2024 to 2025 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy Progress Report

Departmental Action:

Address poverty on reserves by providing essential support, including funding for basic needs like food, clothing, rent, and utilities allowance.

Assist with special needs, including essential household items, personal incidentals, and doctor-recommended diets.

Offer pre-employment and employment support, including life skills training and job training, to empower individuals towards self-sufficiency.

• Program: Income Assistance
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Low-income individuals and families living on reserve and Status First Nations in Yukon can receive support through the Income Assistance program as a last resort where all other sources of funds have been exhausted. The Program provides funds for First Nations to cover the essential living expenses of eligible individuals and their families (i.e., those ordinarily resident on reserve or status Indians who live in Yukon). This supports Canada's efforts by acting as a social safety net and providing these essential supports on reserve, providing a level of stability to participants with no other means, which also makes a clear correlation with UN Declaration article 21 and supports United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UN Declaration Act) Action Plan measure 2.14.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Reduce poverty in Canada in all its forms
  • CIF Indicator: Poverty rate, as measured by Canada's official poverty line
  • GIF Target 1.3: Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable
  • GIF Target/SDG 1.2: By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions
• Performance indicator: Percentage of residents living on reserve who are supported through Income Assistance
  • Starting point: 26.6% (2020 to 2021)^{Footnote roman numeral 1i}
  • Target: Decrease year-over-year^{Footnote roman numeral 2ii}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available once program reform is completed
    • Notes: Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source, results reported are from the previous fiscal year. This means results reported in 2023-24 refer to the 2022-23 year. Note: Although latest results for 2023-24 are not available, the 2020-21 result has become available and reports as 26.6% (a decrease from the previous 29.6%). Program reform is underway and indicators and outcomes may change as a result once baselines are determined.
      
      This aligns with Canada's CIF Ambition to reduce poverty in all its forms, as the Income Assistance program is vital for low-income individuals and families on reserves. Efforts to improve data collection and adapt to emerging needs reflect a commitment to enhancing the program's effectiveness. Globally, the improvements support GIF Target 1.3 and SDG 1.2 by addressing income support and enhancing data transparency.
      
      ISC is continuing to work with First Nation communities to understand the emerging needs of low-income individuals and families to ensure the program is responsive and prioritizes First Nation self-determination in social services.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Not available (2023-24)^{Footnote 1}
    • Notes: Due to ongoing reporting delays, the results for 2021-22, 2022-23, 2023-24 are currently unavailable.
      
      Program reform is underway and indicators and outcomes may change as a result once baselines are determined.
      
      This indicator aligns with Canada's CIF Ambition to reduce poverty in all its forms, as the Income Assistance program is vital for low-income individuals and families on reserves. Efforts to improve data collection and adapt to emerging needs reflect a commitment to enhancing the program's effectiveness. Globally, the improvements support GIF Target 1.3 and SDG 1.2 by addressing income support and enhancing data transparency.
      
      ISC is continuing to work with First Nation communities to understand the emerging needs of low-income individuals and families to ensure the program is responsive and prioritizes First Nation self-determination in social services.

Departmental Action: Fund non-medical, social support services to seniors, adults with chronic illness, and children and adults with a disability (mental and physical) on-reserve to help them maintain their independence within their home communities.

• Program: Assisted Living
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: The Assisted Living program provides funding for in-home care, adult foster care, and institutional care for seniors, individuals living with chronic illness, or those with cognitive and/or physical disabilities. These supports are accessible to eligible low-income individuals to help maintain their independence for as long as possible. This program provides funding to First Nations who ordinarily reside on-reserve or Status First Nations in the Yukon Territory on an annual basis through negotiated funding agreements for non-medical social supports, as well as training and support for service delivery so that seniors and persons with disabilities can maintain functional independence within their home communities. The program supports Canada's efforts by providing essential services to clients with no other means, and is also clearly aligned with UNDRIP articles 21.1, 21.2, 22.1, and 24.2.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Reduce poverty in Canada in all its forms
  • CIF Indicator 1.3: Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable
  • GIF Target/SDG 1.2: By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions
• Performance indicator: Percentage of cases where a resident on reserve was assessed for services from the Assisted Living Program and received those services
  • Starting point: 95% (2020-21)
  • Target: 99% annually
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source, results reported are from the previous fiscal year. This means results reported in 2023-24 refer to the 2022-23 year. Although results for 2022-23 and 2023-24 are not available, ISC continued to support vulnerable populations on-reserve with non-medical, social support services that help maintain their functional independence within their home communities. The 2021-22 result has become available and reports as 94%.
      
      These actions support Canada's CIF Ambition by ensuring that vulnerable residents on reserve have access to essential support services, reducing economic strain on families, and promoting poverty alleviation. Globally, this also aligns with GIF Target 1.3 and SDG 1.2 by contributing to the implementation of social protection systems and helping reduce poverty. The ongoing funding of $162.5 million for the Assisted Living Program in 2023-24 demonstrates ISC's continued investment in social support systems, aligning with global goals of poverty reduction and providing targeted support to the most vulnerable populations.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 96% (2023-24)^{Footnote 2}
    • Notes: These actions support Canada's CIF Ambition by ensuring that vulnerable residents on reserve have access to essential support services, reducing economic strain on families, and promoting poverty alleviation. Globally, this also aligns with GIF Target 1.3 and SDG 1.2 by contributing to the implementation of social protection systems and helping reduce poverty. The ongoing funding of $162.5 million for the Assisted Living Program in 2023-24 demonstrates ISC's continued investment in social support systems, aligning with global goals of poverty reduction and providing targeted support to the most vulnerable populations.

Departmental Action: Support community-based nutrition education activities in isolated northern communities to increase knowledge of healthy eating and to develop skills in selecting and preparing healthy store-bought and traditional or country food, and to improve healthy food access.

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: ISC's continued support of Nutrition North Canada contributes to ensuring community-based nutrition education activities are available in isolated northern communities to increase knowledge of healthy eating and skill development in selecting and preparing healthy store-bought and traditional or country foods, and to improve healthy food access. When communities deliver nutrition education initiatives or activities, they are helping to enhance Indigenous and northern food security.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to sufficient, affordable and nutritious food
  • GIF Target/SDG 2.1: By 2030, end hunger and ensure access by all people, in particular the poor and people in vulnerable situations, including infants, to safe, nutritious and sufficient food all year round
• Performance indicator: Percentage of First Nations and Inuit communities offering nutrition education activities
  • Starting point: 97% (2021-22)
  • Target: 100% by 2025
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 97% (2022-23)
    • Notes: Data to monitor this performance indicator is collected annually from funding recipients/communities through the Nutrition North Canada Nutrition Education Initiatives Annual Report. Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source, results reported are from the previous fiscal year. This means results reported in 2023-24 refer to the 2022-23 year.
      
      As part of Nutrition North Canada, the Government of Canada funds and supports community-based nutrition education activities in isolated northern communities to increase knowledge of healthy eating and skill development in selecting and preparing healthy store-bought and traditional or country food, and to improve healthy food access. Communities decide which activities to undertake, based on their local needs and priorities, to help enhance local food security. These efforts help to increase access to sufficient, affordable and nutritious food for all community members, thus helping to put an end to hunger in alignment with Canada's 2030 Agenda, to support a healthier and more sustainable food system.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 98% (2023-24)^{Footnote 4}
    • Notes: As part of Nutrition North Canada, the Government of Canada funds and supports community-based nutrition education activities in isolated northern communities to increase knowledge of healthy eating and skill development in selecting and preparing healthy store-bought and traditional or country food, and to improve healthy food access. Communities decide which activities to undertake, based on their local needs and priorities, to help enhance local food security. These efforts help to increase access to sufficient, affordable and nutritious food for all community members, thus helping to put an end to hunger in alignment with Canada's 2030 Agenda, to support a healthier and more sustainable food system.
• Performance indicator: Number of participants taking part in nutrition education programs and activities
  • Starting point: 32,528 (2021-22)
  • Target: At least 30,000 annually
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 35,729 (2022-23)
    • Notes: Data to monitor this performance indicator is collected annually from funding recipients/communities through the Nutrition North Canada Nutrition Education Initiatives Annual Report. Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source, results reported are from the previous fiscal year. This means results reported in 2023-24 refer to the 2022-23 year.
      
      Through Nutrition North Canada, the Government of Canada provides funding and support for community-led nutrition education initiatives in remote northern regions. These programs aim to improve knowledge about healthy eating and build skills in choosing and preparing nutritious store-bought and traditional foods. The initiatives are tailored by the communities themselves, reflecting their unique needs and priorities to strengthen food security. By promoting greater access to affordable, nutritious food, these activities contribute to ending hunger, aligning with Canada's 2030 Agenda for a healthier and more sustainable food system.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 34,613 (2023-24)^{Footnote 5}
    • Notes: Through Nutrition North Canada, the Government of Canada provides funding and support for community-led nutrition education initiatives in remote northern regions. These programs aim to improve knowledge about healthy eating and build skills in choosing and preparing nutritious store-bought and traditional foods. The initiatives are tailored by the communities themselves, reflecting their unique needs and priorities to strengthen food security. By promoting greater access to affordable, nutritious food, these activities contribute to ending hunger, aligning with Canada's 2030 Agenda for a healthier and more sustainable food system.

Departmental Action: Continue to work closely with Indigenous partners to support distinctions-based, Indigenous-led, culturally-relevant and community-based approaches to mental wellness for First Nations, Inuit and Métis. This includes continuing to be guided by Indigenous-led frameworks such as the First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework, Honouring Our Strengths, the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy and Pathfinding Towards a Flourishing Future Awareness and Advocacy Guide: Addressing the Need for Improved Services for Indigenous Children and Youth, Including 2SLGBTQQIA+ Young People.^{Footnote roman numeral 3iii}

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Mental health and wellness is related to the overall health status of Indigenous individuals and communities. Indigenous Peoples in Canada experience inequities in mental wellness outcomes when compared to non-Indigenous people due to historical and ongoing impacts of colonization - that is, racism, discrimination, systemic violence, and intergenerational trauma. The Mental Wellness Program promotes Indigenous mental health and well-being by supporting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis-led approaches to mental health and wellness which can supplement and offset the lack of culturally safe, competent, and community-grounded components in prioritized mental wellness programs and services offered by Provinces and Territories.
  
  ISC is active in bringing together Indigenous mental wellness experts and communities on the issue, such as through the National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness where best practices are shared with the goal to improve mental wellness services to First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canada prevents causes of premature death
  • GIF Target/SDG 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being (3.4.2 Suicide mortality rate)
  • GIF Target/SDG 3.5: Strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse, including narcotic drug abuse and harmful use of alcohol
• Performance indicator: Percentage of First Nations and Inuit communities with access to mental wellness team services
  • Starting point: 81% as of March 2023
  • Target: 95% by 2029
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: The data used to report on this performance measure is collected annually through funding agreement recipient reporting. Results for 2023-24 will be available in Winter 2025, pending recipient submissions.
      
      This indicator aligns with the CIF ambition to prevent causes of premature death and supports GIF/SDG Target 3.4 by promoting mental health and reducing premature mortality. It also contributes to GIF/SDG Target 3.5, which aims to strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse. Increased access to mental wellness services helps address both mental health and substance abuse challenges in First Nations and Inuit communities.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 82% (2023-24)^{Footnote 6}
    • Notes: This indicator aligns with the CIF ambition to prevent causes of premature death and supports GIF/SDG Target 3.4 by promoting mental health and reducing premature mortality. It also contributes to GIF/SDG Target 3.5, which aims to strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance abuse. Increased access to mental wellness services helps address both mental health and substance abuse challenges in First Nations and Inuit communities.

ISC's health programs aim to improve Indigenous well-being and contribute to SDG 3 by focusing on healthy living and eliminating tuberculosis in Inuit Nunangat by 2030.

ISC collaborates with Inuit partners, and provides ongoing support through Budget 2018 and Budget 2023 for tuberculosis elimination. The department supported Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, through the Inuit Public Health Task Group, to develop the Inuit Tuberculosis Elimination Framework, which guided the development of four Inuit-led regional action plans. ISC's Public Health Surge Team offers in-person and virtual support during tuberculosis outbreaks, including in Inuit Nunangat. Efforts are underway to address delays in accessing tuberculosis drugs not yet approved in Canada through alternative access pathways.

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canada prevents causes of premature death
  • CIF Target 3.11: Eliminate tuberculosis across Inuit Nunangat by 2030, and reduce the incidence of active tuberculosis by at least 50% by 2025
  • CIF Indicator 3.11.1: Tuberculosis incidence per 100,000 population in Inuit Nunangat
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: ISC continues to support Inuit in eliminating tuberculosis across Inuit Nunangat through funding, surge support and efforts to improve access to diagnostic testing and treatments. Aligning with themes of reconciliation, the department supports Inuit-led initiatives when requested, and engages with Inuit partners to ensure federal initiatives are trauma-informed, culturally appropriate, and safe. The initiatives below illustrate Canada's commitment to achieving CIF Target 3.11 to eliminate tuberculosis across Inuit Nunangat by 2030, and reduce the incidence of active tuberculosis by at least 50% by 2025 (compared to 2016 rates):
    • Through collaboration with Inuit partners, ISC supported the community of Pangnirtung, Nunavut, in completing a community wide screening to detect active tuberculosis and tuberculosis infection within the community.
    • The Government of Canada allocated $16.2 million over three years via Budget 2023 to support tuberculosis elimination in Inuit Nunangat.

