First Nation-Municipal Community Economic Development Initiative

The call for applications for Phase 3 is now open!

In this phase, we will welcome eight new First Nation – municipal partnerships from across Canada. To ensure a wide representation, we are piloting a new regional approach starting in British Columbia and Quebec, where two partnerships will be selected in each of these provinces.

Note that we are now offering two streams: a three-year standard participation and a two-year accelerated option. Both will start in December 2021.

We encourage neighbouring First Nations and municipal governments to apply. Make sure to read all the information and prepare your application together.

Application deadline: October 22, 2021.

For more information and to apply.

If you are interested in applying: On September 29 at 1 p.m. (ET), we will host a one-hour information webinar (with simultaneous interpretation) to guide potential applicants. This interactive session will be an opportunity learn more about the application process, hear from past CEDI participants and ask questions. To join us, please register by 6 p.m. (ET) on September 28.

Why CEDI?

Many municipalities and First Nations want to collaborate as neighbours, but they don’t always know where to begin. The CEDI program, implemented in partnership with Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (Cando), supports neighbouring First Nations and municipalities to develop capacity to and implement long-term joint planning for community economic development initiatives and land use, while building respectful and sustainable government-to-government partnerships.

Since 2013, CEDI has helped municipalities and First Nations develop partnerships that establish and support their mutually beneficial economic development. They help coordinate local action to address regional issues and build a more sustainable economy for all.

Our solid partnership with Cando will provide the opportunity to innovate this program in the years to come as we keep working on the long road of Reconciliation together.

For a better understanding of how CEDI works, watch this short video (Transcript).

For examples of CEDI's tangible impacts, see this 2-page infographic.

Read the executive summary of our Phase 2 Impact Report.

This initiative is implemented jointly with Cando (Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers) and funded by Indigenous Services Canada.

Photo: City of Vernon/Sproing Creative