Five First Nations and Treaty #3 Investment Group Benefit from ICCGP and IEDF Programs

KENORA – BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT — The Ontario government is investing $1.33 million to support five Indigenous-led economic development projects across the Grand Council Treaty #3 region. The funding, announced on August 26, 2025, is part of a broader $9.2 million provincial investment through the Indigenous Community Capital Grants Program (ICCGP) and the Indigenous Economic Development Fund (IEDF) for 2025-26.

At an event in Kenora, Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and MPP for Kenora–Rainy River, highlighted the importance of supporting community-driven projects that create jobs, strengthen local economies, and advance economic reconciliation.

Treaty #3 Funding Recipients

• Anishinabe of Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation: $600,000 (ICCGP) toward a new community and business centre.

• Big Grassy River First Nation: $100,000 (IEDF) to develop tourism and destination plans that highlight cultural and natural attractions.

• Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation: $150,000 (ICCGP) for detailed design work on a new gas station and convenience store; plus $80,000 (IEDF) to identify investment opportunities.

• Eagle Lake First Nation: $150,000 (ICCGP) to design a Multi-Use Centre promoting health, education, and economic growth.

• Treaty #3 Investment Group Limited Partnership: $250,000 (IEDF) for a large-scale Food Distribution Centre, aimed at improving food security and supporting food sovereignty across Treaty #3.

Voices from Treaty #3 Leadership

“By investing in community-driven projects throughout Treaty 3 territory… we are working with First Nations businesses, organizations and communities to drive economic prosperity,” said Minister Rickford.

Local leaders emphasized the long-term impact:

• Chief Chris Skead, Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation: “This funding will preserve, upgrade and diversify the Golden Eagle Centre, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital hub for community events and charitable activities.”

• Chief Lynn Indian, Big Grassy River First Nation: “By diversifying into tourism, we are creating sustainable growth, jobs, and opportunities for future generations. Our culture and natural beauty will provide world-class experiences for visitors while strengthening our local economy.”

Provincial Context

The funding announced in Kenora is part of Ontario’s $9.2 million investment in 40 initiatives across the province this year:

• $6 million through the Indigenous Community Capital Grants Program (ICCGP).

• $3.2 million through the Indigenous Economic Development Fund (IEDF).

These programs support infrastructure development, training, and economic planning, while helping Indigenous workers gain skills for good-paying jobs.

Since its launch in 2011, the Treaty #3 Investment Group has been central to building long-term economic ownership and growth opportunities for all Treaty #3 First Nations.