2023-2024 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: The Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF) is a permanent source of long-term infrastructure funding for communities across Canada, administered by Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (formerly Infrastructure Canada) and renewed every five years. A portion of the CCBF is allocated to on-reserve First Nations on a per capita basis using on-reserve population data and transferred to Indigenous Services Canada, where it is combined with other funding sources and delivered through the terms and conditions of the First Nation Infrastructure Fund (FNIF). Through the First Nation Infrastructure Fund, ISC funds eight types of Other Community Infrastructure projects - roads and bridges, connectivity, cultural and recreational facilities, fire protection, energy systems, planning and skills, band administrative buildings and structural mitigation – as well as solid waste management projects.

Results achieved: In 2023-24, the CCBF allocated $32,382,667, which supported 33 projects in First Nations communities across the country. One project was completed, 32 are ongoing.

Since 2016–2017 and as of March 31, 2024, CCBF provided $298.4 million to support 771 infrastructure improvement projects across the country, of which 420 are completed and 351 are ongoing.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of Elementary and Secondary Education is expected to be completed in October 2024.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found a continued need for the program, however, there are key areas that the program can focus on strengthening to improve overall delivery. These areas include addressing funding constraints, the availability and reliability of performance data, capacity issues, and challenges related to program design and the current planning process. As the evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program was conducted simultaneously with the evaluations of the Education Facilities Program and the On-Reserve Housing Program, this evaluation found there to be many similarities shared with regard to the challenges being faced, including funding insufficiency, challenges with program design and delivery, issues with capacity and staff turnover, and challenges with data and results measurement. Additionally, this evaluation also found there to be opportunities for improvement with regards to the interlinkages among the programs, which can improve efficiencies and result in opportunities to better meet the needs of communities.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24:The Department continued its collaboration on climate change-related initiatives, including adaptation and mitigation, with the Assembly of First Nations through the Joint Committee on Climate Action (JCCA). The JCCA promotes First Nations' full and effective participation in federal climate action, serving as a forum for First Nations representatives and federal officials to discuss climate change priorities and collaborate on policy. Its work includes identifying barriers to First Nations' participation in decision-making and access to climate change programs, advancing First Nations' self-determination in climate action. The six JCCA objectives focus on:

• Jointly developing meaningful approaches positioning First Nations as leaders in climate action.
• Ensuring meaningful engagement.
• Tracking implementation.
• Sharing information.
• Providing local and regional views.
• Ensuring the Government of Canada is well informed.

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 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 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. 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 First Nations partners.

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

Results achieved: In 2023-24, the EMAP distributed a total of approximately $586 million in transfer payments to recipients. This number represents the total amount of transfer payments provided through the EMAP's funding streams. $77 million was provided through the Non-Structural Preparedness and Mitigation, FireSmart, Service Agreement and Capacity Enhancement funding streams, and $509 million was distributed through the Response and Recovery funding stream.

On November 15, 2022, the Office of the Auditor General tabled its performance audit report on ISC's emergency management in First Nations. Their findings indicate that ISC did not provide the support First Nation communities needed to manage emergencies, the Department's actions were more reactive than preventative, and the Department has not identified which communities were the least likely to be able to manage emergencies and does not know whether First Nations received services that were culturally appropriate and comparable to services provided in municipalities of similar sizes.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of the Emergency Management Assistance Program is underway and expected to be completed in March 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: Engagement with recipients of EMAP's transfer payments is typically conducted by ISC/CIRNA Regional Offices across Canada. This is primarily due to EMAP's funding structure being unique - as the program distributes funding to Regional Offices, rather than directly to recipients. Considering this, the Regional Offices employ their own methods and schedules for engaging with First Nation recipients. Regional Offices communicates regularly with EMAP HQ on the needs of and issues impacting recipients, and the program makes adjustments as needed.

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; 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 various short-term initiatives, such as the initiative to co-develop distinctions-based Indigenous health legislation, and distinctions-based collaboration with Indigenous Peoples to address anti-Indigenous racism in Canada's health systems.

Results achieved:

• Performance indicator: % of on-reserve health facilities with a condition rating of "good" or "new".
• Date to achieve target: March 2024
• Target: At least 75%
• Result: 80%

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Cluster Evaluation of Health Infrastructure Support for First Nations was completed in July 2023. This includes the following six programs: Health Planning, Quality Management; Health Services Integration Fund; Quality Improvement and Accreditation Program; Health Facilities; e-Health Infostructure; Health Human Resources). In general, the evaluation found:

• While progress towards program objectives was made over the evaluation period, the effectiveness of Cluster program delivery and administrative processes was significantly impeded by limited funding, staffing shortages, and a misaligned performance measurement framework;
• Program partners perceive that the Cluster programs are operating in siloes, hindering productivity and effectiveness of program design and delivery. There is an opportunity for increased, intentional collaboration among programs;
• The current level of funding is insufficient and unsustainable to support programs in the achievement of their intended objectives.

An evaluation of the ISC-British Columbia Tripartite and Health Transformation Role in Supporting New First Nations Health Governance Structures, is underway and is expected to be completed October 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: From Fall 2022 to June 2023, ISC launched distinctions-based+ co-development processes, which focused on translating what was heard through engagement into proposed legislative options. In total, 14 co-development tables were launched with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners, as well as Indigenous partners with intersectional lenses. On August 29, ISC released a "Key Legislative Elements" document, outlining the proposed preambular recognitions, purpose, and measures for the bill, for feedback from partners by September 22. From August 29 until September 22, ISC facilitated 27 discussions and received 39 written submissions from partners. The document generated extensive feedback and reaction from First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners, as well as Indigenous partners with intersectional lenses, related to the co-development process, the legislative approach generally, as well as perceived lack of federal commitment in the elements themselves. ISC analyzed feedback from partners and is now reflecting on options that would provide more time and transparency to the process and move forward in a meaningful way, based on partners' readiness and ongoing engagement.

ISC successfully completed 12 trilateral meetings with federal, provincial, territorial health ministers and First Nations, Inuit and Métis leaders on shared health priorities.

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 monitoring and surveillance, to prevent and/or mitigate human health risks associated with communicable diseases and exposure to environmental hazards, and health-related impacts of climate change; and primary care where individuals are provided diagnostic, curative, rehabilitative, supportive, palliative or end-of-life care, and referral services.

Results achieved:

In 2023-24, ISC continued to implement various community programs to help remove barriers and support access to a wide range of health services by advancing public health surveillance, health protection, and promotion, promoting healthy living, continuing to work towards eliminating Tuberculosis in Inuit Nunangat, and strengthening environmental public health programming and mental wellness supports.

