First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund — Equity Funding

For First Nations in British Columbia looking to take an ownership stake in clean energy projects, access to patient, non-repayable capital can be a major barrier. The First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund — Equity Funding was created to help Indigenous communities move beyond planning and into meaningful participation in revenue-generating clean energy developments within their traditional territories.

Delivered by the Government of British Columbia and now administered through the Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions, this funding stream supports Indigenous governing bodies pursuing equity positions in viable clean energy projects such as renewable power generation. Equity funding can provide up to roughly $500,000 per applicant to help communities invest in projects that have secured an energy purchase agreement and are ready to move forward. By reducing the upfront financial burden, the program helps First Nations strengthen long-term economic participation in the clean energy sector while aligning with provincial climate and energy priorities.

Beyond direct project investment, the fund is part of a broader framework that includes revenue sharing tied to provincial land and water rentals from clean energy projects operating in Indigenous territories. This creates an ongoing economic benefit for participating communities over the life of a project. With intakes announced periodically, Indigenous organizations in British Columbia may want to explore whether this equity funding aligns with their clean energy and economic development goals and what preparation is needed to apply successfully.