Indigenous-led and co-developed performance framework and data collection instrument, to be implemented for fiscal year 2025-26.

In February 2024, Program representatives will be meeting with partners in Vancouver, British Columbia to further advance this work by drafting potential performance indicators for the program.

Starting in 2024-25, as part of the Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy, representatives will work with First Nations on their distinctions-based housing strategies to support members of their communities living in urban, rural and northern areas.

Grants for the Operation Return Home claims settlements

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2021–22

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have sustainable land management and infrastructure

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Community Infrastructure

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The objective is to allow the payment of settlements to address claims related to flooding of the Dauphin River, Little Saskatchewan, Lake St. Martin are resolved with finality in a faster and more transparent way. Pinaymootang First Nations settlement has been finalized.

Expected results: The program will continue to ensure claims are resolved in a transparent way.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2020-21 Evaluation of Water Wastewater
• 2016-17 Evaluation of On-Reserve Housing
• 2015-16 Evaluation of Education Facilities and Community Infrastructure

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation:

• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Education Facilities Program
• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program
• 2023-24 Evaluation of the Housing On-Reserve Program
• 2025-26 Evaluation of the Water and Wastewater Program

General beneficiary groups:

• Lake St Martin First Nation
• Dauphin River First Nation
• Little Saskatchewan First Nation

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: No planned initiatives to engage applicants and recipients in 2024-25.

Grants to support child and family services coordination agreements and related fiscal arrangements

Start date: 2022-23

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2022-23

Link to departmental result: Indigenous Peoples are culturally safe and socially well

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Child and Family Services

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The purpose of this grant program is to fund and support the implementation of Indigenous laws under the framework of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families (the Act). This is, in part, accomplished through coordination agreements and supporting fiscal arrangements (where applicable). This funding will continue to be flowed through this grant.

The grant provides funding to Indigenous governing bodies for sectoral self-government, specifically in the domain of child and family services. The Indigenous group, community or People will define indicators and report on results that it deems valuable.

There will be an annual report to the Indigenous governing bodies and their community members that Canada will be able to access upon request. It will include an audit of finances, done according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. Specific reporting requirements are to be negotiated in individual financial relationship agreements.

Expected results: Expected outcomes of the implementation of coordination agreements include the timely transfer of funding in accordance with fiscal arrangements, timely support for Indigenous communities in the operationalization of their child and family services laws, and the safety and well-being of Indigenous children. The implementation of the Act is expected to improve outcomes such as continuity of family care, preservation of community and cultural connections, prevention of First Nations, Inuit and Métis children from coming into care for the first time, and Indigenous governing bodies continuing to exercise jurisdiction under An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children, youth and families.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: There are no past evaluations for the implementation of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children, youth and families

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Not applicable

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: 2024-25 Evaluation of the Implementation of the Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families

General beneficiary groups: Indigenous Governing Bodies

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: Indigenous communities determine their own interest, willingness and desire to exercise jurisdiction over child and family services in the pace and manner that reflect their own unique realities and circumstances.

Collaboration will also occur with relevant stakeholders such as other government departments, other sectors within the department, National Indigenous Organizations, and community leaders to develop effective policies and programs that address the specific needs of Indigenous communities.

(S) Indian Annuities Treaty payments (Indian Act)

Start date: Ongoing

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2017-18

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: Refer to section 72 of the Indian Act.

Expected results: The Statutory fund – Indian Annuities Treaty Payments (Indian Act) is used to pay treaty annuities pursuant to the Historic Treaties (eleven Numbered Treaties and the Robinson Treaties).

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation:

• 2020-21 Evaluation of Individual Affairs
• 2017-18 Evaluation of 1.1.2 - Implementation and Enforcement Supports for the Family Homes On Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act
• 2013-14 Evaluation of Indian Moneys, Estates and Treaty Annuities

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: Statutory, Legislative and Policy Support to First Nations Governance is exempt from Evaluation.

General beneficiary groups: First Nations bands in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and Northwest Territories that signed one of the Historic Treaties (Numbered Treaties (1-11), Robinson-Huron Treaty or Robinson-Superior Treaty) with the Crown

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: No planned initiatives to engage applicants and recipients in 2024-25. Payments of annuities are a legal and Constitutional obligation stemming from Treaty Agreements signed between 1850 and 1921. Payments are made through in-person treaty payment events and through applications sent to the department via mail or electronically.

Grants to British Columbia Indian bands in lieu of a per capita annuity

Start date: 1927 – Practice that had commenced to pay non-treaty bands in British Columbia in lieu of treaty annuity payments.

1965 – A grant was created to regularize the practice established in 1927, entitled: Grants to British Columbia Indian bands in lieu of a per capita annuity

End date: Ongoing

Type of transfer payment: Grants

Type of appropriation: Estimates

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2013-14

Link to departmental result: Indigenous communities have governance capacity and support for self-determination

Link to the department's Program Inventory: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports

Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program: The grant to First Nations bands in British Columbia in lieu of a per capita annuity provides $300,000 to be split on a per capita basis among the First Nations bands in British Columbia that did not sign one of the Numbered Treaties with the Crown based on a per capita basis.

The grant is paid into the First Nations Band Funds held in trust by Canada on a per-capita basis to provide additional services in lieu of treaties or annuities.

Expected results: The grant is accurately allocated to each entitled First Nation based on a per capita basis in a timely manner (within first quarter of the Fiscal Year).

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation: 2020-21 Evaluation of Individual Affairs

Decision following the results of last evaluation: Continuation

Fiscal year of next planned evaluation: Statutory, Legislative and Policy Support to First Nations Governance is exempt from Evaluation

General beneficiary groups: First Nations recipients (First Nations bands in British Columbia that did not sign one of the Numbered Treaties with the Crown)

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients: No planned initiatives to engage applicants and recipients in 2024-25. A calculation is applied to the total grant amount of $300,000 based on registered population to the First Nations bands in British Columbia that did not sign one of the Numbered Treaties.