The federal government is providing $5.9 million to BC’s Indigenous clean energy projects

The minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada has announced that the government is providing nearly $6 million to indigenous communities in British Columbia for the development of clean energy projects.

According to Harjit Sajjan, the funding demonstrates Canada’s determination to work with First Nations to help them grow their economy and capitalize on opportunities in the technology sector.

He says more than $3.9 million of funds provided by PacificCan and Indigenous Services Canada will go to the BC Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative to help 14 communities develop clean energy projects.

Sajjan says the agency is also providing an additional $2 million to the Digital Horizons technology employment training program offered by the First Nations Technology Council. He says this program will equip more than 700 indigenous people with the skills they need to work in the technology sector.

Sajjan says he hopes graduates from these programs will bring their knowledge back to their communities, creating “a surge of talent.”

“The Canadian government will continue to work with Indigenous peoples, businesses and other partners to create tangible and lasting economic benefits for communities across British Columbia,” he said.

Sajjan made the announcement at the 2023 Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase in Vancouver.