The department maintained contribution agreements in 29 remote and isolated First Nations communities for 24-hour primary, clinical, and client care nursing services. Additional funding from Budget 2021 was provided to these communities to augment resources at the equivalent of one Nurse Practitioner for each transferred site. ISC also maintained 396 contribution agreements serving 99% of First Nations and Inuit communities for home and community care services.

This past fiscal year marks the implementation of a new base allocation resulting from Budget 2017 investments in Home and Community Care (HCC). This funding was provided to augment nursing complements, and to ensure dedicated palliative care supports and ongoing HCC service delivery. Over the last fiscal year, ISC also entered into contribution agreements to advance work on the Indigenous Palliative Care Framework.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24: An Internal Audit of the First Nations and Inuit Home and Community Care Program was completed in 2023-24.

The audit concluded that, overall, the program has implemented some key components of governance, including defined roles, responsibilities, and decision-making authorities. However, opportunities for improvement were identified, including implementing timely reviews and updates of governance frameworks and key program documentation, as well as improving documented decisions, specifically related to program funding requests that arise from stakeholder feedback.

There is a risk that these identified gaps could potentially result in the program not meeting its objectives as health needs of communities evolve. There is also an opportunity for the program to clearly identify their data needs and ensure those data requirements are aligned with key results and decision-making needs of the sector.

• Planned Internal Audit of the Mental Wellness Program is expected to be completed in May 2024.
• Planned Audit of Jordan's Principle is expected to be completed in February 2025.
• Planned Audit of the Clinical and Client Care Program is expected to be completed in October 2025.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of the Healthy Child Development Program was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found a continued need for the program, as well as relevance to high-level priorities such as supporting Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (i.e., Call #5, 12, 19, and 33). However, the program is challenged by First Nations' children, families and communities ongoing lack of access to the social determinants of health and well-being. Recommendations were made around improving access to the programs, enhancing knowledge sharing across the sub-programs, increasing partnerships and relationships with communities, and revising and innovating performance measurement approaches.
• The Evaluation of First Nation and Inuit Mental Wellness Program is underway and expected to be completed in December 2024.
• The Evaluation of Environmental Public Health is underway and expected to be completed in February 2025.
• The Evaluation of the Inuit Child First Initiative is underway and expected to be completed in March 2025.
• The Evaluation of Home and Long Term Care is expected to be completed in December 2025
• The Evaluation of Jordan's Principle is expected to be completed in July 2025.
• The Evaluation of Communicable Disease Control and Management is underway and expected to be completed in January 2026.
• The Evaluation of Primary Health Care (including Clinical and Client Care, and Community Oral Health Services) is underway and expected to be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24:

• Palliative care contribution agreements to advance work on an Indigenous Palliative Care Framework:
  • Six Nations of the Grand River Territory - Block Agreement
  • Saint Elizabeth Health First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Program - Flex Agreement
  • Native Women's Association of Canada - Block Agreement
  • National Association of Indigenous Friendship Centres - Fixed Agreement
  • New Funding Relationships Grants - total of 57 (2023-24)

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: 2023-24

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 resident 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 via contribution agreements with First Nations and Inuit organizations or with the territorial governments in Nunavut and Northwest Territories.

Results achieved: The Joint Review of the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program with the Assembly of First Nations is ongoing, with the completion of comprehensive joint reviews of five benefit areas to date. The implementation of Joint Review recommendations are underway in order to enhance client access to benefits, identify and address gaps in benefits, streamline service delivery to be more responsive to client needs, and increase program efficiencies. The medical transportation benefit review is ongoing.

ISC also continues to work collaboratively with the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami on Inuit specific priorities Program through an engagement table established with the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the National Inuit Committee on Health.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

The Evaluation of the Non-Insured Health (Supplementary) Benefits Program is underway and expected to be completed in February 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program continued to engage with First Nation and Inuit partners in 2023-24 to share information and ensure the Program is responsive to the needs of its clients.

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 funds services for Indigenous communities, women, children, and families across Canada – including First Nations, Inuit, Métis, urban, and 2SLGBTQI+^{Footnote iii} 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;
• support Indigenous designed interventions and Indigenous definitions of safe, secure and resilient communities.

The Community Development Wrap-Around Initiative (CDWAI) stems from the investments announced in Budget 2021 of $151.4M over five years "to provide wrap-around supports for First Nations with the greatest community development needs." CDWAI will support 22 First Nation communities across Canada to implement their community-driven priorities. Once participating First Nations have identified the community development activities they choose to prioritize, CDWAI Support Teams will work with the community to identify potential partners to engage in discussions regarding available resources. Existing programs will be leveraged and any gaps or barriers to the implementation of the priority identified after leveraging other potential resources can be supported through flexible CDWAI funding. The overarching goal of CDWAI is to support the implementation of community-driven priorities through a First Nation led process. Alongside that, CDWAI will also identify opportunities that arise to discuss potential program reform between internal and external programs through horizontal collaboration.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of the Family Violence Prevention Program is expected to be completed in February 2026.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Joint Evaluation of the Family Violence Prevention Program and the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative is underway and expected to be completed in July 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: Pathways conducted 20 site visits in Fiscal Year 2023-24 in addition to ongoing project outreach.

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.

Results achieved: ISC received two research reports from Indigenous organizations (First Nations Financial Management Board and AFOA Canada) which will inform efforts to modernize governance programs.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Management was completed in September 2023. The evaluation found that ISC supports for land management can strengthen community planning, and provide a base for further service transfer; however low levels of funding contributed to stagnation and challenged the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program's success. First Nation signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management shared a variety of social, economic and community benefits stemming from their land code and related by-laws, though identified enforcement as an ongoing challenge.
• The Evaluation of the Economic Development Capacity and Readiness Program is underway and is expected to be completed in December 2025.
• The Evaluation of Indigenous Governance and Capacity is expected to be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC did not enter into any engagement activities for 2023-24.

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.

Results achieved: In 2023-24, the Contaminated Sites On Reserve Program provided approximately $58 million to support First Nations in assessment and remediation of contaminated sites on reserve lands. The program conducted assessments on 111 sites, carried out remediation efforts on 97 sites, and successfully closed 38 sites.

