AFN calls for Indigenous-led oversight to ensure economic reconciliation and accountability

OTTAWA – NATIONAL INDIGENOUS NEWS — In a renewed call for economic justice, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is urging Canada’s new federal government to take immediate action in establishing a First Nation-led Procurement Authority. Speaking on May 7 at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association’s (NACCA) Prosperity Forum, the National Chief emphasized the urgency of transferring procurement eligibility oversight to Indigenous leadership.

“If implemented properly, the multi-billion-dollar First Nations procurement program can significantly benefit the Canadian economy,” said Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “We’re calling for transformative change — a dedicated agency, led by First Nations, to certify and support genuine First Nation entrepreneurs.”

Indigenous Procurement Reform a Key Priority

The push comes amid growing concerns about the integrity of Canada’s Indigenous procurement system. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in companies self-identifying as Indigenous to access federal contracts — raising alarms about “front companies” exploiting the system. The Auditor General of Canada has since launched a formal review.

To address these challenges, the AFN, NACCA, and other national Indigenous organizations have been collaboratively building the framework for a First Nations Procurement Authority since 2021. In 2023, the First Nations-in-Assembly passed a resolution endorsing its creation.

“Federal procurement must start with clear, community-based definitions of identity,” said the National Chief. “If you’re not known by your Nation, you shouldn’t be eligible.”

Local Implications for Northwestern Ontario

For communities across Northern Ontario, including those in the Thunder Bay region, a First Nation-led procurement system could open doors for genuine Indigenous-owned businesses, many of which face systemic barriers when bidding on federal contracts. The move would not only safeguard funding from misuse but also stimulate economic growth in remote and rural First Nations communities.

A New Government, A New Opportunity

During the recent federal election campaign, the AFN shared its “Prosperity for All” document with party leaders — outlining urgent priorities including:

• Advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action

• Implementing the Calls for Justice from the MMIWG Inquiry

• Upholding the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)

National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak emphasized that federal procurement reform is an actionable step toward all three.