26 February 2026

Funding Overview:

This program provides quick and easy multi-year (4-year) non-repayable funding contributions to First Nations to support their capacity to engage with the Province of B.C.

The objectives of the DAEF are:

• Provide streamlined, four-year funding with reduced application and reporting barriers.

• Deliver meaningful funding that enables First Nations to fully participate in government-to-government engagement and consultation with the Province of B.C., without drawing on their own-source revenues.

• Strengthen sustainable capacity within First Nations to provide knowledge and guidance that supports alignment of provincial laws with the UN Declaration.

• Advance implementation of the Declaration Act.

Eligibility:

B.C. First Nations under the Indian Act, B.C. Modern Treaty Nations, and Self-Governing Nations.

Funding Cap and Disbursements:

• The total funding cap over 4 years per Nation is $1,040,000.

• Advance Payment of $260,000 will be disbursed soon after the submission and acceptance of a fully completed application.

• Future Payments: Year 2 to 4 will be disbursed annually in equal amounts of $260,000 based on the funding milestones as outlined in a funding letter to be executed between NRT and the First Nation.

Intake Frequency: The DAEF will accept new applications until all eligible BC First Nation communities have accessed the fund. Applicants will only have to apply once to the program.