In March of 2024, the percentage of First Nation communities with adequate solid waste management systems was 49.8%. This exceeds our expected result of 40% by March 2024, and is on track to achieve our target of 52% by March 2026.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

The Evaluation of the Contaminated Sites On-Reserve Program was completed in March 2024. In general, the evaluation found that the program is highly relevant to the needs and priorities of First Nations, as well as government. However, the program experiences challenges in both the amount and the source of its funding. The evaluation recommended that the program assess its internal capacity, as well as leverage existing knowledge about First Nations' capacity to ensure communities have access to high-quality and dedicated human resources. In addition, recommendations were made to revise the performance measurement framework and integrate mechanisms to support activities that are currently ineligible; and to work with external and internal partners to support an Indigenous business development and procurement strategy.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: The Contaminated Sites On-Reserve program team worked with Environment and Climate Change Canada to support six Indigenous engagement sessions for the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan (FCSAP) at the end of 2022-23 and the start of 2023-24. Three virtual sessions were held in February and March 2023, followed by two in-person sessions and one virtual session in April and May 2023. These sessions, led by the FCSAP Secretariat and delivered in partnership with the Center for Indigenous Environmental Resources, built on the 2018 FCSAP Indigenous Engagement. The goal was to inform the renewal of FCSAP Phase V (2025-2030).

The Waste Management Initiative regularly meets with the National Advisory Committee. A two-day in-person meeting was held in June 2023, where the Committee provided input on topics like program indicators, GBA Plus, regulatory gaps, and operations and maintenance. Virtual meetings with the Committee were also held in December 2023 and January 2024.

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: 2023-24

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.

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

Results achieved:

Percentage of Family Violence-related activities directed to community priorities / needs

• Target: At least 0%
• Actual results: Not yet available. Recipient reporting and data inputs have not been finalized for 2023-24. These results will be presented in future reports once data becomes available.
• Date to be Achieved by: April 2024

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of the Family Violence Prevention Program is expected to be completed in February 2026.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

The Joint Evaluation of the Family Violence Prevention Program and the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative is underway and expected to be completed in July 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: The Family Violence Prevention Program continued to progress in its engagement with Indigenous Partners to further address shelter and transitional housing needs within Indigenous communities, urban centres, and the North, as well as identify needs for violence prevention activities for Indigenous men and boys, 2SLGBTQI+ People, and human trafficking; overall strengthening the delivery of the Program.

Through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative, the Family Violence Prevention Program continued to collaborate with an Indigenous-led steering committee comprised of Shelter Directors and subject matters experts in the field of gender-based violence. In November 2023, the Program participated in an in-person meeting with the Committee as it selected projects for new shelters and transitional housing facilities across Canada. In addition, ISC and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation heard firsthand from the Indigenous-led Steering Committee on the needs specific to shelters and transition homes for First Nations, Métis and 2SLGBTQI+ People across Canada. Through the Shelter Initiative for Inuit Women and Children, ISC continued to work with Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada and the land claims organizations to further highlight needs within Inuit communities in Inuit Nunangat, the territories and urban centres. As of April 2024, there have been 47 projects selected through the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative, including 25 emergency shelters and 22 transition homes. Through this Initiative, the FVPP is able to further progress for specific to Calls for Justice: 1.8, 3.4, 4.7, 7.3, 16.19, 16.29, 17.20, 17.23.

The FVPP has also worked closely with the National Indigenous Circle Against Family Violence during the preliminary phase of the Evaluation of the Family Violence Prevention Program to identify a network of Shelter Directors and service providers that will partake in key informant interviews, and further develop scope. This will be imperative in ensuring the evaluation is reflective of the needs of the existing and upcoming network of shelters and transition homes.

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 Tribal Councils and organizations 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.

Results achieved: In fiscal year 2023-24, of the 72,475 mail-in applications for Secure Certificate of Indian Status received, 40,417 were submitted by trusted sources, exceeding the number of applications provided via Regional Offices.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of Individual Affairs is expected to be completed in March 2027.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: Recipients are engaged through national training sessions on an annual basis.

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 First Nations Child and Family Services (FNCFS) program supports the safety and wellbeing of children and families by providing resources and funding to support the holistic and culturally appropriate delivery of prevention and protection services to meet the needs of children, youth young adults and families ordinarily resident on reserve or in the Yukon. Eligible recipients deliver prevention and protection services such as child protection, guardianship and support and child maintenance and care for children and families ordinarily resident on reserve or in the Yukon; as well as First Nations Representative Services and 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.

Results achieved: Data will continue to be collected by First Nations and service providers using various methods and sources and will meet departmental requirements.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program is expected to be completed in February 2026.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of the First Nations Child and Family Services Reform is underway and expected to be completed in November 2025.
• The Evaluation of the Implementation of the Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis Children, Youth and Families is underway and expected to be completed in October 2025.
• The Joint Evaluation of the Family Violence Prevention Program and the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative is underway and expected to be completed in July 2025.
• The Evaluation of the Inuit Child First Initiative is underway and expected to be completed in March 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24:

• 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 departmental requirements.
• Negotiations on a Final Agreement continued through 2023-24 with the agreement finalized in early 2024-25. Engagement and relationship building with provinces, and Yukon and First Nation partners continues.

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 Indigenous public service (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).

Results achieved: In 2023-24, 57 First Nations proposals were funded, which supported estate activities through community seminars and workshops about the benefits of estate planning, information sessions on the importance of making wills, and assistance with wills development. The Tribal Council Funding program provided funding to 79 tribal councils for service delivery and capacity development of their member First Nations, while the Employee Benefits program supported contributions to pension and benefit plans for 564 First Nations and organizations. Additionally, 361 First Nations and Inuit communities received support for governance capacity development. These supports included organizations which help build the capacity of First Nations and Inuit communities.

Percentage of First Nations with a completed community-led plan: 43.9% for 2023-24.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of Individual Affairs is expected to be completed in March 2027.
• The Evaluation of Indigenous Governance and Capacity is expected to be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: The department provides proposal-based funding for eligible First Nations and organizations working towards estates management capacity development. Engagement is done via an annual call-out for proposals in collaboration with ISC Regions with First Nations interested in pursuing estate management.

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

Start date: Ongoing

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 (CWJI) Program provides funding to First Nations communities to lead, develop and deliver prevention programs and services that:

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

The program enables multi-year projects that:

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

The program recognizes 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.

Results achieved: The program is not accepting any CWJI proposals and all CWJI funding has been transferred to the Prevention funding stream. As a result, the program is no longer collecting results for the CWJI Program.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program is expected to be completed in February 2026.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of the First Nations Child and Family Services Reform is underway and expected to be completed in November 2025.
• The Evaluation of the Implementation of the Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis Children, Youth and Families is underway and expected to be completed in October 2025.
• The Joint Evaluation of the Family Violence Prevention Program and the Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative is underway and expected to be completed in July 2025.
• The Evaluation of the Inuit Child First Initiative is underway and expected to be completed in March 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC did not enter into any engagement activities for 2023-24.