    ISC maintains an inventory of rifapentine, a drug used to treat tuberculosis, to ensure it is available for Indigenous communities. The department has placed rifapentine in two pharmacies serving Inuit communities experiencing tuberculosis outbreaks to provide quick access when needed.

• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: ISC is aware of the increase in the rate of active tuberculosis (TB) in 2023 as compared to 2016 due to on-going TB outbreaks in two out of four regions of Inuit Nunangat. ISC continues to work with Inuit partners through the Inuit Public Health Task Group, the TB Network, Canadian Tuberculosis Elimination Network, and other forums to support the goals outlined in the Inuit Tuberculosis Elimination Framework. ISC supports Inuit partners toward achieving the goal of tuberculosis elimination in a distinctions-based way that recognizes their right to self-determination and to a culturally safe approach to care.
    
    ISC continues to support Inuit partners and health authorities, as well as Provincial and Territorial counterparts, to respond to tuberculosis outbreaks and reduce the burden of tuberculosis. The ISC National Public Health Surge Team mobilized to 4 Inuit communities experiencing tuberculosis outbreaks between April 2024 and March 2025.
    
    ISC continues to send rifapentine to communities currently affected by tuberculosis outbreaks.

Departmental Action: Sustain support for First Nations' educational autonomy, fostering high-quality, culturally relevant education on reserves. This involves collaborative initiatives, like regional education agreements, and partnerships with First Nations to address educational disparities between First Nations students and their Canadian counterparts.

• Program: Elementary and Secondary Education
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: In April 2019, Canada launched a new policy and funding approach co-developed with First Nations partners, to support elementary and secondary school education for students ordinarily resident on-reserve with funding that is comparable to funding in provincial education systems, plus additional funding for language and culture, full-day kindergarten for children aged 4 and 5, before- and after-school programming, adult education and school food programming for students on reserve.
  
  The number of First Nations signing transformative education agreements has been steadily increasing since Education Transformation began in 2019-2020, going from 177 to 207 in 2023-2024.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives
  • CIF Target 4.1.1: High school completion rate
  • GIF Target 4.1: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys complete free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education leading to relevant and effective learning outcomes
  • GIF Target/SDG 4.2: By 2030, ensure that all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care, and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education
• Performance indicator: Percentage of First Nations on reserve students who graduate from secondary school (On-Time and Extended-Time)^{Footnote roman numeral 4iv}
  • Starting point:
    • On-Time: 26% (2022-23)
    • Extended-Time: 44% (2022-23)
  • Target: Maintain or increase results year-over-year
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: New as of 2025 DSDS Update
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result:
      • On-Time: 30%
      • Extended-Time: 49% (2023-24)^{Footnote 7}
• Performance indicator: Number of First Nations under a transformative model^{Footnote roman numeral 5v}
  • Starting point: 206 (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: Maintain or increase results year-over-year^{Footnote 8}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 207 (2023-24)
    • Notes: The number of First Nations signing education agreements (i.e. transformative education model) has been steadily increasing since Education Transformation began in 2019-20, from 177 to 207 in 2023-24. As of March 2024, ISC has concluded and signed 10 regional education agreements with First Nations partners as well as two pre-2018 Transformative School Board Agreements.
      
      By increasing the number of First Nations under transformative models, more students receive tailored, community-driven education, supporting Canada's Ambition and CIF Target 4.1.1. Globally, this progress contributes to GIF Target 4.1, by supporting First Nations control over their education systems and enhancing culturally relevant learning outcomes.
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Indicator Result: 207 (2024-25)
  • Notes: The number of First Nations signing education agreements (i.e. transformative education model and regional education agreements) has been steadily increasing since Education Transformation began in 2019-20, from 177 First Nations to 207 in 2024-25. As of March 2025, ISC has concluded and signed 11 regional education agreements with First Nations partners as well as two pre-2018 Transformative School Board Agreements.
    
    By increasing the number of First Nations under transformative models, more students receive tailored, community-driven education, supporting Canada's Ambition and CIF Target 4.1.1. Globally, this progress contributes to GIF Target 4.1, by supporting First Nations control over their education systems and enhancing culturally relevant learning outcomes.

Departmental Action: Enhance economic and infrastructure capacity by supporting Indigenous organization-led training and post-secondary success for students which will enable communities to excel in infrastructure planning, management, and green economy prospects.

• Program: Post-Secondary Education
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Post-secondary student success is a key element in closing the socio-economic gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and improving capacity in Indigenous communities to support and administer their economic, infrastructure and environmental needs.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to inclusive and quality education throughout their lives
  • CIF Target 4.2.1: Post-secondary education attainment rate
  • GIF Target/SDG 4.3: By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational and tertiary education, including university
  • GIF Target 4.4: By 2030, substantially increase the number of youth and adults who have relevant skills, including technical and vocational skills, for employment, decent jobs and entrepreneurship
• Performance indicator: Number of funded First Nations, Inuit and Métis students who graduate with a post-secondary degree/diploma/certificate
  • Starting point:
    • 2022 to 2023 fiscal year (2021-22 data):
      • First Nations: 1,664
      • Inuit: 277
      • Métis: 713
  • Target:
    • First Nations: Between 4,110-4,494 by 2025
    • Inuit: 50 students by 2025
    • Métis: Maintain or increase results year-over-year
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result:
      • First Nations: 2,311^{Footnote 9} (2022-23 data)
      • Inuit: 140^{Footnote 10} (2022-23 data)
      • Métis: 515 (2022-23 data)
    • Notes: Given the timing of reporting, and the fact that school years and departmental fiscal years do not align, results reported are from the previous fiscal year. This means results reported in 2023-24 refer to the 2022-23 year.
      
      Although the results show mixed progress, this fluctuation does not indicate a decline in student progression or success but rather reflects how recipients may prioritize funding based on their specific community needs, such as funding students in their final year of studies/near graduation in one cycle, and then focusing on students in earlier years of studies in other years. These variances reflect recipient autonomy in service delivery.
      
      The department continues to support global and Canadian education goals including GIF target 4.3 to improve access to higher education and CIF Ambition and Target 4.2.1 to improve education attainment rates. Additionally, the growth in graduates supports GIF Target 4.4 by providing relevant skills for better employment and economic opportunities, contributing to long-term development in Indigenous communities.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result:
      • First Nations: 2,056 (2023-24)^{Footnote 11}
      • Inuit: 235^{Footnote 12} (2023-24)
      • Métis: 806^{Footnote 13} (2023-24)
    • Notes: Although the results show mixed progress, this fluctuation does not indicate a decline in student progression or success but rather reflects how recipients may prioritize funding based on their specific community needs, such as funding students in their final year of studies/near graduation in one cycle, and then focusing on students in earlier years of studies in other years. These variances reflect recipient autonomy in service delivery.
      
      The department continues to support global and Canadian education goals including GIF target 4.3 to improve access to higher education and CIF Ambition and Target 4.2.1 to improve education attainment rates. Additionally, the growth in graduates supports GIF Target 4.4 by providing relevant skills for better employment and economic opportunities, contributing to long-term development in Indigenous communities.

Through the Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program, ISC invests in education facilities in First Nations communities, including new constructions as well as additions, renovations and major repairs to existing schools in First Nations communities. Investments in education facilities support the creation of quality learning environments that are safe and healthy, promoting better educational outcomes for students living on reserves. Schools are often the cornerstone of First Nations communities, providing students with a safe place to learn and grow, and acting as a gathering place for community events and cultural activities.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • GIF Target 4.a: Build and upgrade education facilities that are child, disability and gender sensitive and provide safe, non-violent, inclusive and effective learning environments for all
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: In 2023-24, ISC invested $200.7 million in targeted funding to support new education facilities projects in First Nation communities across Canada. During the fiscal year, 18 projects were completed, including the construction of four new schools and eight renovations and upgrades projects.
    
    Some examples of these projects include:
    • On September 20, 2023, the Wapekeka First Nation celebrated the grand opening of their new Reverend Eleazar Winter Education Centre, which completed construction in May 2023. The elementary school for junior kindergarten (K4) to grade 8 students is designed to support a yearly projected enrolment of 143 students and includes a kitchen, gymnasium, playground, hockey rink, and sports field.
    • On September 29, 2023, the Matawa Tribal Council celebrated the grand opening of its new Matawa Education and Care Centre, which completed construction in August 2023. The secondary school for grade 9 to 12 students is designed to support a yearly projected enrolment of 189 students and includes a 100-bed student residence and a gymnasium.
    • On December 8, 2023, the Ermineskin Cree Nation, in partnership with the Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission, celebrated the grand opening of the new Wildcat Early Learning Centre. The new facility completed construction in October 2023. The kindergarten school for K4 and K5 students is designed to support a yearly projected enrolment of 220 students.
    • On February 12, 2024, Biigtigong Nishnaabeg, located in Ontario, celebrated the opening of its new Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Endzhi-gkinoohmaading elementary school. The new school is almost three times the size of the old school and has space for 175 students.

    Schools are often the cornerstone of First Nations communities, providing students with a safe place to learn and grow, and acting as a gathering place for community events and cultural activities. Investments in education facilities infrastructure support the creation of quality learning environments that are safe and healthy, promoting better educational outcomes for students living on reserves. ISC targeted education facilities infrastructure investments include new school constructions as well as additions, renovations and major repairs to existing schools in First Nations communities. Gender inclusive washrooms, ramps and larger washroom stalls for wheelchair accessibility and additional spaces for students with developmental, learning, and other disabilities are a few examples of elements considered in the design and can be integrated into schools, as circumstances dictate.
    
    Since 2016 and as of March 31, 2024, ISC has invested $2.18 billion of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 317 school-related infrastructure projects, 185 of which are complete. These projects will result in the construction or renovation of 230 schools benefitting approximately 38,000 students, 153 of which are complete:

    • Construction of 73 new schools (benefitting approximately 18,000 students), 47 of which are complete;
    • Renovations or upgrades to 157 existing schools (benefitting approximately 20,000 students), 106 of which are complete.
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: In 2024-2025, ISC invested $114.6 million in targeted funding to support new education facilities projects in First Nation communities across Canada. During the fiscal year, 29 projects were completed, including the construction of eight new schools, and eight renovations or upgrades to existing schools.
    
    Below are some examples of schools projects completed during 2024-2025:
    • Following its grand opening on August 24, 2024, the new Awacak okiskinohamatowikamikowaw Elementary School project in Atikamekw of Manawan First Nation was completed. The new 6,824-square-meter school is designed to accommodate 650 students, including kindergarten to Grade 6 students and special needs classes. The project is the largest school building ever financed by ISC in an Indigenous community in Quebec.
    • February 2025, Sheshatshiu Innu First Nation celebrated the grand opening of two new wings at the K–12 Sheshatshiu Innu School in Labrador. The 2,144-square-meter expansion includes 10 extra classrooms, a pre-kindergarten space, an upgraded computer room, and a room for students with sensory needs. The expansion also includes a new Innu culture and language classroom where students can learn traditional, hands-on activities with Innu teachers through the school's cultural program.
    • The Kingfisher Lake Education Centre reached its completion. The new 2,446 square meter K4–10 school is located in Kingfisher Lake First Nation, a remote community located in northern Ontario only accessible by winter ice road and airplane. It includes eight classrooms, an Elder's lounge, traditional learning classrooms, health rooms, and several outdoor play areas. The project also includes six new teacher accommodations.

    Since 2016 and as of March 31, 2025, ISC has invested $2.29 billion of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 337 school infrastructure and supporting projects, 204 of which are completed. These projects will result in the construction or renovation of 235 schools benefitting approximately 39,000 students, 165 of which are completed:

    • Construction of 76 new schools (benefitting approximately 18,000 students), 54 of which are completed;
    • Renovations or upgrades to 159 existing schools (benefitting approximately 21,000 students), 111 of which are completed.

Departmental Action: Fund and support Indigenous women entrepreneurs through funding for the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association's (NACCA) Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurship Initiative.

• Program: Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: ISC funds the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association's Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurship Initiative under the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program (AEP). The Initiative supports Indigenous women in various stages of engagement with entrepreneurship and invests in their skills, employment, and leadership to address the barriers Indigenous women entrepreneurs face. The initiative also provides anti-bias training to Indigenous Financial Institutions and business support officers to ensure the services and environment are inclusive and supportive of women entrepreneurs. The aim is to increase women's participation in entrepreneurship and increase women's financial independence. This in turn will hopefully contribute to increased socio-economic security and gender equality in the long term, and to advancing economic reconciliation.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
  • CIF Ambition 5.2: Gender equality in leadership roles and at all levels of decision-making
  • CIF Target 5.2.1: Proportion of leadership roles held by women
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.c: Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels
• Performance indicator: Number of micro-loans provided to Indigenous women entrepreneurs
  • Starting point: 164 (2022 to 2023)^{Footnote roman numeral 6vi}
  • Target: 200 micro-loans over the three years^{Footnote 14}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 164 (2022-23)
    • Notes: Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source (NACCA Annual Report), results reported are from the previous fiscal year, i.e. the results reported in the 2023-24 column refers to the 2022-23 year.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 320 (2023-24)^{Footnote 15}
    • Notes: Indicator result is the cumulative total between 2022-2024. The total number of micro-loans provided in 2023-24 is 156.
• Performance indicator: Percentage increase in number of Indigenous women entrepreneurs accessing financing through Aboriginal financial institutions and Métis capital corporations
  • Starting point: 310 Indigenous women entrepreneurs received financing from National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association's network in 2020-2021. This includes businesses owned 100% and partially by women.
  • Target: Increase of 50% by 2025
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 18.3% increase (by 2022-23)
    • Notes: Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source (NACCA Annual Report), results reported are from the previous fiscal year, i.e. the results reported in the 2023-24 column refers to the 2022-23 year.
      