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 is delivered by HQ and regions and governed by a committee of regional economic development directors, and 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);
  • through the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program, support 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 is managed jointly by HQ and Regional Offices and is governed by a committee of regional economic development directors, it seeks to increase economic development by providing proposal based financial support to eligible First Nations and Inuit communities in the provinces 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 best impacts;
  • The program's long-term objective is for communities to plan and implement economic and business development opportunities, to generate jobs, own-source revenues, and provide goods and services to their members.
  • CORP funds community-owned businesses (owned by First Nation bands or Inuit settlements), not businesses owned by individuals.
  • CORP funds a portion of the project budget; applicants must demonstrate other sources of funding, such as from commercial lenders, other programs, or their own capital.
• Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program seeks to:
  • increase the number of viable businesses in Canada owned and controlled by Aboriginal Canadians and to provide a supportive business environment for Aboriginal Canadians in all areas of Canada;
  • cultivate a culture of entrepreneurship in the Indigenous community and to improve access to business opportunities;
  • 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 access to capital for Indigenous businesses in Canada that have difficulty in obtaining conventional commercial financing;
  • enhance the capacity of Indigenous financial and business development organizations to provide financial services, business information, and developmental support services;
  • increase Indigenous participation in economic benefits from major resource development and energy investments; and
  • increase the participation of Indigenous Peoples in the economy through economic and employment opportunities.

Results achieved: A number of improvements were implemented for the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program, in collaboration with Indigenous partners and regions, following Budget 2023 investments of $30 million over five years that began in 2023-24. Those improvements include a funding floor of $70,000 for First Nations at the program's Operational Level, as well as more inclusive eligibility criteria, to better support First Nation communities in building land management capacity. There were also 11 new First Nations accepted into the program in 2023-24.

Under the Indian Act, Canada has a fiduciary obligation to the First Nations with respect to Trust Moneys. ISC worked with eligible First Nations to utilize the options available to take on greater control of Trust Moneys. However, until mechanisms and legislative options are developed for First Nations to collect Capital and Revenue Trust Moneys, the department will continue to collect, receive and hold Trust Moneys on their behalf. ISC supported the development of First Nations' independent trust, which transfers all current and future capital moneys from the consolidated revenue fund to the established trust. ISC continues to work with other First Nations which will receive transfers of their capital trust moneys.

Budget 2023 investments in First Nations Land Management include a 52% increase in funding First Nations receive to develop a land code and the renewal of funding for the operations of the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre. Other enhancements provided increases to project-based funding used to assist First Nations in dealing with legacy issues, develop environmental management plans, or address other priorities that may be time-limited. These investments will support the addition of up to 50 new signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management by 2027-28. In 2023-24 7 First Nations became signatories, increasing the total number to 211, and 11 First Nations enacted community-approved land codes, bringing the number of First Nations who have reasserted jurisdiction over their lands to 117.

To date, 169 Land Use Plans have been completed, including two in 2023-24. Starting in 2023-24, ISC began an investment of $47 million over 5 years to support a target of an additional 55 Land Use Plans by 2027-28, as well as the updating of current plans to maintain their relevance and effectiveness.

Results for the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program – Access to Capital Stream were not available at the time of this publication from the reporting partners, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association and the Métis Capital Corporations (MCC) who administer and deliver the Program. Results are expected later this the fiscal year. During the previous fiscal year, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association lent to 1,080 Indigenous businesses.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24: An Internal Audit of Land Management was completed in 2023-24.

The audit concluded that the capacity building process and resources available through Reserve Land and Environment Management Program and First Nations Land Management are aligned with the needs and priorities of First Nations, and there are several mechanisms in place, particularly through ISC's Indigenous service delivery partners, to collect feedback and adapt the capacity building process and associated resources to respond to the evolving needs and priorities of First Nations. Partnerships have been effectively leveraged by ISC to deliver Reserve Land and Environment Management Program and Land Use Planning Initiative as well as provide ongoing support to First Nations in First Nations Land Management.

However, there is limited funding available for First Nations in Reserve Land and Environment Management Program to retain qualified land managers in a sustainable manner or for interested First Nations to join Reserve Land and Environment Management Program, and some Reserve Land and Environment Management Program-related monitoring and reporting activities are not occurring due to lack of internal ISC resource capacity. Additionally, there is an opportunity to assess how ISC can consider existing Land Use Plans in the decision-making process, as well as how ISC can reduce barriers for First Nations who require updated knowledge of the Land Management Manual and related tools to conduct their land management activities.

Planned Audit of the Procurement Strategy for Indigenous Business is expected to be completed in May 2025.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Management was completed in September 2023. The evaluation found that ISC supports for land management can strengthen community planning, and provide a base for further service transfer; however low levels of funding contributed to stagnation and challenged the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program's success. First Nation signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management shared a variety of social, economic and community benefits stemming from their land code and related by-laws, though identified enforcement as an ongoing challenge.
• The Evaluation of Other Community Infrastructure Activities was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found a continued need for the program, however, there are key areas that the program can focus on strengthening to improve overall delivery. These areas include addressing funding constraints, the availability and reliability of performance data, capacity issues, as well as challenges related to program design and the current planning process. As the evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program was conducted simultaneously with the evaluations of the Education Facilities Program and the On-Reserve Housing Program, this evaluation found there to be many similarities shared with regard to the challenges being faced, including funding insufficiency, challenges with program design and delivery, issues with capacity and staff turnover, and challenges with data and results measurement. Additionally, this evaluation also found there to be opportunities for improvement regarding the interlinkages among the programs, which can improve efficiencies and result in opportunities to better meet the needs of communities.
• The Evaluation of the Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development Program was completed in January 2024 and assesses its relevance, effectiveness, and efficiency in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses. The evaluation found that while the program has positively impacted many Indigenous businesses by providing financial assistance, mentoring, and training, there are challenges in reaching some target groups and in the coordination of services. Recommendations include improving outreach efforts to ensure broader participation, enhancing support for businesses at various stages of development, increasing collaboration with other economic development initiatives to maximize the program's impact, and furthering progress towards program devolution. Overall, the evaluation emphasizes the need for targeted improvements to better support Indigenous entrepreneurs and foster business growth.
• The Evaluation of Economic Development and Capacity Readiness expected to be completed in December 2025.
• The Evaluation of Individual Affairs is expected to be completed in March 2027.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: Through the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program, the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association continued to manage the Professional Land Management Certification Program (PLMCP). Regions continued to support First Nation land managers on a regular basis. National and regional events were also organized by the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association and its Regional Lands Associations to create engagement opportunities with First Nation land managers.

ISC provided proposal-based funding for First Nations working towards transfer arrangements of trust moneys from the Consolidated Revenue Funds to First Nations. ISC Regions conducted engagements with First Nations interested in pursuing alternative trust moneys management options.

First Nations Land Management Resource Centre continued to engage signatory First Nations to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management in 2023-24. The Lands Advisory Board engaged signatories on strategic policy issues, such as enforcement, while the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre provided ongoing technical and operational support for the development and implementation of laws, policies and practices related to land, environment, and natural resource management. Notable engagements included holding a conference on Enforcement in June and an Annual General Meeting in September.

The National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association and First Nations Land Management Resource Centre continued to deliver and administer the Land Use Planning Initiative. This included inviting, evaluating and selecting project proposals from First Nations and providing recipient communities with support services such as training, tools, and technical expertise for the development and implementation of land use plans.

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 is to: 1) advance broad level engagement, research and policy development with Indigenous partners for a more holistic approach to service delivery and transformation; and 2) 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 an Indigenous partner. 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/proof-of-concept projects that support Indigenous-centered evidence for decision making and serve as the basis for long-term approaches to service transfer. As a support mechanism, this authority will work in conjunction with funding approved through separate program authorities with pre-determined indicators and performance measurement strategies.

Results achieved: As of March 31, 2024, ISC committed nearly $206.3 million in capacity-building funding under the framework of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families to 219 Indigenous governing bodies to explore the exercise of jurisdiction over their child and family services, as well as 5 National Indigenous Organizations to advance culturally appropriate reform of child and family services. In addition, a total of 75 Indigenous governing bodies (representing more than 110 communities across all distinctions) submitted a notice or a request to exercise jurisdiction pursuant to section 20 of the Act since it came into force. Furthermore, there have been 28 coordination agreement table discussions started following a request under s.20(2) and ISC has committed $34,809,324 in funding to support these table discussions.

Funding in 2023-24 in support of the Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data initiative included a total of $19.8 million transferred to the First Nations Information Governance Centre for the development of a proposal for the implementation of the First Nations Data Strategy. Additionally, $1.3 million was provided to Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) for the Inuit Data Strategy, and another $1.3 million to the Manitoba Métis Federation and the Métis National Council for their work on their respective Métis Nations data strategies.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of the Jordan's Principle is expected to be completed in February 2025.
• Planned Audit of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program is expected to be completed in February 2026.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of the Grant to Support the New Fiscal Relationship for First Nations is underway and expected to be completed in May 2025.
• The Evaluation of the Implementation of the Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis Children, Youth and Families is underway and expected to be completed in October 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: Engagement of applicants and recipients occurred in the form of a feedback exercise, which began in 2023-24 and is ongoing, to assess various funding mechanisms under the Act (i.e., capacity-building, coordination agreement table, governance engagement mechanisms).

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.

Results achieved: In 2023-24, SPI invested $29.4 million supporting 20 initiatives in key sectors across Canada to advance economic development for Indigenous communities.

In the last fiscal year of Clean Energy funding, SPI was able to invest in 5 clean energy initiatives (in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Quebec, and the Atlantic) to support capacity for local, economically-sustainable clean energy projects in Indigenous communities.

SPI supported the federal mandatory 5% Indigenous procurement target through the National Indigenous Procurement Initiative (NIPI). Led by Public Services and Procurement Canada, NIPI worked with federal partners and Indigenous organizations to invest in capacity development and program specific opportunities.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of the Procurement Strategy for Indigenous Business is expected to be completed in May 2025.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: Evaluation of the Strategic Partnerships Initiative is expected to be completed by March 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: The Chair of the National Indigenous Economic Development Board is a member of the Directors General Investment Committee of the Strategic Partnerships Initiative and participates in decisions related which initiatives get approved.

Regional SPI Initiatives regularly engage with Indigenous partners, as they are part of their co development, management, and implementation.

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: ISC allocates funding for the construction and maintenance of community infrastructure to First Nations at a regional level through formula, proposal-based project funding, or as a combination of both.

Infrastructure programs provide targeted funding for general community infrastructure projects on reserve. The programs support First Nations 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.

ISC funds many types of infrastructure including health and education facilities, water and wastewater infrastructure, housing, solid waste management, and other community infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, connectivity, culture and recreational facilities, fire protection, energy systems, band administration buildings, structural mitigation, as well as infrastructure-related planning and skills development.

First Nations communities identify priorities and needs in their First Nations Infrastructure Investment Plans and submit project proposals to the regional offices, where proposals are evaluated and prioritized according to the terms and conditions of the Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program.

Results achieved:

From April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, 109 other community infrastructure projects were completed, including:

• 9 energy system projects
• 47 fire protection projects
• 21roads and bridges projects
• 9 structural mitigation projects
• 9 culture and recreation projects
• 6 connectivity projects
• 7 planning and skills development projects.

Additionally,

• 18 school facilities projects were completed.
• For the Lubicon Lake Community Buildout, 8 Other Community Infrastructures and 1 wastewater projects and the design of the Lubicon Lake Band Kindergarten to Grade 12 school facility were completed.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of Elementary and Secondary Education is expected to be completed in October 2024.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Management was completed in September 2023. The evaluation found that ISC supports for land management can strengthen community planning, and provide a base for further service transfer; however low levels of funding contributed to stagnation and challenged the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program's success. First Nation signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management shared a variety of social, economic and community benefits stemming from their land code and related by-laws, though identified enforcement as an ongoing challenge.
• The Evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found a continued need for the program, however, there are key areas that the program can focus on strengthening to improve overall delivery. These areas include addressing funding constraints, the availability and reliability of performance data, capacity issues, and challenges related to program design and the current planning process. As the evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program was conducted simultaneously with the evaluations of the Education Facilities Program and the On-Reserve Housing Program, this evaluation found there to be many similarities shared with regard to the challenges being faced, including funding insufficiency, challenges with program design and delivery, issues with capacity and staff turnover, and challenges with data and results measurement. Additionally, this evaluation also found there to be opportunities for improvement with regards to the interlinkages among the programs, which can improve efficiencies and result in opportunities to better meet the needs of communities.
• The Evaluation of the Housing On-reserve Program was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found there to be a continued need for the program, however, there are key areas that the program can focus on strengthening to improve overall delivery. These areas include leveraging opportunities to improve cost-efficiencies within the program, as well as addressing funding constraints, the lack of sufficient space or land, challenges with program design and planning (including the ORH program funding model), and challenges with the availability and reliability of performance data. As the evaluation of the Housing On-reserve Program was conducted simultaneously with the evaluations of the Education Facilities Program and the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program, this evaluation found there to be many similarities shared with regard to the challenges being faced, including funding insufficiency, challenges with program design and delivery, issues with capacity and staff turnover, and challenges with data and results measurement. Additionally, this evaluation also found there to be opportunities for improvement with regards to the interlinkages among the programs, which can improve efficiencies and result in opportunities to better meet the needs of communities.
• The Evaluation of the Education Facilities Program was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found there to be a continued need for the program, however, there are key areas that the program can focus on strengthening to improve overall delivery. These areas include leveraging opportunities to improve program cost-efficiency, as well as addressing funding constraints, challenges with the program design and planning, challenges with the availability and reliability of performance data, challenges with the alignment of processes and deadlines, and addressing capacity issues, which includes the high turnover of staff. As the evaluation of the Education Facilities Program was conducted simultaneously with the evaluations of the On-Reserve Housing Program and the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program, this evaluation found there to be many similarities shared with regard to the challenges being faced, including funding insufficiency, challenges with program design and delivery, issues with capacity and staff turnover, and challenges with data and results measurement. Additionally, this evaluation also found there to be opportunities for improvement with regards to the interlinkages among the programs, which can improve efficiencies and result in opportunities to better meet the needs of communities.
• The Evaluation of Water and Wastewater Infrastructure is expected to be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC Regional Offices are working and engaging with First Nations on a daily basis.