      The result reflects the increase from 310 women who owned or co-owned businesses in 2020-21, to 367 women owned or co-owned businesses in 2022-23. This growth supports CIF Ambition 5.2 by promoting gender equality and increasing women's leadership in entrepreneurship. This also contributes to GIF Target 5.1 by reducing discrimination against women in business, and to GIF Target 5.c by supporting women entrepreneurs through improved access to capital. Overall, the result reflects ongoing efforts to advance gender equality and support Indigenous women in leadership roles.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 95% (2023-24)^{Footnote 16}
    • Notes: The result reflects the increase from 164 women who received microloans in 2022-23 through the Indigenous Women's Entrepreneurship (IWE) Program to an additional 156 women who received microloans through IWE in 2023-24, a 95% increase.
      
      This growth supports CIF Ambition 5.2 by promoting gender equality and increasing women's leadership in entrepreneurship. This also contributes to GIF Target 5.1 by reducing discrimination against women in business, and to GIF Target 5.c by supporting women entrepreneurs through improved access to capital. Overall, the result reflects ongoing efforts to advance gender equality and support Indigenous women in leadership roles.

Departmental Action: Collaborate with Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation on the implementation of the Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative to support victims of violence.

• Program: Safety and Prevention Services
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: The Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative develops and funds shelters and transitional housing for those escaping gender-based violence including Indigenous women and their children, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.
  
  The Initiative will result in a minimum of 38 emergency shelters and 50 transition homes across Canada, including in urban areas and the North. This work supports the distinctions-based programming to safeguard Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQI+ people from gender-based violence as outlined in the Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Eliminate gender-based violence and harassment
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation
• Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous women who report being a victim of intimate partner violence in the previous 12 months
  • Starting point: 17% (2018)
  • Target: Decrease in results year-over-year^{Footnote 17}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 7.5% (2022-23)
    • Notes: Results are based on data from the Statistics Canada Survey, Victimization of First Nations People, Métis and Inuit in Canada. Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source, the most current published results are from the 2022-23 Statistics Canada Survey, which reported that percentages fell from 15% in 2009 to 7.5% in 2019.
      
      Progress since the starting point supports the CIF ambition to eliminate gender-based violence and harassment, and aligns with GIF/SDG Target 5.2, which seeks to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls in public and private spheres. The decrease in reported intimate partner violence reflects efforts to reduce violence against Indigenous women, in line with national and global goals.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 16.9% (2022-2023)^{Footnote 18}
    • Notes: An exact target is inappropriate for this indicator given the program's ability to collect accurate information. Instead, the program is looking to see a general positive movement/reduction in a range of aspects of family violence occurrence/issues.
      
      Results are based on data from the Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces. Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source, the most current published results are from the 2018 Statistics Canada Survey. This source is best suited for this indicator as it measures all intimate partner violence, rather than a subset. The survey is published in 5 year cycles; thus, the next round of results is expected in 2026.
      
      ISC continued to work closely with Statistics Canada to derive data to support this indicator; however, there was limited resources to provide annual results.
      
      Progress since the starting point supports the CIF ambition to eliminate gender-based violence and harassment, and aligns with GIF/SDG Target 5.2, which seeks to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls in public and private spheres. The decrease in reported intimate partner violence reflects efforts to reduce violence against Indigenous women, in line with national and global goals.
• Performance indicator: Percentage of requests for overnight residence in ISC-funded shelters by women, children and 2SLGBTQI+ people that are met
  • Starting point: 78% (2020-21)
  • Target: Maintain or increase results year-over-year
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: The Program collects data annually on the operation of emergency shelters. In 2022-23, the Program revised its methodology to include the number of overnight requests that were turned away. With the end of COVID-19 reporting flexibilities for recipients in March 2024, the Program has collected all outstanding data and is now reviewing it to determine the 2023-24 result, which is expected to be finalized in 2024-25. This will enable the program to continue reporting against this indicator on an annual basis.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 62% (2023-2024)^{Footnote 19}
    • Notes: Program is working on collating results of the 2024-25 Data Collection Instruments and will be available in May 2025. For 2023-24, 62% of requests for overnight residence in ISC-funded family violence shelters by women, children, and 2SLGBTQI+ People were met.
      
      Starting point only includes data from existing shelters. As more shelters open, as a result of joint initiatives to build shelters with CMHC, and if the program receives additional funding for shelter operations, this result is expected to change.
      
      Interim target established in 2023-24 as the department works toward a final target under co-development with partners. Final target to be determined in March 2025.
      
      The Program collects data annually on the operation of emergency shelters. In 2022-23, the Program revised its methodology to include the number of overnight requests that were turned away.

Departmental Action: Support services for Indigenous communities, women, children, and families across Canada, including First Nations, Inuit, Métis, urban, and gender diverse people through the Pathways Initiative, targeting the specific safety and well-being needs of the communities.

• Program: Safety and Prevention Services
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: The Indigenous Shelter and Transitional Housing Initiative develops and funds shelters and transitional housing for those escaping gender-based violence including Indigenous women and their children, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.
  
  The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative funds projects that support holistic Indigenous community safety and well-being initiatives that prioritize and address the safety and well-being of Indigenous women and girls. Funding provided through the Pathways Initiative aims to:
  • Support Indigenous-designed interventions and Indigenous definitions of safe, secure and resilient communities;
  • Support programs, services and interventions that address existing and emerging needs relating to the safety and well-being of Indigenous women and girls and 2SLGBTQI+ People; and address community safety and well-being needs that support reconciliation, resiliency, and capacity of Indigenous communities/organizations and their members, contribute to and promote a sense of belonging of community members.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Eliminate gender-based violence and harassment
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation
• Performance indicator: Percentage of recipient communities or organizations reporting that their project has improved community safety and well-being
  • Starting point: To be determined (new program)
  • Target: 90% annually
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative is supporting holistic Indigenous community safety and well-being initiatives, including those that address the safety and well-being of Indigenous women and girls. In 2023-24, Pathways provided $28 million in funding to 52 community safety and wellbeing projects, including 37 First Nations organizations, five Inuit organizations, two Metis organizations, and eight urban Indigenous organizations. The Pathways to Safe Indigenous Communities Initiative continued with a $120 million commitment over 5 years (2021-2026) to assist First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities and partners, both on- and off-reserve, to implement Indigenous-designed projects to improve community safety and well-being.
      
      This indicator supports the CIF goal of eliminating gender-based violence and harassment and aligns with GIF/SDG Target 5.2. By improving data collection on project outcomes, the Initiative helps identify the effectiveness of community safety and well-being projects, enhancing efforts to meet community needs and address safety concerns for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.
      
      Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source, results reported are from the previous fiscal year. This means results reported in 2023-24 refer to the 2022-23 year.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2023-24)^{Footnote 20}
    • Notes: 49 of 52 projects have submitted final or interim reports. Of these, 100% have reported positive outcomes on community safety and well-being.
      
      In 2024-25, Pathways provided $30,544,262 in funding to 53 community safety and wellbeing projects, including 31 First Nations organizations, 9 Inuit organizations, 4 Metis organizations, and 9 urban Indigenous organizations.

Departmental Action: Implement culturally competent GBA Plus (CCGBA Plus), an impacts-focused form of intersectional analysis that has reconciliation at the core and is informed by the work of National Indigenous Women's Organizations and Indigenous Peoples more broadly.

• Program: Internal Services
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Notable in the ISC context, GBA Plus goes beyond gender to think about all elements of individual and community identity. ISC's GBA Plus Responsibility Centre provides capacity building supports, advice, and challenge function/review of all ISC programs and internal services. This is meant to ensure ISC programs and services are inclusive for diverse subpopulations of Indigenous Peoples, that barriers to accessing programs or services are anticipated and mitigated, and to support inclusive advancement of the department's mandate and goals, including SDGs. ISC has recently established a GBA Plus working group with Indigenous partners to further decolonize the approach.
  
  CCGBA Plus requires consideration of real and potential barriers and impacts, and pushes for mitigation measures to ensure equitable access and benefit for and between diverse groups of individuals and communities.
  
  Key activities include advice on collecting, using, and reporting on disaggregated data and qualitative evidence to assess and demonstrate impact on diverse subpopulations of Indigenous Peoples, capacity building activities to support programs and internal services throughout the department, and challenge function to advise on all major initiatives requiring senior executive approval.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Gender equality in leadership roles and at all levels of decision-making
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.1: End all forms of discrimination against all women and girls everywhere
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.5: Ensure women's full and effective participation and equal opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision making in political, economic and public life
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.6: Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights as agreed in accordance with the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development and the Beijing Platform for Action and the outcome documents of their review conferences
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.A: Undertake reforms to give women equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to ownership and control over land and other forms of property, financial services, inheritance and natural resources, in accordance with national laws
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.B: Enhance the use of enabling technology, in particular information and communications technology, to promote the empowerment of women
  • GIF Target/SDG 5.C: Adopt and strengthen sound policies and enforceable legislation for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls at all levels
• Performance indicator: Increase quality and consistency of GBA Plus across all sectors and functional areas
  • Starting point: Inconsistent application and quality of CCGBA Plus across and between sectors and functional areas
  • Target: Completion of CCGBA Plus strategy implementation plan, including logic model and indicators, by March 31, 2025.^{Footnote roman numeral 7vii}
  • Target: Support sectors to apply CCGBA Plus by developing ISC-specific and function-specific CCGBA Plus guidance, guidelines, training, and other resources (2025 and ongoing).
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: In Spring 2024, ISC completed its GBA Plus reporting and accountability framework aimed at helping the department more accurately identify and address gaps in GBA Plus capacity and implementation. With implementation scheduled for 2024-2025, this framework will ensure the department is better equipped to enhance the quality and consistency of GBA Plus across all sectors.
      
      The GBA Plus Responsibility Centre continued its efforts to support ISC programs and internal services, providing advice on integrating GBA Plus into their work. This support has contributed to improvements in applying GBA Plus, ensuring a more inclusive approach in policy development, program design, service delivery, and internal services.
      
      While progress has been made, challenges remain in achieving full consistency across all areas. The approval of the GBA Plus framework is an important step toward meeting this goal, and ongoing efforts, such as the development of ISC-specific guidance and resources, will further strengthen the application of GBA Plus in the coming years.
      1. Approval of GBA Plus Strategy Implementation Plan, including a theory of change and performance indicators (Q1, 2024-25) – The framework has been completed and approval is expected in 2024-25.
      2. Develop ISC-Specific Guidance and Resources (by March 31, 2025) – Work is underway to create sector-specific tools and training to ensure that GBA Plus is applied consistently and effectively. Ongoing support from the Responsibility Centre will be critical in meeting this target.
      General GBA Plus planning and reporting continues in the Departmental Plan and Departmental Results Report, ensuring accountability and transparency in tracking GBA Plus progress across the department.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result:
      • Target 1: Met. In April 2024, the ISC GBA Plus Implementation Strategy was approved by senior management.
      • Target 2: Met. Over the year, the GBA Plus Responsibility Centre provided advice and developed guidance, resources and training to several sectors and functional areas, including:
        • Advice on over 227 policy document drafts related to 131 policy initiatives
        • Drafted and delivered ISC-specific GBA Plus guidance for Treasury Board Submissions to support more consistent and high quality application of GBA Plus in Treasury Board Submissions.
        • Developed and integrated guidance on designing and implementing GBA Plus compatible program indicators and of a more rigorous approach to connecting GBA Plus findings to results
        • Developed and hosted eight learning events to approximately 350 participants, including function-specific learning events
      • Notes: With respect to the indicator: In August 2024, the GBA Plus Responsibility Centre started consistently collecting evidence on GBA Plus in Memoranda to Cabinet, Treasury Board Submissions and Budget proposals, assessing quality in seven areas:
        1. Identification (of impacts and groups impacted)
        2. Cultural competence
        3. Intersectionality
        4. Evidence Use
        5. Evidence Collection
        6. Integration (in options and recommendations)_
        7. Action (implementation and mitigation measures)

        Results from 2024-25 will contribute to establishing a baseline in 2025-26 upon which progress can be measured over the coming years.

The vision for ISC's Quality Improvement and Accreditation program is that First Nations and Inuit individuals, families and communities access and manage accredited health services that meet their needs. It is a continuous process that facilitates access to culturally safe, high-quality health services that meet evidence-based standards and increases credibility and partnerships with regional health systems and peers.

Through investments in the Quality Improvement and Accreditation Program, ISC advances accreditation of health organizations, which can play a pivotal role in mitigating systemic barriers to gender equity by implementing standards that address the following issues identified in research findings:

• Multiple studies have indicated that individuals feel unsafe within the healthcare system due to anti-LGBTQI+ bias, resulting in delays in seeking necessary care and treatment.
• Many two-spirit and LGBTQ Indigenous Canadians have expressed concerns about discrimination based on factors such as HIV status, sexual orientation, or identity, which has deterred them from accessing healthcare services.
• Additionally, alarmingly high rates of lifetime suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among two-spirit and LGBTQ Aboriginal populations underscore the urgent need for action.
• Privacy and confidentiality concerns have been raised in small rural and on-reserve community health settings, particularly impacting two-spirit individuals.
• Finally, a Trans research project discovered that 61% of Indigenous respondents had unmet healthcare needs, emphasizing the importance of addressing these disparities through accreditation standards.