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. This new 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.

Results achieved:

• 2023-24 planned spending: $39,765,968
• 2023-24 actual spending: $39,765,968

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education is expected to be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC worked with Métis Nation partners throughout the Métis Nation National Council and their Governing Members on an as needed basis.

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.

Results achieved: Percentage of First Nations with a completed community-led plan: 43.9% for 2023-24. In 2023–24, 576 First Nations received Band Support Funding for core governance capacity

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of Indigenous Governance and Capacity is expected to be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC did not enter into any engagement activities for 2023-24.

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: 2018-19

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 on First Nation Land Management, which is provided with the force of law by its ratifying legislation the Framework Agreement on First Nations Land Management Act. First Nations Land Management is a form of self-government, not a program. First Nations opt-out of 44 sections of the Indian Act relating to land and environmental management by enacting and operating under a community-approved land code that enables them to govern their lands according to their own laws, policies and procedures. First Nation governments who resume jurisdiction over their reserve lands, environment, and natural resources are supported to be more responsive to community priorities related to land management and economic development opportunities.

The Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management requires Canada to provide First Nations operating under land codes with funding to manage their reserve lands. These operational funding amounts are negotiated every five years with Indigenous partners at the Lands Advisory Board.

The Framework Agreement recognizes self-governance, and aligns with Canada's commitment to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

An expected immediate outcome of First Nations Land Management is improved access to services and tools for First Nations to manage and develop their reserve lands and resources outside of the Indian Act. It also contributes to the ultimate outcome of First Nations benefiting from the sustainable development and management of their reserve lands and environment resulting from taking on greater control over their lands.

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.

Results achieved: Budget 2023 investments supported the continued growth and success of First Nations Land Management by providing funding for the negotiation of an agreement with the Lands Advisory Board on a new five-year Operational Funding Formula. The agreement included a 21 percent increase to the funding that the majority of operational First Nations receive to manage their reserve lands. Also included in these investments was funding to add another 50 signatories to the Framework Agreement by 2027-28. In 2023-24, 7 new entrants were added to First Nations Land Management, bringing the total number of signatories to 211 First Nations, and 11 communities ratified their land codes, increasing the number of First Nations managing their lands outside of the Indian Act to 117.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24: An Internal Audit of Land Management was completed in 2023-24.

The audit concluded that the capacity building process and resources available through Reserve Land and Environment Management Program and First Nations Land Management are aligned with the needs and priorities of First Nations, and there are several mechanisms in place, particularly through ISC's Indigenous service delivery partners, to collect feedback and adapt the capacity building process and associated resources to respond to the evolving needs and priorities of First Nations. Partnerships have been effectively leveraged by ISC to deliver Reserve Land and Environment Management Program and Land Use Planning Initiative as well as provide ongoing support to First Nations in First Nations Land Management.

However, there is limited funding available for First Nations in Reserve Land and Environment Management Program to retain qualified land managers in a sustainable manner or for interested First Nations to join Reserve Land and Environment Management Program, and some Reserve Land and Environment Management Program-related monitoring and reporting activities are not occurring due to lack of internal ISC resource capacity. Additionally, there is an opportunity to assess how ISC can consider existing Land Use Plans in the decision-making process, as well as how ISC can reduce barriers for First Nations who require updated knowledge of the Land Management Manual and related tools to conduct their land management activities.

Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

The Evaluation of Lands, Natural Resources and Environmental Management was completed in September 2023. The evaluation found that ISC supports for land management can strengthen community planning, and provide a base for further service transfer; however low levels of funding contributed to stagnation and challenged the Reserve Land and Environment Management Program's success. First Nation signatories to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management shared a variety of social, economic and community benefits stemming from their land code and related by-laws, though identified enforcement as an ongoing challenge.

The Evaluation of the Contaminated Sites On-Reserve Program was completed in March 2024. In general, the evaluation found that the program is highly relevant to the needs and priorities of First Nations, as well as government. However, the program experiences challenges in both the amount and the source of its funding. The evaluation recommended that the program assess its internal capacity, as well as leverage existing knowledge about First Nations' capacity to ensure communities have access to high-quality and dedicated human resources. In addition, recommendations were made to revise the performance measurement framework and integrate mechanisms to support activities that are currently ineligible; and to work with external and internal partners to support an Indigenous business development and procurement strategy.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: The Lands Advisory Board and First Nations Land Management Resource Centre continued to engage signatory First Nations to the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management in 2023-24. The Lands Advisory Board engaged signatories on strategic policy issues, such as enforcement, while the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre provided ongoing technical and operational support for the development and implementation of laws, policies and practices related to land, environment, and natural resource management. Notable engagements included holding a conference on Enforcement in June 2023 and an Annual General Meeting in September 2023.

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.

Results achieved: The New Fiscal Relationship Grant has been steadily increasing with 13 First Nations who joined the Grant in 2023-24, for a total of 143 First Nations. The department received notice of an additional 51 First Nations who have expressed interest in the potential entry to the Grant. By 2023-24, the New Fiscal Relationship 10-Year Grant has been adopted by over 25% of First Nations, with more than $1.3 billion in transfer payments flowing via the grant. The Grant Funding Escalator provided $30 million to recipients to reflect inflation and population growth. The department continued to co-develop policy options to further expand Grant eligibility, and repeal of the First Nations Financial Transparency Act. While this work progresses, an evaluation of the New Fiscal Relationship Grant is currently underway and expected to be completed in Spring 2025.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of the Grant to Support the New Fiscal Relationship for First Nations is underway and expected to be completed in May 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: In 2023-24, ISC met with 14 tribal councils and 7 health authorities, which helped inform options to extend Grant eligibility to First Nations-led service delivery organizations.

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.

Results achieved: Results to be reported on GCInfobase

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of Grant to the Miawpukek Indian Band was completed in March 2023. The community-led evaluation found a desire for increased funding, along with many community benefits that come from the Grant.
• The Evaluation of Indigenous Governance and Capacity is expected to be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC did not enter into any engagement activities for 2023-24.

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 K-12 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.

Results achieved:

• Date to be Achieved by: April 2024
• 2023-24 Planned spending: $9,429,000
• 2023-24 Actual spending: $10,182,462

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• No audits were completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Audit of the Elementary and Secondary Education is expected to be completed in September 2024.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of Education (Primary and Secondary) is expected to be completed in March 2026.
• The Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education is expected to be completed in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC did not enter into any engagement activities for 2023–24. ISC supports initiatives 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:

• 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 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 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 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 care).

Results achieved:

• Percentage of residents living on reserve who are supported through Income Assistance: 26.6% (2020-21)

In 2023-24, the Assisted Living program funded First Nations to deliver $170 million of home care, long-term care and adult foster care services. In addition to these services, the Assisted Living program is also co-developing new policy options with all distinctions groups for a new continuum of long-term and continuing care services.

Eight engagement contribution agreements with Metis organizations have been signed and engagement activities are currently underway.

Short-Term Capacity Building Projects:

• Approved 11 of 20 project proposals received - with full funding for the duration of each specific project timeline.
• Total funding for these 11 projects in 2023-24 was $1.53 million.
• In 2023-24, ISC funded 14 proposals for year 1 of funding, including 2 from Métis partners (Manitoba Métis Federation and Métis National Council). Of the 11 approved projects, 2 were received from Métis partners (Manitoba Métis Federation and Métis National Council).

In 2022, roughly 35 regional reports from First Nations partners were amalgamated into a national summary report, which was shared with partners for validation in February/March 2023. At the same time, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami provided a national report summary on behalf of Inuit partners. Options for a new and more holistic long-term and continuing care framework have been co-developed with First Nations and Inuit partners and are expected to be shared with senior officials in 2024.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24: An Internal Audit of the Assisted Living Program was completed in 2023-24.

Overall, the audit found that the Assisted Living Program has defined service areas with clear eligibility requirements and although funding shortfalls occur frequently, the program has been able to provide regions with top-up funding to ensure the continued delivery of services. However, it is not guaranteed that additional top-up funding will always be available, and cash management situations may impact the funding of other services to Indigenous communities. At the time of the audit, a needs-based funding approach could not be demonstrated, and sufficient and relevant data was not available to help forecast current and unmet demand.

The program has taken steps to re-evaluate itself, including a First Nations and Inuit-led initiative called the Engagement for a Holistic Continuum of Long Term and Continuing Care. This initiative may be leveraged to re-examine the current funding approach and move it towards a more needs-based model and improve outreach activities, which require standardization.

Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of Income Assistance is underway and expected to be completed in March 2025.
• The Evaluation of Home and Long-Term Care is underway and expected to be completed in December 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: In 2022, roughly 35 regional reports from First Nations partners were amalgamated into a national summary report, that was shared with partners for validation in February/March 2023. At the same time, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami provided a national report summary on behalf of Inuit partners. Options for a new and more holistic long-term and continuing care framework have been co-developed with First Nations and Inuit partners and are expected to be shared with senior officials in 2024.

In 2023, ISC received engagement plans from 8 of 9 Metis partners. Engagement plan approval letters were sent by FNIHB to these 8 engagement partners. All funds flowed and engagement activities are underway. Options for the Métis component of the distinctions-based long-term and continuing care framework will be co-developed with Métis partners in Fall 2024/Winter 2025 and shared with senior officials in Spring 2025.

In 2023, Indigenous Services Canada received seven proposals from seven Regions as part of the Assisted Living Program's Disabilities Initiative. All the proposals were funded for a total value of $1,095,463.

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 programming.

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.

Results achieved:

• 2023-24 Planned spending: $2,465,250,841
• 2023-24 Actual spending: $2,555,002,456

The department continued to work with First Nations and First Nations education administration organizations to inform them about, and help develop, regional education agreements and delivered the Education Partnerships Program. This supported capacity development of First Nations education administration organizations, established partnerships between First Nations and provincial or territorial education systems, and developed transformative education models such as regional education agreements.

As of March 2024, ten regional education agreements have been signed with First Nations partners, supporting approximately 25,500 students in five provinces, including one in British Columbia, two in Alberta, five in Saskatchewan, one in Quebec and one in New Brunswick. These Agreements have been instrumental in supporting the elementary and secondary education goals set out by the First Nations for their own education systems and students as showcased in the British Columbia Tripartite Education Agreement.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023-24.
• Planned Audit of the Elementary and Secondary Education is expected to be completed in September 2024.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: The Evaluation of Elementary and Secondary Education is expected in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: ISC continued to engage and consult with applicants and recipients on regional education agreements through attendance at presentations, regular meetings with either groups or single First Nations, as well as being available to enquiries from First Nations. The department also continued to engage with applicants and recipients through the Education Partnerships Program with advice, guidance and assessment of proposals designed to provide First Nations partners with capacity development and operational funding for on-reserve First Nations education administration organizations.

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 three 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; and,
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.

Results achieved:

• 2023-24 planned spending: $309,672,447
• 2023-24 actual spending: $357,605,701

ISC continued to expand access to adult education by supporting First Nations who wish to complete their high school education, stemming from Budget 2021 funding of $350 million over five years and subsequent authorities received in May 2022.

Findings of audits completed in 2023-24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023-24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023-24: The Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education is expected in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023-24: ISC worked with First Nations recipients routinely through regional offices, as well as with the Assembly of First Nations and the Chiefs of Ontario through bilateral mechanisms.

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.

Results achieved:

• 2023-24 planned spending: $11,025,958
• 2023-24 actual spending: $11,025,958

ISC continued to deliver on June 2018 priorities on post-secondary education that were endorsed by Inuit leaders through the Inuit Crown Partnership Committee Permanent Bilateral Mechanism. The department continued to support the co-developed distinctions-based post-secondary strategies, including direct financial assistance to Inuit students for post-secondary education (tuition, supplies, accommodation and travel); complementary programs and services (academic readiness, cultural support and life-skills development); and, educational governance support (funding to support service delivery and track post-secondary data).