• Program: Health Systems Support
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition 5.1: Eliminate gender-based violence and harassment
  • CIF Target 5.1: Fewer women are victims of intimate partner violence and sexual assault
  • CIF Ambition 5.2: Gender equality in leadership roles and at all levels of decision-making
  • CIF Target 5.2: Greater representation of women in leadership roles
  • CIF Ambition 5.3: Canadians share responsibilities within households and families
  • CIF Target 5.3: Equal sharing of parenting roles and family responsibilities
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: In 2023-24, the department advanced several Indigenous-led quality improvement initiatives through project-based funding focused on addressing and emphasizing the importance of addressing these disparities through accreditation standards. ISC will continue to look for opportunities in collaboration with partners to address systemic barriers to gender equity and gaps in health services.
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: In 2024-25, the department made progress through the following efforts:
    • Nursing Station Accreditation: Imperative for ISC transformation and devolution, accreditation is key to increasing high quality and culturally safe health care services, this was achieved by:
      • Advancing accreditation in ISC managed nursing stations to address critical areas of high risk to patient safety including one nursing station ( Manitoba Region) achieving primer accreditation award status and approximately 3 others in process.
      • First phase of Integration of accreditation standards into clinical and client care on a national level, including stakeholder engagement with Health Standards Organization (HSO) to complete a gap analysis as a step to identify areas of focus for Quality Improvement and integration of accreditation standards.
    • Partnerships:
      • Revised and improved Accreditation assessment programs delivered through two accrediting bodies.
      • Supported recruitment of Indigenous surveyors and Indigenous advisory group.
      • Supported development and implementation of standards that are Indigenous led.
      • Funded virtual, facilitator-led course by partners (AccrediReady) that was successfully delivered to 49 participants across two cohorts (Fall 2024 and Spring 2025) and was designed to strengthen foundational knowledge in continuous quality improvement and accreditation readiness.
    • Indigenous-led Quality Improvement work:
      • Conducted an analysis demonstrating the breadth of considerations for a comprehensive and flexible compensation model that builds capacity for community governed nursing services, culture and prioritizing sustainability.
      • Worked with partners FNHMA to advance a National Indigenous community of practice for accreditation and quality improvement. Activities have included:
        1. plenary session, "Celebrating Quality Community Care," on November 7, 2024 with over 100 participants
        2. Analysis identifying supportive factors and barriers that First Nations organizations encountered in the accreditation process
        3. recommendations to improve the accreditation process and funding structure.
    • Regional community-focused work:
      • Quality Improvement resource support for Indigenous community-based health organizations that provide a range of services in the spectrum of Long term Continuum of Care (LTCC) to create a foundation for high quality health services that meet national standards including building HR capacity.
      • Delivery of a two day Accreditation workshop to 15 participants representing 9 communities across the Atlantic Region who are engaged in accreditation. The workshop increased knowledge about accreditation and Quality Improvement as well as established a foundation for a regional network to share successes, best practices, and common challenges regarding accreditation and continuous quality improvement.

Departmental Action: Work with First Nations to take action in support of the commitment to eliminate remaining long-term drinking water advisories on reserves and increase efforts to ensure that long-term investments and resources are in place to prevent future ones.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: ISC takes measures to support First Nations-led engagement processes, co-develop long-term strategies for sustainable drinking water and wastewater, and invest in water and wastewater assets, including their operation and maintenance. Ongoing support is provided to First Nations to lift all long-term drinking water advisories affecting on reserve public First Nations drinking water systems financially supported by ISC. The performance of public water systems on reserve is assessed annually and includes a risk assessment that evaluates an extensive set of factors that could lead to problems with the wastewater systems. Low risk ratings indicate that the systems operate with minor or no deficiencies.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to drinking water and use it in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Target 6.1: All of the long-term drinking water advisories on public systems on reserve are to be resolved
  • CIF Indicator 6.1.1: Number of long-term drinking water advisories on public systems on reserves
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.5: By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.b: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management
• Performance indicator: Percentage of on-reserve public water systems financially supported by ISC that have a low-risk rating
  • Starting point: 57% (2019-20)
  • Target: At least 70% by 2026^{Footnote 21}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: The 2022-23 results were previously unavailable and have since been determined as 59.7%. Data for water and wastewater reporting lags by a year due to the Annual Performance Inspection cycle. Results for 2023-24 are expected to become available in 2024-25.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 63.8 (2023-24)^{Footnote 22}
    • Notes: 59.7% in 2022-23

Departmental Action: Support all First Nations communities in ensuring they have ongoing access to a trained Community Based Drinking Water Quality Monitor or an Environmental Public Health Officer to sample and test the drinking water for potential bacteriological contamination in order to minimize potential negative health impacts.^{Footnote roman numeral 10x}

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention / Community Infrastructure^{Footnote roman numeral 11xi}
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: The Environmental Health Officers and the Community-Based Water Monitors ensure proper sampling and testing procedures are undertaken in First Nations communities to determine whether or not water is suitable for consumption by identifying the presence of potential pathogens.
  
  ISC collaborates with First Nations communities and provides funding for community-based water monitoring. By ensuring technical support and expertise, potential concerns can be identified, and recommendations can be provided to the Chief and Council for action. ISC also assists First Nations in monitoring drinking water quality, providing advice on safety and wastewater disposal, and reviewing infrastructure project proposals from a public health perspective. These measures contribute to understanding drinking water quality issues and their resolution.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to drinking water and use it in a sustainable manner
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.1: By 2030, achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.5: By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.b: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management
• Performance indicator: Percentage of First Nations drinking water systems that meet the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality
  • Starting point: 94% (2019-20)
  • Target: 97% of ISC-funded First Nations water systems meet bacteriological quality standards by 2026
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: The 2022-23 results were previously unavailable and have since been determined as 96.8%. Data for water and wastewater reporting lags by a year due to the Annual Performance Inspection cycle. Results for 2023-24 are expected to become available in 2024-25. Results for 2023-24 are expected to become available in 2024-25.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 97.5% (2023-2024)
    • Notes: 96.8% in 2022-23
• Performance indicator: Percentage of First Nation communities that have access to a Community-based Water Monitor or an Environmental Public Health Officer to sample and test drinking water quality at the tap
  • Starting point: 100% (as of March 31, 2009)
  • Target: 100% by 2025^{Footnote roman numeral 12xii}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2023-24)
    • Notes: All community sites have access to an Environmental Public Health Officer should no primary and back-up Community Based Drinking Water Quality Monitor be available. However, in 2024-25, the department will look to increase insight into the number of Community Based Drinking Water Quality Monitor back-ups identified by the Bands or Chief and Council. According to the 2023-24 data, one community site in Manitoba does not have access to a primary Monitor. ISC is actively working with the community to identify and train an individual. Note that Ontario's data was not available at the time of reporting.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2023-24)^{Footnote 23}
    • Notes: All community sites have access to an Environmental Public Health Officer should no primary and back-up Community Based Drinking Water Quality Monitor be available. However, in 2024-25, the department will look to increase insight into the number of Community Based Drinking Water Quality Monitor back-ups identified by the Bands or Chief and Council. According to the 2023-24 data, one community site in Manitoba does not have access to a primary Monitor. ISC is actively working with the community to identify and train an individual. Note that Ontario's data was not available at the time of reporting.

Departmental Action: Support First Nations communities to assume control and delivery of water and wastewater services, including by transferring water and wastewater services in communities to the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• How the Departmental Action contributes to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: In alignment with Article 23 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, ISC is supporting First Nations and First Nations-led organizations to assume control of infrastructure service delivery.
  
  These actions will strengthen local and regional capacity for water and sanitation management and contribute to the goal of safe and clean water for all Canadians.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to drinking water and use it in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 6.b.1: Proportion of local administrative units with established and operational policies and procedures for participation of local communities in water and sanitation management
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.b: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management
• Performance indicator: Number of co-developed service delivery models based on community engagements within three years of initial investments
  • Starting point: 0 (as of March 31, 2021)
  • Target: 5 by 2027^{Footnote roman numeral 13xiii}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 2 (2023-24)
    • Notes: There are two service delivery models that have been developed with one that has been fully implemented (Atlantic First Nations Water Authority). There are two additional service delivery models currently in development. These co-developed models help to strengthen local involvement in managing water resources, aligning with national and global sustainability goals.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 4 (2024-2025)
    • Notes: There are four signed Framework Agreements that represent initiatives with explored, designed and/or planned implementation service delivery models. One service delivery model has been fully implemented (Atlantic First Nations Water Authority). These co-developed models help to strengthen local involvement in managing water resources, aligning with national and global sustainability goals.

Departmental Action: Implement the Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations mandatory minimum effluent quality standards through secondary wastewater treatment and other federal activities.

Support First Nations to design, plan, construct, operate and maintain wastewater systems that meet Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations requirements on reserve.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Untreated and undertreated wastewater (sewage) in waterways is an environmental, human health and economic issue. The Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations include mandatory minimum effluent quality standards that can be achieved through secondary wastewater treatment and are intended to help keep water clean for both human consumption and animals that live in or near the water. By supporting First Nations to ensure that wastewater systems on reserve meet Wastewater Systems Effluent Regulations, Indigenous Service Canada will contribute to the goal of ensuring that water is safe and clean for all Canadians.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe reuse globally
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.5: By 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate
  • GIF Target/SDG 6.b: Support and strengthen the participation of local communities in improving water and sanitation management
• Performance indicator: Percentage of on-reserve public wastewater systems financially supported by ISC that have a low-risk rating
  • Starting point: 48% (2019-20)
  • Target: 69% by 2026^{Footnote roman numeral 14xiv}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: The 2022-23 results were previously unavailable and have since been determined as 41.7%. Due to lingering effects of the pandemic, annual performance inspections in 2022-23 did not include all regions, altering the base number of systems inspected. As a result, the percentage of low-risk systems appears significantly lower in 2022-23 compared to 2019-20. We do expect that the numbers will be corrected for the next reporting period. Data for water and wastewater reporting lags by a year due to the Annual Performance Inspection cycle. Results for 2023-24 are expected to become available in 2024-25.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 48.1% (2023-24)^{Footnote 24}
• Performance indicator: Percentage of wastewater systems on reserve where effluent quality standards are achieved
  • Starting point: 59.8% (2021-22)
  • Target: 85% by 2030
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: Data for water and wastewater reporting lags by a year due to the Annual Performance Inspection cycle. Results for 2023-24 are expected to become available in 2024-25.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 67.4% (2023-24)^{Footnote 25}

Departmental Action: Advance development of clean and renewable energy through collaboration with Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC), Infrastructure Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, and the Indigenous Council formed under Wah-ila-toos.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: As part of the Wah-ila-toos initiative (an initiative administered by Natural Resources Canada, Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, and ISC), ISC is contributing to SDG 7 by working with Wah-ila-toos to reduce dependence on diesel-powered electricity on reserve, stemming from Budget 2021's $300 million in Off-Diesel funding.
  
  This interdepartmental initiative was gifted the name Wah-ila-toos following a sacred name gifting ceremony held by Grandmothers and Elders. The name Wah-ila-toos represents our collective responsibility to uphold our good relations with each other.
  
  The Wah-ila-toos initiative was established to streamline coordination of federal departments implementing funding programs for the reduction of diesel fuel use in Indigenous, rural, and remote communities. This single-window approach to federal funding to support capacity building and clean energy projects includes the participation of NRCan, CIRNAC, and ISC, as well as ECCC and HICC. A distinctions-based Indigenous Council was established to provide guidance and advice on programs and policy development. The Indigenous Council recently finalized recommendations to support the clean energy transition in Indigenous, rural and remote communities through their report Kinship & Prosperity. As of the end of 2023-24, the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program had signed 187 agreements (grants and contributions); of which, 49 under the Bioheat stream, 11 for the Deployment stream, 31 for the Demonstration stream, 66 for Capacity Building stream, and 30 co-delivered agreements with the Strategic Partnership Initiative at ISC and the Indigenous Off-Diesel Initiative at NRCan.^{Footnote roman numeral 17xvii}
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians reduce their energy consumption
  • GIF Target/SDG 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services
  • GIF Target/SDG 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
• Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous clients reporting easier access to clean energy programming
  • Starting point: 0% in 2021 when Wah-ila-toos was launched
  • Target: 90% by 2027
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Not available
    • Notes: This departmental action has been moved to support the government's goal of Clean Energy to better align with the work undertaken by the department. The program will be reviewing the performances measure to identify ISC-specific data that supports progress to clean energy in Indigenous communities. In 2023-24, 73 Indigenous clean energy projects were support through our Strategic Partnerships Initiatives Clean Energy Initiatives.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Not available (2023-24)^{Footnote 26}
    • Notes: More information on Wah-lia-toos.
• Performance indicator: Percentage of Indigenous Peoples participating in engagement sessions that say it was meaningful and inclusive
  • Starting point: 0% in 2021 when Wah-ila-toos was launched
  • Target: 70% by 2027
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Not available
    • Notes: This departmental action has been moved to support the government's goal of Clean Energy to better align with the work undertaken by the department. The program will be reviewing the performances measure to identify ISC-specific data that supports progress to clean energy in Indigenous communities. In 2023-24, 73 Indigenous clean energy projects were support through our Strategic Partnerships Initiatives Clean Energy Initiatives.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Not available (2023-24)^{Footnote 27}
    • Notes: More information on Wah-lia-toos.

Departmental Action: Work with partners to advance the Indigenous Climate Leadership Agenda to support the clean energy transition for diesel-reliant remote and Indigenous communities, support capacity and development of economically sustainable clean energy projects.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: With this Clean Energy funding, the Strategic Partnerships Initiative has stood up clean energy initiatives in Atlantic, Quebec, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia (renewal), as well as entered into a partnership with Indigenous Clean Energy social enterprise. Additional funding is needed to support the development of Clean Energy Regional Initiatives in Manitoba and Ontario.
  
  This indicator captures new programming under the Strategic Partnerships Initiative from 2021 to 2024.
  
  Budget 2024 renewed the Strategic Partnerships Initiative program's clean energy funding of $36 million over three years starting in 2024. This funding will help to build capacity for local, economically sustainable clean energy projects in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and support economic development opportunities. Additionally, the Community Opportunity Readiness Program has recently provided funding for First Nation and Inuit communities to invest in clean energy projects, as one of the eligible types of economic opportunities. The program funds a portion of the project budget for communities to plan and implement economic and business investments in development opportunities. These community-owned businesses generate jobs, own-source revenues, and provide goods and services to benefit their community members.^{Footnote roman numeral 18xviii}
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians reduce their energy consumption
  • GIF Target/SDG 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services
  • GIF Target/SDG 7.2: By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
• Performance indicator: Number of projects funded to support First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities' clean energy capacity and readiness
  • Starting point: One regional clean energy initiative stood up in British Columbia started in 2016, with renewal in 2021
  • Target: Five (5) new regional Indigenous clean energy initiatives by 2027^{Footnote roman numeral 19xix}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 4 (2023-24)
    • Notes: In 2023-24, four new regional Indigenous clean energy initiatives were funded in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Atlantic Canada, as well as a partnership formed with the national Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) social enterprise. Additional funding was also provided to British Columbia in 2023-24. This brings the total to five regional initiatives funded. Through these efforts, 112 Indigenous communities have benefitted from clean energy projects, resulting in 805 training and employment opportunities and the creation of 1,971 jobs for Indigenous individuals. In addition, the Community Opportunity Readiness Program contributed funding for two wind energy projects in the Atlantic Region and a solar energy project in Alberta.
      
      These projects have contributed to building capacity for local, economically-sustainable clean energy initiatives in First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. This investment plays a complementary and enabling role in the advancement of Canada's Strengthened Climate Plan and Indigenous Climate Leadership agenda.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 4 (2023-24)^{Footnote 28}
    • Notes: In 2023-24, four new regional Indigenous clean energy initiatives were funded in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Atlantic Canada, as well as a partnership formed with the national Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) social enterprise. Additional funding was also provided to British Columbia in 2023-24. This brings the total to five regional initiatives funded. Through these efforts, 112 Indigenous communities have benefitted from clean energy projects, resulting in 805 training and employment opportunities and the creation of 1,971 jobs for Indigenous individuals. In addition, the Community Opportunity Readiness Program contributed funding for two wind energy projects in the Atlantic Region and a solar energy project in Alberta.
      
      These projects have contributed to building capacity for local, economically-sustainable clean energy initiatives in First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. This investment plays a complementary and enabling role in the advancement of Canada's Strengthened Climate Plan and Indigenous Climate Leadership agenda.

Departmental Action: Invest in clean and efficient energy projects in First Nations communities.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: ISC is supporting projects to facilitate First Nations efforts to transition from diesel to clean, reliable and affordable energy systems through a combination of alternative energy projects featuring solar, hydroelectric, wind and others clean energy. These projects aim to reduce communities' use of diesel for heat and power so that a greater proportion of their energy consumption comes from non-fossil fuel sources. Diesel can remain available as a backup power and heat generation source. The Department is also supporting First Nations communities to improve and optimize energy systems through upgrades and energy efficiency projects.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition 7.3: Canadians have access to clean and renewable energy
• Performance indicator: Number of efficiency or clean energy related projects completed
  • Starting point: 32 projects as of September 30, 2020
  • Target: 82 projects by 2028 (cumulative since 2016)
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 51 projects (since 2016, as of March 31, 2024)
    • Notes: ISC is contributing to the CIF Ambition 7.3 by supporting First Nations efforts to transition from fossil fuel to clean, reliable and affordable energy systems through a combination of alternative energy projects featuring solar, hydroelectric, wind and others. ISC is also supporting communities to improve and optimize energy systems through upgrades and energy efficiency projects.
      
      There are currently 44 First Nations communities that are dependent on diesel for electricity within Canada (excluding the territories). In 28 of these communities, ISC provides funds to assist First Nations in offering comparable and reliable electricity services. The remaining communities are served by provincial utilities. These diesel-dependent communities range in size from fewer than 40 to over 2,500 residents.
      
      ISC is supporting projects to facilitate First Nations to transition from diesel to clean energy. These projects aim to reduce the community's use of diesel for heat and power so that a greater proportion of their energy consumption comes from non-fossil fuel sources. Diesel can remain available as a backup power and heat generation source.
      
      In partnership with ISC, the First Nations-led and owned Northern Ontario Grid Connection Project (also known as the Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project) is helping 16 remote First Nations communities in northern Ontario connect to the provincial electricity grid. The project is providing clean, safe and reliable energy that will positively impact the health and safety of community members and expand infrastructure and economic development opportunities for the communities involved.
      • "Wataynikaneyap" means "line that brings light" in Anishiniiniimowin. The name was chosen by Elders from the communities involved in the project.
      • In December 2018, Pikangikum First Nation was the first of the 16 communities to be grid connected. North Caribou Lake First Nation and Kingfisher First Nation were connected in 2022. Bearskin Lake, Wawakapewin, Wunnumin Lake, Kasabonika Lake, Sachigo Lake, Wapekeka, and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug were connected in 2023. The six remaining connections will be staggered throughout 2024. For more information and updates on the Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project, please refer to the Wataynikaneyap Power website.

      In addition, the Department is currently supporting the development and construction of a run-of-the-river hydropower facility in Dzawada'enuxw First Nation, British Columbia. The 350 kW Padakus Hydropower Project will be developed 2.3 km west of Gwa'yi village in Kingcome Inlet and is anticipated to replace over 90% of the diesel-generated electricity with clean power.
      
      In partnership with ISC and the provinces, remote First Nations are proposing projects in various stages of development. ISC is working with these First Nations to identify and access funds from a variety of available sources and other government departments.
      
      Since 2016 and as of March 31, 2024, ISC has invested $363.8 million of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 208 energy systems projects, 137 of which are complete. Of these, 51 were efficiency or clean energy related projects. These projects will benefit 184 communities serving approximately 200,000 people.

  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 54
    • Notes: Cumulative since 2016.
      
      ISC is contributing to the CIF Ambition 7.3 by supporting First Nations efforts to transition from fossil fuel to clean, reliable and affordable energy systems through a combination of alternative energy projects featuring solar, hydroelectric, wind and others. ISC is also supporting communities to improve and optimize energy systems through upgrades and energy efficiency projects.
      
      There are currently 38 First Nations communities that are dependent on diesel for electricity within Canada (excluding the territories). In 22 of these communities, ISC provides funds to assist First Nations in offering comparable and reliable electricity services. The remaining communities are served by provincial utilities. These diesel-dependent communities range in size from fewer than 40 to over 2,500 residents.
      
      Since 2016 and as of March 31, 2025, ISC has invested $1.88 billion of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 233 energy systems projects, 153 of which are complete. Of these, 54 were efficiency or clean energy related projects. These projects will benefit 185 communities serving approximately 204,000 people.

Departmental Action: Collaborate with provinces and territories through Regional Energy and Resources Tables to implement a mines-to-mobility supply chain strategy, increase the labour market participation of Persons with Disabilities, and adopt a sector-specific approach to workforce support. Additionally, ISC will test community-based solutions for national and regional priorities.

• Program: Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: As part of our commitment to inclusivity and economic growth, we actively support the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program (AEP), which seeks to increase the number of viable businesses in Canada owned and controlled by Indigenous Peoples. The AEP funds a broad range of entrepreneurial pursuits and aims to build capacity, reduce barriers, and increase access to capital through strategic partnerships that will enhance economic opportunities for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people.
  
  The AEP provides $34.5 million in annual funding to support economic development for First Nations, Inuit and Métis entrepreneurs by offering non-repayable equity contributions to support entrepreneurs to start, expand or acquire a business, as well as diverse business services. It also supports loan interests, capacity building and training for Indigenous Financial Institutions. Through collaboration with communities, Indigenous economic development organizations (such as the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association), and other internal and external partners, improvements are being made to accessing capital; promoting a climate of economic development within communities; and, ensuring full economic participation of Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs in the Canadian economy, according to community vision and needs.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition 8.1: Canadians have access to quality jobs
  • CIF Ambition 8.5: Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth
  • CIF Indicator 8.5.1: Gross domestic product per capita
  • CIF Indicator 8.1.1: Unemployment rate
  • GIF Target/SDG 8.3: Promote development-oriented policies that support productive activities, decent job creation, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, and encourage the formalization and growth of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises, including through access to financial services
  • GIF Target/SDG 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value
  • GIF Target/SDG 8.10: Strengthen the capacity of domestic financial institutions to encourage and expand access to banking, insurance and financial services for all
• Performance indicator: Number of Indigenous-owned and controlled businesses being created or expanded in Canada
  • Starting point: 914 (2021 to 2022)^{Footnote roman numeral 21xxi}
  • Target: 1,000 annually
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 1,080 (2022-23)
    • Notes: Given the timing of reporting and availability of results from the data source (NACCA Annual Report), results reported are from the previous fiscal year, i.e. the results reported in the 2023-24 column refers to the 2022-23 year.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 1,105 (2023-24)^{Footnote 29}

ISC invests in connectivity projects in First Nations communities through the First Nation Infrastructure Fund and collaborates with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on the Universal Broadband Fund. Ensuring that First Nations have access to internet speeds comparable to those of other Canadians is a major step towards delivering on key government priorities, such as reliable public infrastructure and reconciliation.

Reliable high-speed internet is an essential tool for everyone. Increased internet speeds will facilitate First Nations communities' participation in the modern digital economy, allow for effective operation and maintenance of vital community infrastructure, and enhance the delivery of important socio-economic services, such as healthcare, education, and emergency and public safety services.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure^{Footnote roman numeral 22xxii}
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: Since 2016 and as of March 31, 2024, ISC has invested $97.3 million of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 52 Connectivity projects, 33 of which are complete. These projects will benefit 291 communities, serving approximately 319,000 people. A few examples of ongoing projects include:
    • Peerless Trout First Nation, Alberta, is constructing two towers and facilities to expand cellular wireless mobility. Cellular mobility coverage will be available in the residential areas of Peerless Trout First Nation, Peerless Lake and Trout Lake, and on Highway 686.
    • Meadow Lake Tribal Council connectivity project, which will bring rapid and reliable broadband internet to nine First Nations in northwestern Saskatchewan. The project is co-funded by ISED and ISC.

    ISC also continues to collaborate with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on the roll out of the $3.225 billion Universal Broadband Fund which is part of the Government of Canada's coordinated plan to connect all Canadians to high-speed internet.
    
    Reliable high-speed internet is an essential tool for everyone. Increased internet speeds will significantly improve First Nations' ability to participate in the modern digital economy, allow for the effective operation and maintenance of vital community infrastructure, and enhance the delivery of important socio-economic services such as healthcare, education, and emergency and public safety services. Ensuring that First Nations have access to internet speeds comparable to other Canadians is a major step toward delivering on key government priorities, such as reliable public infrastructure and reconciliation.

• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: Since 2016 and as of March 31, 2025, ISC has invested $104.6 million of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 65 Connectivity projects, 39 of which are complete. (Two of these projects were co-funded by ISED's Connect to Innovate program: Connected Coast in British Columbia, and Matawa First Nations Management in Ontario). These projects will benefit 305 communities, serving approximately 334,000 people. Of these projects, six were completed in fiscal year 2024-2025.
    
    In December 2024, cellular service was launched in Taku River Tlingit First Nation following the construction of a new microwave cellular tower in Atlin, British Columbia. The mobile connectivity project was co-funded by ISC, who provided crucial initial project funding, and by Taku River Tlingit First Nation, Northwestel, Bell Mobility, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), and the Province of British Columbia. The project served as a catalyst for investment in the community, where a new broadband connectivity project funded by Northwestel is now underway to bring fibre internet to Taku River Tlingit First Nation.
    
    A few examples of ongoing projects include:
    • A joint investment by ISED, Northern Development and Mines Ontario and ISC will bring high-speed internet access to five fly-in Matawa First Nations communities in Northern Ontario. The 880 km fibre-optic cable network will replace unreliable satellite connections and resolve long-standing internet issues for these five communities.
    • The Connected Coast project involves the installation of 3,500 km of subsea fibre-optic cable from Prince Rupert south to Vancouver and around Vancouver Island in British Columbia. This investment in high-capacity networks will make it possible for residents of 139 communities in remote and underserved areas, including 44 First Nations communities, to participate fully in the digital economy. The project is being co-funded by ISED, ISC and the Province of British Columbia.