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of Post-Secondary Education is expected in March 2026.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC worked with Inuit partners primarily through the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami on an as needed basis.

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, implemented by the department, funds and supports activities that fund 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.

Results achieved: ISC successfully distributed over $50 million in funding to the program's set-aside partners, including the National Association of Friendship Centres, the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres, Métis governing members and Inuit organizations. The department also worked with existing unaffiliated recipients to deliver funding to 43 organizations totaling over $5 million to maintain organizational capacity and programming levels. A further $3 million flowed to local coalitions who identified local needs and addressed local priorities.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Internal Audit of Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples is expected to be completed in May 2025.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of Urban Programming for Indigenous People is underway and expected to be completed in October 2024.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: The department is continuing to work with partners to finalize a new performance framework grounded in Indigenous methodologies.

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 to be resolved with finality in a faster and more transparent way. Pinaymootang First Nation's settlement has been finalized.

Results achieved: No results to be reported for 2023-2024 as no settlement occurred during this fiscal year.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Internal Audit of Elementary and Secondary Education is expected to be completed in October 2024.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

• The Evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found a continued need for the program, however, there are key areas that the program can focus on strengthening to improve overall delivery. These areas include addressing funding constraints, the availability and reliability of performance data, capacity issues, and challenges related to program design and the current planning process. As the evaluation of the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program was conducted simultaneously with the evaluations of the Education Facilities Program and the On-Reserve Housing Program, this evaluation found there to be many similarities shared with regard to the challenges being faced, including funding insufficiency, challenges with program design and delivery, issues with capacity and staff turnover, and challenges with data and results measurement. Additionally, this evaluation also found there to be opportunities for improvement with regard to the interlinkages among the programs, which can improve efficiencies and result in opportunities to better meet the needs of communities.
• The Evaluation of the Housing On-reserve Program was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found there to be a continued need for the program, however, there are key areas that the program can focus on strengthening to improve overall delivery. These areas include leveraging opportunities to improve cost-efficiencies within the program, as well as addressing funding constraints, the lack of sufficient space or land, challenges with program design and planning (including the ORH program funding model), and challenges with the availability and reliability of performance data. As the evaluation of the Housing On-reserve Program was conducted simultaneously with the evaluations of the Education Facilities Program and the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program, this evaluation found there to be many similarities shared with regard to the challenges being faced, including funding insufficiency, challenges with program design and delivery, issues with capacity and staff turnover, and challenges with data and results measurement. Additionally, this evaluation also found there to be opportunities for improvement with regards to the interlinkages among the programs, which can improve efficiencies and result in opportunities to better meet the needs of communities.
• The Evaluation of the Education Facilities Program was completed in March 2024. The evaluation found there to be a continued need for the program, however, there are key areas that the program can focus on strengthening to improve overall delivery. These areas include leveraging opportunities to improve program cost-efficiency, as well as addressing funding constraints, challenges with the program design and planning, challenges with the availability and reliability of performance data, challenges with the alignment of processes and deadlines, and addressing capacity issues, which includes the high turnover of staff. As the evaluation of the Education Facilities Program was conducted simultaneously with the evaluations of the On-Reserve Housing Program and the Other Community Infrastructure and Activities Program, this evaluation found there to be many similarities shared with regard to the challenges being faced, including funding insufficiency, challenges with program design and delivery, issues with capacity and staff turnover, and challenges with data and results measurement. Additionally, this evaluation also found there to be opportunities for improvement with regards to the interlinkages among the programs, which can improve efficiencies and result in opportunities to better meet the needs of communities.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC did not enter into any engagement activities for 2022–23.

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 activities that will allow "early adopter" Indigenous communities to implement their child and family services legislation, under An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, as established through coordination agreements and supporting fiscal arrangements (where applicable), until new program terms and conditions to implement the Act are co-developed with Indigenous partners.

The grant provides funding for sectoral self-government, specifically in the domain of child and family services. The community will therefore define indicators and report on results that it deems valuable.

There will be an annual report to its citizens 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; therefore, Canada needs to provide a rationale that is persuasive to the Indigenous group, for example, reporting Child and Family Services data in order to measure whether preventive care measures are reducing the number of children removed from their homes.

Results achieved: Since the Act was brought into force in January 2020, close to $1.4 billion has been provided to support the implementation of Indigenous laws through seven agreements. This funding is meant to be predictable, stable, sustainable, needs-based, and consistent with the principle of substantive equality.

Seven agreements have been signed, including six coordination agreements:

• Ontario: Wabaseemoong Independent First Nations and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug
• Manitoba: Peguis First Nation
• Saskatchewan: Cowessess
• Alberta: Louis Bull Tribe and Founding First Nations (Loon River First Nation, Lubicon Lake Band, and Peerless Trout First Nation)
• British Columbia: Splatsin

As many as 10 more agreements may be signed by the end of 2025.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Planned Internal Audit of the First Nations Child and Family Services Program is expected to be completed in February 2026.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24:

The Evaluation of the Implementation of the Act Respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis Children, Youth and Families is underway and expected to be completed in October 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: ISC did not enter into any engagement activities for 2022–23.

(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.

Results achieved: In 2023-24, ISC attended approx. 92% of entitled First Nation communities to deliver Treaty annuities (285 of 310 eligible First Nation communities). Approximately 129,806 individuals were paid a total of $3,212,237. ISC hosted 12 urban treaty payment events held off-reserve.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of Individual Affairs is expected to be completed in March 2027.

• Previous evaluation of Individual Affairs completed in 2022, with report published on ISC website.
• Scoping for the next evaluation of Individual Affairs will commence in 2025.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: The Treaty Annuity Payment service is linked to the government's obligations to First Nation Bands and individuals under the Historic Treaties (Robinson Treaties and Numbered Treaties). This provides for annuities in perpetuity and as a result, the government will always be responsible for Treaty Annuities. During the pandemic while traditional treaty payment events were put on hold, various other options for collecting payments were piloted. These options will continue to be offered as traditional payment events have also returned, allowing communities and individuals to determine how they would like to receive their payments.

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 or a modern treaty 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.

Results achieved: In 2023-24, $300,000 was distributed on a per capita basis to all First Nations bands in British Columbia that were not signatory to one of the Numbered or Modern Treaties with the Crown.

Findings of audits completed in 2023–24:

• An audit was not completed in 2023–24.
• Currently, there is no future internal audit planned for this program.

Findings of evaluations completed in 2023–24: The Evaluation of Individual Affairs is expected to be completed in March 2027.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2023–24: While ISC did not enter into any engagement activities for 2023-24, the department will continue to provide the $300,000 grant to British Columbia First Nation bands divided on a per capita calculation basis in lieu of an annuity.