    ISC also continues to collaborate with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada on the roll out of the $3.225 billion Universal Broadband Fund which is part of the Government of Canada's coordinated plan to connect all Canadians to high-speed internet.
    
    Reliable high-speed internet is an essential tool for everyone. Increased internet speeds will significantly improve First Nations' ability to participate in the modern digital economy, allow for the effective operation and maintenance of vital community infrastructure, and enhance the delivery of important socio-economic services such as healthcare, education, and emergency and public safety services. Ensuring that First Nations have access to internet speeds comparable to other Canadians is a major step toward delivering on key government priorities, such as reliable public infrastructure and reconciliation.
    
    The projects supported narrowing the connectivity gap, which is particularly important in Saskatchewan, where 10% of First Nations have connectivity compared to 48% of rural and 99% of urban communities; Alberta, where of 27% First Nations have connectivity compared to 41% of rural and 99% of urban communities; and Ontario, where 33% of First Nations have connectivity compared to 57% of rural and 99% of urban communities.
    
    In 2024-25, as of December 31, 2024, ISC financially supported the following connectivity projects:

    • Completed:
      • Peerless Trout First Nation, Alberta: construction of two towers and facilities to expand cellular wireless mobility.
      • Taku River Tlingit First Nation, British Columbia: construction of a new microwave cellular tower.
      • Meadow Lake Tribal Council, Saskatchewan: connectivity project to bring rapid and reliable broadband internet to nine First Nations communities.
      • Abegweit First Nation, Prince Edward Island: extension of fibre-optic cable.
    • Ongoing:
      • Five fly-in Matawa First Nations communities, Ontario: fibre-optic cable network to replace unreliable satellite connections.
      • Prince Rupert south to Vancouver and Vancouver Island, British Columbia: installation of subsea fiber-optic cable that would benefit 44 First Nations communities.

    Since 2016 and as of December 31, 2024, ISC has invested $98.1 million of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 56 Connectivity projects, 36 of which are complete. These projects will benefit 292 communities, serving approximately 322,000 people

The eHealth Infostructure Program aims to improve the efficiency of health care delivery to First Nations individuals, families, and communities through the use of digital health technologies. This facilitates data collection, communication, management, and utilization, and enables front-line care providers to better deliver health services. The eHealth Program supports and enables public health surveillance; health services delivery (primary and community care included); health reporting, planning and decision-making; and, integration/compatibility with other health service delivery partners.

Through investments in the eHealth Infostructure Program, ISC also aims to improve connectivity for healthcare facilities in remote First Nations communities. It aligns with Canada's Connectivity Strategy's objectives of "broadband speeds of at least 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload" and "mobile wireless coverage is available where Canadians live and work, and along major road corridors". The program funds broadband connectivity installations and works to increase and sustain better access to healthcare services in these communities.

Planned activities involve expanding connectivity deployments using newer technologies such as Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOs) where alternative means (e.g., fibre optics) are limited or not feasible.

• Program: Primary Health Care
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure^{Footnote roman numeral 23xxiii}
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: In 2023-24, the eHealth Infostructure program continued to support the maintenance of 300 digital health records, such as electronic medical records or reports, in approximately 55% of First Nations communities and worked closely with national partners such as Canada Health Infoway to continue the implementation of these intricate systems. In addition, as moving towards the use of digital health records is a priority for First Nations, community-based health professionals (e.g., nurses) continued the transition from paper records towards digital health records to manage complex patient files, drug and health information. In 2023-24, there were 270 active ISC telehealth sites at the community level offering a wide range of services including tele-visitation for family members, tele-education for workers and community members, tele-diabetes, and tele-mental health. Of these sites, there were over 9,000 telehealth sessions conducted in First Nation communities (over 75% were clinical sessions).
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: In 2023-24, there were 274 active ISC telehealth sites at the community level offering a wide range of services including tele-visitation for family members, tele-education for workers and community members, tele-diabetes, and tele-mental health. Of these sites, there were over 11,000 telehealth sessions conducted in First Nation communities (83% were clinical sessions).
    
    The use of Low-Earth Orbit satellites in First Nations health facilities and nursing residences provides access to green technology across the Regions receiving funding for digital health from Indigenous Services Canada.

The Land Use Planning Initiative supports First Nations communities in building capacity for effective land management, including the development and implementation of a land use plan that defines a clear vision for the community based on their priorities and strategies for the use and development of their lands and resources in accordance with their aspirations, needs and interests. First Nations supported under this initiative are acknowledging the importance of integrating climate change considerations and effective infrastructure planning into their land use plans. For example, land use plans may include the construction of green energy infrastructure like wind and solar farms on reserves as well as policies designed to reduce or minimize greenhouse gas emissions in existing infrastructure and in construction, transportation, and industry activities on reserves.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure
  • GIF Indicator/SDG 9.1 and 9.4: By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: The Land Use Planning Initiative offers proposal-based funding through Indigenous partners to First Nations, supporting activities that strengthen capacity for land use planning. This enables communities to define, develop, and implement their own vision for utilizing and managing their lands and resources. To date, 169 Land Use Plans have been completed, including two since 2023-24. Starting in 2023-24, ISC began an investment of $47 million over 5 years to achieve a goal of an additional 55 Land Use Plans, as well as updating the current plans to maintain their relevance and effectiveness.
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: The Land Use Planning Initiative offers proposal-based funding through Indigenous partners to First Nations, supporting activities that build and strengthen capacity for land use planning. This enables communities to define, develop, and implement their own vision for utilizing and managing their lands and resources. At the end of 2024-25, there are 181 First Nations with a Land Use Plan, including 12 additional that have been completed in this fiscal year. In the first two years of the five-year investment of $47 million, funding has been provided for 61 First Nations to develop a Land Use Plan, 12 First Nations to complete implementation activities related to their Land Use Plans (e.g., Action Plans, developing by-laws, etc.), and 4 First Nations to update their Land Use Plans.

Departmental Action: Contribute to the development of indicators and targets towards the implementation of Action Plan measures for which ISC has accountability, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous partners, through Justice Canada's whole-of government, co-developed process, according to timelines and results to be co-determined. This includes measures related to the obligation to ensure bills and regulations are consistent with the UN Declaration.

Consult and cooperate with Indigenous Peoples on the review of and development of new/amended legislation, and regulations.

• Program: All
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: The department supports the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act by building foundational pieces to support community-led control of programs and services and through the ongoing co-design and transfer of programs and services. All of these are critical to advancing self-determination and increasing equity—key objectives of the Act and of the reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.
  
  The Action Plan released in June 2023 provides a roadmap of actions Canada needs to take in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to implement the principles and rights set out in the UN Declaration and to further advance reconciliation in a tangible way.
  
  The Plan also commits to engage and consult with Indigenous partners to establish various implementation, monitoring and oversight processes.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard
• Performance indicator: Number of laws and regulations that have been reviewed, developed, or amended for consistency with the UN Declaration in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples.
  • Starting point: New legislated obligation – June 2021
  • Target: 100% annually
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result:
    • Notes: Ongoing work has been conducted to review, develop, and amend laws and regulations to ensure consistency with the UN Declaration, in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples. A key initiative is An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families, which affirms Indigenous jurisdiction over child and family services. Since its coming into force, 81 Indigenous governing bodies representing over 111 communities have submitted notices related to exercising jurisdiction, leading to eight signed agreements. Discussions on coordination agreements continue, and a legislative review is planned for 2025.
      
      ISC has also been collaborating with Indigenous partners on the development of a distinctions-based Long-Term and Continuing Care framework to support functional independence within home communities. Engagement activities completed in 2022 continue to inform this work, with options for a Métis component under co-development and final reports expected in 2024.
      
      ISC further demonstrated its commitment by launching the Indigenous Health Equity Fund, a $2 billion, ten-year initiative aimed at addressing the unique challenges Indigenous Peoples face in accessing culturally safe and high-quality healthcare. This fund reflects ISC's long-term commitment to supporting Indigenous self-determination in health by fostering Indigenous-led approaches to healthcare service delivery.
      
      From Fall 2022 to June 2023, ISC launched distinctions-based co-development processes for Indigenous health legislation, engaging First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and other Indigenous partners. Through these processes, self-determination in health emerged as a key priority, shaping potential legislative measures. ISC shared these proposals with partners in a Key Elements document and, based on significant feedback, took time to carefully review the input and explore options for a meaningful path forward. Discussions are ongoing on how to approach the next phases of our work, whether it be from a legislative and/or policy based approach.
      
      In addition, Budget 2024 provided ISC with $167.6 million over the next five years, starting in 2024-25, to combat anti-Indigenous racism in Canada's health systems. The renewed funding will continue supporting Indigenous patient advocates, health system navigators, midwives, and birth support workers, as well as initiatives to increase Indigenous representation in the health profession. These measures work to foster health systems free from racism and discrimination where Indigenous Peoples are treated with the respect and safety they deserve, in line with Joyce's Principle.
      
      Additional legislative efforts in 2023-24 include co-developing two regulations under the First Nations Commercial and Industrial Development Act. These regulations support major development projects, such as the Squamish Nation's residential developments in British Columbia and Fort McKay First Nation's oil sands mine in Alberta. Both were co-developed with the respective Nations, provincial governments, and ISC, ensuring alignment with Indigenous rights and priorities.
      
      In emergency management, ISC is prioritizing Indigenous rights and perspectives by aligning its programs with the principles of the UN Declaration. This work promotes Indigenous self-determination and resilience in emergency situations, contributing to more inclusive and equitable emergency responses.
      
      Furthermore, ISC has supported governance and self-determination through the New Fiscal Relationship 10-Year Grant. By 2023-24, 25% of First Nations were participating in the grant, with $1.3 billion transferred. The Grant Funding Escalator, which increased by $30 million in 2023-24, is addressing inflation and population growth.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result:
    • Notes: The Family Violence Prevention Program continues to achieve its commitments under the UN Declaration in consultation and cooperation with Indigenous Peoples, including: supporting and collaborating with the National Indigenous Circle Against Family Violence as more emergency shelters and transition homes become operational across Canada. This is in addition to also working together to continue supporting community-driven violence prevention programming.

Departmental Action: Provide financial support, business advisory services, mentorship, and training opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

• Program: Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development / Internal Services^{Footnote roman numeral 25xxv}
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: ISC works in collaboration with First Nations to ensure an enabling regulatory and legislative environment for economic development on reserves. The department uses federal programming to advance economic opportunities in Indigenous communities, and increase economic capacity supports, including specialized training opportunities delivered by Indigenous-led organizations. By supporting a new Indigenous Tourism Fund, ISC aims to help the Indigenous tourism industry recover from the pandemic and position itself for long-term, sustainable growth. The department also aims to continue implementing the first Social Innovation and Social Finance Strategy to support social purpose organizations - including Indigenous economic actors - to access flexible financing opportunities that enable them to grow and enhance their impacts.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • CIF Indicator 10.1.1: Gini Coefficient
  • CIF Indicator 10.4.1: Median household after-tax income
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard
• Performance indicator: Percentage of federal contracts awarded to certified Indigenous businesses
  • Starting point: 17.68% (2022-23)
  • Target: 5% by 2026^{Footnote 30}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 13.44% (2023-24)
    • Notes: In its 2024-25 Departmental Plan, the department forecasted that, by the end of 2023-24, it would award 15% of the total value of its contracts to Indigenous businesses. However, only contracts awarded or amended in that year count toward the target, meaning large contracts awarded in previous years are not included unless amended.
      
      The department continued to support the implementation by 2024-25 of the mandatory minimum 5% target for federal procurement with Indigenous businesses. In 2023-24, 745 new Indigenous business were added to the Indigenous Business Directory, bringing the total number to 2,633 Indigenous businesses. Results of the Government of Canada's performance against the mandatory minimum 5% Indigenous procurement target for 2023-24 will be released by March 31, 2025.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 14.2% (2023-24)^{Footnote 31}
    • Notes: Between 2022-23 and 2023-24, the methodology used to calculate the result was adjusted to reflect the change in wording of the indicator to: "total value of federal contracts awarded to Indigenous businesses."
      
      In its 2024-25 Departmental Plan, the department forecasted that by the end of 2023-24, it would award 15% of the total value of its contracts to Indigenous businesses. In 2023-24, the department supported the implementation of the mandatory minimum 5% target for federal procurement with Indigenous businesses.

Departmental Action: Continue to implement Additions to Reserves as they advance reconciliation, fulfill legal obligations, improve treaty relationships, and foster economic opportunities. Additions to Reserve also allow First Nations to leverage their lands to attract investment, create employment and generate own source revenue.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: An Addition to Reserve is a parcel of land added to the existing reserve land of a First Nation or that creates a new reserve. Additions to Reserve also allow First Nations to leverage their lands to attract investment, create employment and generate own source revenue.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition 10.4: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status
• Performance indicator: Number of Additions to Reserves completed annually
  • Starting point: 40 (2022-23)
  • Target: 70 by 2026^{Footnote roman numeral 26xxvi}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 17 (2023-24)
    • Notes: Although funding was provided to First Nations to support Additions to Reserve, differing community priorities and the community-driven nature of the process impacted this year's result. So far, more than 75 First Nations have received allocated funding to advance their Additions to Reserve proposals.
      
      The department plans to continue working with Indigenous partners and stakeholders to redesign the federal Additions to Reserve and Reserve Creation Policy, and to accelerate progress on existing requests from First Nations across Canada. Budget 2021 allocated $43 million over four years to this initiative, with $32.2 million dedicated to reducing the current backlog.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 67 (2024-2025)

Supporting the advancement of self-determination with Indigenous partners is essential to reducing socioeconomic inequalities.

Identifying and closing gaps requires capacity and expertise on the part of Indigenous governments, in areas such as strategic planning, results-based management, and the interpretation of socioeconomic data.

The Indigenous Governance and Capacity program provides funding for core operations of First Nation governments and supports governance capacity building initiatives. Planned reforms will look to ensure that these programs provide First Nation governments with sufficient, predictable and flexible funding to hire and retain the appropriate financial and administrative staff to support good governance, plan for the future, and advance their vision of self-determination.

Closing socio-economic gaps is a central goal of economic reconciliation (PDF).

• Program: Indigenous Governance and Capacity Supports / Community Economic Development / Indigenous Entrepreneurship and Business Development
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition/Target: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • CIF Indicator 10.1.1: Gini Coefficient
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: ISC continued to collaborate with partners on exploring options for reforming the Indigenous Governance and Capacity programs. ISC also received two reports from Indigenous organizations (First Nations Financial Management Board and AFOA Canada), which informed these discussions. With effective governance, Indigenous governments can play a greater role in closing socioeconomic gaps, which is a central goal of economic reconciliation.
    
    The Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management (Framework Agreement) is a government-to-government agreement that enables participating First Nations to opt out of 44 sections of the Indian Act related to land and environmental management and replace them with a community-specific Land Code as a form of self-government. Under this agreement, operational First Nations receive predictable and flexible grants to manage their reserve lands. The Framework Agreement advances economic reconciliation through reclaiming jurisdiction and determination over land and environmental management led by the First Nation. In 2023-24, there were 7 new signatories to the Framework Agreement and 11 new operational communities, bringing the total number of signatories to 210 as of March 31, 2024, of which 112 First Nations had land codes.
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: In 2024-25, ISC continued technical collaboration with First Nations partners, including the Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Financial Management Board, and Aboriginal Financial Officers Association (AFOA) Canada at the Governance Modernization Working Group. Strengthening governance, planning, and engagement capacities enables Indigenous Nations to pursue their priorities and contribute more fully to discussions on infrastructure and economic initiatives of national significance.
  • Bill C-38: An Act to amend the Indian Act:
    • On December 14, 2022, the former Bill C-38: An Act to amend the Indian Act, (new registration entitlements) was introduced to remedy enfranchisement within the registration provisions of the Indian Act. With the prorogation of Parliament, all progress on the bill came to an end.
    • The Collaborative consultation Process on the Second Generation Cut-Off and Section 10 Voting Thresholds started with a co-design and co-development phase. In December 2024, a call for proposals for solutions to these issues was launched and closed on March 14, 2025.
    • The importance of both former Bill C-38 and consultation to address the second-generation cut-off were recognized in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan, published in June 2023 as First Nation Priority Item #7 and #8 respectively.
  • Economic Reconciliation Framework:
    • Engaged with the Indigenous Economic Council Working Group, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the Métis National Council, Modern Treaty and Self-Governing Agreement Nations, the Manitoba Métis Federation and the Assembly of First Nations on the development of an Economic Reconciliation Framework.
    • Funded the Indigenous Economic Council Working Group, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Métis National Council to develop their own engagement plans and undertake activities to engage with rights holders about economic challenges and barriers and to better understand economic priorities.
    • Subsequently co-developed policy proposals to advance economic reconciliation with these First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners.
    • Hosted the 2nd Economic Roundtable in May 2024 which included Indigenous leaders from National Indigenous Organizations and national Indigenous economic institutions, senior executives from Canada's financial sector, federal ministers and senior federal officials.

ISC's continued efforts to co-develop separate First Nations, Inuit and Métis health policy and/or legislative options will advance work towards improving access to high-quality, culturally-relevant, and safe health care for Indigenous peoples. ISC continues to facilitate discussions with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners on this important initiative.^{Footnote roman numeral 27xxvii}

• Program: Health Systems Support
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • CIF Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of the population reporting discrimination or unfair treatment
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: As a result of the significant feedback on the Key Legislative Elements document for Indigenous health legislation, ISC carefully reviewed and considered all of the feedback, assessed options to move forward in a responsive and meaningful way, and continue to explore partners' interest in this work. Canada remains committed to working jointly with First Nation, Inuit, and Métis partners to improve access to high-quality and culturally relevant health care services by pursuing policy and/or legislative options.
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: In October 2024, Indigenous Services Canada received approval of authority to work on separate approaches with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners to co-develop policy and/or legislative options and adjust the co-development process to improve transparency and collaboration. This was communicated to the national First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations. Next steps are still being determined with partners.

Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada's Health System^{Footnote roman numeral 29xxix}

Building on the successes from Budget 2021, the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism (AAIR) program was renewed through Budget 2024 for $167.6 million over five years, starting in 2024-25, to continue addressing anti-Indigenous racism in health care and implementing Joyce's Principle. The program will help to ensure that Indigenous Peoples have access to high quality, culturally-informed health services and that health systems are free of racism and discrimination. The renewed funding will maintain support for direct health service delivery such as patient advocates, health system navigators, midwives, and birth support workers, as well as initiatives to increase Indigenous representation in health professions. ISC will continue to work closely with Indigenous and health system partners to ensure that the implementation of these investments are informed by the lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples, and based on the recognition of Indigenous rights.

• Program: Health Systems Support
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • CIF Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of the population reporting discrimination or unfair treatment
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: New as of 2025 DSDS Update
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: The Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism in Canada's Health Systems (AAIR) program supports the advancement of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and works to address systemic inequity in health care. By funding Indigenous communities and organizations to implement Indigenous-led initiatives, the program upholds Indigenous Peoples' right to self-determination and works to close gaps in equitable access to culturally safe and relevant health services.
    
    AAIR funding supports initiatives that increase Indigenous representation within the health system and promote the hiring and retention of Indigenous patient advocates, health system navigators, midwives, and birth support workers. These roles provide immediate, culturally safe, and relevant support to Indigenous patients, thereby improving access to health services and health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. The AAIR program also supports national Indigenous health organizations driving efforts to combat racism within health structures at the systems level.
    
    By addressing racism at both the individual and system levels, the AAIR program advances efforts to reduce patient harm, foster inclusive and equitable healthcare environments for Indigenous patients, and meaningfully contribute to reconciliation and the elimination of health disparities.
    
    The AAIR program successfully flowed Budget 2024 funding to regional partners, Métis and national partners for their respective initiatives that work to address anti-Indigenous racism in the health system. The funding allocations are for the next two fiscal years beginning in 2024-25 to 2025-26. The funding supported the continuation of Indigenous-led initiatives to increase Indigenous representation within health professions, as well as the hiring and retention of Indigenous patient advocates, health system navigators, midwives, and birth support workers in positions to provide immediate culturally safe support to Indigenous patients.
    
    The funding also provided capacity funding to national indigenous health system organizations to continue their efforts to address anti-Indigenous racism at the systems level.

The new Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework aims to improve long-term and continuing care services in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities by meeting needs identified through engagement and co-development as well as supporting partnerships between communities, governments, and the private sector to improve access to care.

ISC will participate in building more equitable access to high-quality and culturally safe care and support First Nations, Métis, and Inuit control and autonomy over their health care by:

• Continuing to work with First Nations and Inuit partners on advancing the development and implementation of the Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework.
• Beginning engagement work on the Métis Long-Term Continuing Care Framework,
• In addition to the existing home care services, working with federal partners and First Nations and Inuit organizations to build capacity within communities to plan, develop and deliver comprehensive, culturally sensitive, accessible and effective assisted living and long-term care services.

The Home and Community Care program is a coordinated system of health care services that enable First Nations and Inuit people of all ages with disabilities, chronic or acute illnesses and the elderly to receive the care they need in their homes and communities. It is provided primarily through contribution agreements with First Nation and Inuit communities and Territorial governments and strives to be equal to home and community care services offered to other Canadian residents in similar geographical areas. Home and Community Care is delivered primarily by home care registered nurses and trained and certified personal care workers. Service delivery is based on assessed need and follows a case management process. Priority service elements include client assessment; home care nursing; palliative and end of life care: case management; home support (personal care and home management); in-home respite; linkages and referral, as needed, to other health and social services; provision of and access to specialized medical equipment and supplies for care; and a system of record keeping and data collection. Additional supportive services may also be provided, depending on the needs of the communities and funding availability. Supportive services may include, but are not limited to: rehabilitation and other therapies; adult day care; meal programs; in-home mental health; and specialized health promotion, wellness and fitness.

• Program: Home & Long-Term Care
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • CIF Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of the population reporting discrimination or unfair treatment
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: New as of 2025 DSDS Update
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes:
    • In 2024-25, ISC continued to work with First Nations and Inuit partners to advance the co-development and implementation of a Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework.
    • As per the 2021 Minister's mandate letter that committed to expanding this engagement to all distinctions, ISC has broadened the engagement to include Métis partners. Métis engagement activities have largely concluded, with 6 of 8 engagement summary reports having been submitted. This work, has begun to review the engagement summary reports to gain insights as to what was heard through the Métis-led engagement process, including the Care needs and concerns identified by Métis individuals and communities across the country
    • Funded 396 Indigenous service delivery operators for planning and delivery of First Nations and Inuit Home and Community Care (FNIHCC) services.
    • Ongoing leadership of the National Lower Limb Preservation Knowledge Sharing Circle for health providers in First Nations Communities (2 events).
    • Reviewed and updated FNIHCC program plan and program compendium and initiated review of other key operational documents, including the FNIHCC Planning Guide, Nursing Handbook and Quality Resource Kit in response to Audit 2023 MAP.
    • Worked with AFN to establish a new First Nations and Inuit Home and Community Care Community of Practice between national and regional ISC FNIHCC representatives and Indigenous leaders to exchange about mutual priorities, strategic orientations and issues that are relevant to the FNIHCC program with consideration to local healthcare systems context.
    • Active participation and leadership in the Adults with Disabilities Canadian Human Rights Commission complaints.
    • ISC continues to support First Nations, Métis and Inuit applicants with immediate and short-term initiatives that increase capacity along the Long-Term and Continuing Care continuum (Short-Term Capacity Building Projects).

Jordan's Principle and Inuit Child First Initiative (ICFI) addresses gaps for eligible First Nations and Inuit children in Canada in accessing needed products, supports and services. The two initiatives respond to the unmet needs of First Nations and Inuit children no matter where they live in Canada by providing funding to eligible children to access a wide range of health, education and social services, products and supports they need.

These initiatives aim to take into account the best interest as well as historical, geographical and cultural needs and circumstances of First Nations and Inuit children. Jordan's Principle and ICFI fund a significant number of individual and group requests in urban areas, as well as on and off reserve for First Nation children, on a wide range of requested products, services and supports for First Nation and Inuit children.

Through Jordan's Principle the Government of Canada contributes to reducing inequalities by providing funding for services and supports through a lens of substantive equality, cultural appropriateness and safeguarding the best interests of the child.^{Footnote roman numeral 32xxxii}

• Program: Jordan's Principle & the Inuit Child First Initiative
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians live free of discrimination and inequalities are reduced
  • CIF Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of the population reporting discrimination or unfair treatment
  • GIF Target/SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: Canada continues to advance reconciliation with First Nations and to address inequalities experienced by First Nations children by working with First Nations partners to improve awareness of, and access to, Jordan's Principle. In fiscal year 2023-24, 2,302,538 products, services, and supports were approved through Jordan's Principle (a 34% increase compared to fiscal year 2022-23). 57,408 children were approved for individual requests through Jordan's Principle in fiscal year 2023-24 (a 35% increase compared to fiscal year 2022-23). The top five categories by number of approved requests in fiscal year 2023-24 were for: (1) economic supports; (2) medical travel; (3) education; (4) travel; and (5) mental wellness.
    
    The Inuit Child First Initiative is contributing to eliminate discrimination and to reduce inequalities by minimizing barriers and addressing gaps for Inuit children in Canada in accessing requested products, services, and support. In fiscal year 2023-24, 93,267 products, services, and supports were approved through the Inuit Child First Initiative (a 68% increase compared to fiscal year 2022-23). 8,012 children were approved for individual requests through the Inuit Child First Initiative in fiscal year 2023-24 (a 32% increase compared to fiscal year 2022-23).
    
    The Inuit Child First Initiative supports the horizontal core theme of Reconciliation by working with Inuit partners, including the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Inuit Treaty Organizations, to co-develop a long-term Inuit-specific shared responsibility model to align services, supports and products to better meet the health, social, and education needs of Inuit children.
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: Jordan's Principle does not provide services but rather provides funding to First Nations children and families to cover the costs of required health, education and social products, services and supports. Between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025, 2,767,523 products, services, and supports were approved, for First Nations children through Jordan's Principle.
    
    Jordan's Principle was established to ensure that children do not experience gaps or delays in accessing government-funded health, social and educational services and that they are not denied government services because they identify as First Nations.
    
    The Inuit Child First Initiative is contributing to reducing inequalities by ensuring Inuit children have equal access to essential government funded health, social and educational products, services and supports. The Inuit Child First Initiative provides funding, not services, to Inuit children and families.
    
    In fiscal year 2024-25, 49,813 products, services and supports were approved through the Inuit Child First Initiative (a 47% decrease compared to fiscal year 2023-24). The decrease can be explained by a decrease in requests submitted, an increase in group requests, an increase in group approved funds, and a slight increase in denials.
    
    In fiscal year 2024-25, 4,903 Inuit children were approved for individual requests through the Inuit Child First Initiative (a 38% decrease compared to fiscal year 2023-24). In 2024-25, the proportion of all approved requests which were submitted as group requests increased compared to fiscal year 2023-24.
    
    The Inuit Child First Initiative supports the horizontal core theme of Reconciliation by working with Inuit partners, including the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Inuit Treaty Organizations, to co-develop a long-term Inuit-specific approach to align services, supports and products to better meet the health, social, and education needs of Inuit children.

Departmental Action: Work to ensure long-term, sustainable and predictable funding to support affordable housing and related infrastructure and accelerate work to close gaps in Indigenous housing and infrastructure.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Through a national process, $277.8 million out of a total funding amount of $281.5 million is being distributed to 75 projects across the country aimed at building more than 3800 units. This funding was provided to Indigenous Services Canada through Budget 2022 and was distributed by the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI), applying its "For Indigenous, By Indigenous" approach. NICHI brings together Indigenous-led housing, homelessness, and housing-related service delivery organizations to provide lasting solutions that address diverse housing inadequacies including homelessness for Indigenous Peoples living in urban, rural and northern areas.
  
  Through a "For Indigenous, By Indigenous" approach to Indigenous housing that recognizes Indigenous organizations are best placed to understand the needs of their communities, Indigenous Services Canada is striving to close this gap by 2030.
  
  This delivery of immediate funding will proceed on a separate but parallel track to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's co-development work towards an Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy and Housing Centre.
  
  Access to adequate housing and infrastructure is essential to developing healthier and more sustainable Indigenous communities. ISC will continue to support the construction and renovation of housing and infrastructure on-reserve, including supporting First Nations to eliminate all remaining long-term drinking water advisories on reserve and working with First Nations to establish legally enforceable safe drinking water protections, comparable to those in place in provinces and territories. The Department will also continue to support innovation and capacity-building in First Nations to support the gradual transfer of housing and infrastructure service delivery, aligned with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
  
  Since 2016 and as of June 2024, $13.8 billion in targeted funds have been invested, supporting 10,369 infrastructure projects in First Nations, including:
  • 358 water and wastewater projects;
  • construction, renovation or retrofit of 19,646 housing units;
  • 320 schools projects, including 74 new schools;
  • 650 health projects, including construction or renovation of 99 health facilities; and,
  • 1,836 projects to support other community infrastructure, including everything from roads and bridges to fire protection to cultural and recreational facilities.^{Footnote roman numeral 34xxxiv}
  A further $5.3 billion of targeted infrastructure funding will be invested from 2024-2025 onward.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition 11.1: Canadians have access to quality housing
  • CIF Target: Reduce chronic homelessness by at least 31% by March 2024
  • CIF Indicator 11.1.1: Growth rate of people experiencing chronic homelessness
  • GIF Target/SDG 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums
  • GIF Target/SDG 11.2: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport, with special attention to the needs of those in vulnerable situations, women, children, persons with disabilities and older persons
• Performance indicator: Percentage of First Nations housing that is adequate as assessed and reported by First Nations communities.
  • Starting point: 75%
  • Target: 75% by 2025
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: Data will be available in 2024-25
    • Notes: The result for 2023-24 will be based on finalized data from the Community Infrastructure and Housing Annual Report in late 2024-25. The result for 2022-23 was previously not available, but has since been determined as 74.1%.
      
      ISC supports efforts to improve the well-being of Indigenous communities by ensuring safe and livable housing through ongoing work to maintain adequate housing, which is essential for health and safety. The department also contributes to the global goal of providing adequate, safe, and affordable housing for all, helping to reduce housing inequalities and improve living conditions in First Nations communities.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 72.9% (2023-24)^{Footnote 32}
    • Notes: ISC supports safe and adequate housing in First Nation communities, thereby contributing to the well-being of First Nation communities. This work contributes to the global goal of providing adequate, and safe housing for all, helping to reduce housing inequalities and improve living conditions in First Nations communities. The result for 2024-25 will be based on finalized data from the Community Infrastructure and Housing Annual Report, which will be available by March 2026.

Departmental Action: Ensure construction project general contractors track and disclose the amount of construction and demolition waste generated, as well as the amount diverted from landfill.

• Program: Internal Services
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Actions that reduce the generation of constructions and demolition waste will help to reduce Scope 3 emissions for the production, transport and disposal of material. Diverting waste from landfill reduces landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Material recovery via recycling reduces emissions for the extraction and production of virgin materials.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition 12: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.3.1: Total waste diversion per capita
  • GIF Target: 12.5 By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse
• Performance indicator: Percentage by weight of construction and demolition waste diverted from landfill in Crown-owned buildings
  • Mass of construction and demolition waste generated in the year = [X] tonnes
  • Mass of construction and demolition waste diverted in the year = [Y] tonnes
  • Percentage (%) of construction and demolition waste diverted = [Y/X] %
  • Starting point: 0^{Footnote 33}
  • Target: Divert at least 90% by weight of non-hazardous operational waste from landfills annually by 2030
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 0 (2023-24)
    • Notes: ISC did not undertake any construction, renovation or demolition (CRD) projects in custodial operational real property during fiscal year 2023-24. Tracking and diversion of CRD waste is integrated into planned projects, and the department has systematized tracking and diversion of this waste through the establishment of a corresponding departmental green procurement target and through updates to procurement processes.
      
      The department ensures that construction project general contractors track and disclose the amount of construction and demolition waste generated during projects on Crown-owned assets, as well as the amount diverted from landfill.
      
      Actions that reduce the generation of constructions and demolition waste will help to reduce Scope 3 emissions for the production, transport and disposal of material. Diverting waste from landfill reduces landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Material recovery via recycling reduces emissions for the extraction and production of virgin materials.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 0
    • Notes: ISC did not undertake any construction, renovation, or demolition ("CRD") projects that generated waste during 2024-25.
      
      Tracking and diversion of CRD waste is integrated into planned projects, and the department has systematized tracking and diversion of this waste through the establishment of a corresponding departmental green procurement target and through updates to procurement processes.
      
      The department ensures that construction project general contractors track and disclose the amount of construction and demolition waste generated during projects on Crown-owned assets, as well as the amount diverted from landfill.
      
      Actions that reduce the generation of constructions and demolition waste will help to reduce Scope 3 emissions for the production, transport and disposal of material. Diverting waste from landfill reduces landfill gas and transport hauling emissions. Material recovery via recycling reduces emissions for the extraction and production of virgin materials.

Departmental Action: Purchasing zero emission vehicles to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from conventional fleet operations.

• Program: Internal Services
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: ISC's annual vehicle procurement strategy is committed to sustainability, with a focus on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Each year, all new purchases of light-duty fleet vehicles will be either zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) or hybrids. This commitment is part of our broader effort to significantly cut GHG emissions originating from our conventional light-duty fleet. Furthermore, we are actively collaborating with Natural Resources Canada to carry out a comprehensive Fleet Electrification Study, which will play a pivotal role in advancing our sustainable transportation initiatives.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition 12.1: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.1.1: Proportion of new light duty vehicle registrations that are zero-emission vehicles
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.1: Implement the 10-year framework of programmes on sustainable consumption and production, all countries taking action, with developed countries taking the lead, taking into account the development and capabilities of developing countries
• Performance indicator: Percentage of annual new vehicle purchases that are ZEV
  • Starting point: 0% ZEV and 60% hybrid or plug-in hybrid vehicles in 2023 to 2024^{Footnote roman numeral 35xxxv}
  • Target: 100% of new light-duty vehicle purchases will be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEVs) starting in 2025^{Footnote roman numeral 36xxxvi}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 60% (2023-24)
    • Notes: The department is purchasing zero-emission vehicles and right-sizing the fleet based on usage data collected through telematics to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions from conventional fleet operations. Telematic devices are deployed across a large proportion of the ISC fleet as of 2023-24.
      
      During 2023-24, 67 new vehicles were purchased, of which 33 (49%) were plug-in hybrid electrics (PHEVs) and 7 were hybrids, meaning 60% of all acquisitions were green vehicles. Of these 67 new vehicle purchases, 42 were subject to the green vehicle purchase target from the Greening Government Strategy (i.e. for purchases of vehicle types for which zero-emission models are available), and 40 (or 90%) of these 42 purchases met the target. The limited selection available in the Government Motor Vehicle Ordering Guide of ZEVs meeting the operational requirements impacted the department's ability to acquire all ZEVs.
      
      Purchasing zero-emission vehicles reduces greenhouse gas emissions from conventional fleet operations. This enhances sustainable consumption.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2024-25)
• Performance indicator: Percentage change in Scope 1 GHG emissions from conventional fleet, relative to fiscal year 2005-06 levels
  • Starting point:
    • 2.247 kilotonnes of CO2 equivalent (kt CO2e) in 2005-06
    • 1.742 kt CO2e in 2022-23 (22.5% decrease since 2005-06)
  • Target: 40% reduction by 2025 and by at least 90% below 2005 levels by 2050^{Footnote roman numeral 37xxxvii}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 19.9% decrease from 2005-06 to 2023-24 (1.8 kt CO2e in 2023-24)
    • Notes: ISC's annual vehicle procurement strategy is committed to sustainability, with a focus on reducing GHG emissions. Each year, all new purchases of light-duty vehicles will be zero-emission vehicles, whenever the vehicle selection available through the Government Motor Vehicle Ordering Guide meets the operational requirements.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 21% decrease from 2005-06 to 2024-25 (1.775 kt CO2e in 2024-25)
    • Notes: ISC's annual vehicle procurement strategy is committed to sustainability, with a focus on reducing GHG emissions. Each year, all new purchases of light-duty vehicles will be zero-emission vehicles, whenever the vehicle selection available through the Government Motor Vehicle Ordering Guide meets the operational requirements.

Departmental Action: Ensure all procurement and materiel management specialists are trained in green procurement (such as, the Canada School of Public Service course on green procurement, or equivalent) within one year of being identified.

• Program: Internal Services
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Green procurement incorporates environmental considerations into purchasing decisions and is expected to motivate suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver, and their supply chains.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.2.1: Proportion of businesses that adopted selected environmental protection activities and management practices
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.7: Promote public procurement practices that are sustainable, in accordance with national policies and priorities
• Performance indicator: Percentage of procurement and materiel management specialists trained in green procurement within one year of being identified
  • Starting point: 100% (2022-23)
  • Target: 100% of procurement officers and materiel management specialists receive training within one year of being identified
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2023-24)
    • Notes: ISC's procurement and materiel management specialists are centralized under the directorate responsible for the implementation of green procurement. All procurement and materiel management specialists are trained in green procurement (such as, the Canada School of Public Service course on green procurement, or equivalent) within one year of being identified.
      
      Green procurement incorporates environmental considerations into purchasing decisions and is expected to motivate suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver, and their supply chains.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2024-2025)
    • Notes: For the purposes of this indicator, ISC defines "procurement and materiel management specialists" as including the department's Materiel and Assets Management Directorate (MAMD). Departmental procurement and responsibility for green procurement implementation are centralized in MAMD. MAMD is not tracking completion of training on green procurement by regional materiel management specialists outside of MAMD at present, and it is not feasible to collect this information for this report.
      
      During 2024-25, MAMD developed updated guidance on green procurement for ISC's procurement specialists.
      
      All ISC procurement and materiel management specialists are trained in green procurement (such as, the Canada School of Public Service course on green procurement, or equivalent) within one year of being identified.
      
      Green procurement incorporates environmental considerations into purchasing decisions and is expected to motivate suppliers to reduce the environmental impact of the goods and services they deliver, and their supply chains.

Departmental Action: Improve the environmental condition on reserve lands by reducing contamination through remediation and risk management of contaminated sites.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: The Contaminated Sites on Reserve Program works directly with First Nations communities to assess and remediate contaminated sites for which a Crown liability has been established and documented. The Program reduces environmental impacts, makes previously unusable land available for community or economic development, and provides economic benefits and opportunities for First Nations.
  
  Remediation and risk management of contaminated sites contributes to source water protection by eliminating groundwater contamination pathways which could impact drinking water sources. This contributes to the sustainable management of lands the environment and safeguards human health and safety.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.2.1: Proportion of businesses that adopted selected environmental protection activities and management practices
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water and soil in order to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment
• Performance indicator: Percentage of high-risk contaminated sites on-reserve where remediation activities are being undertaken
  • Starting point: 18% (2022-23)
  • Target: At least 29% by 2025^{Footnote roman numeral 38xxxviii}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 25.2% (2023-24)
    • Notes: In 2023-24, this target was not met due to several factors: the expansion of Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan funding eligibility to include community-priority but lower-risk sites (Class II & III), increased project costs driven by inflation and supply chain issues, and the addition of new Class 1 sites to the ISC contaminated sites inventory from the discovery of legacy sites or the creation of new ones.
      
      The 29% target, which is based on historical data, will be updated during the upcoming program renewal (FCSAP Phase V).
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 24.4%
    • Notes: The target was revised to 20% in 2023–24 to reflect changes in project eligibility criteria under Phase IV of the program. With remediation funding expanded to include Class 2 (medium priority for action) and Class 3 (low priority for action) sites, the program has not focused as heavily on Class 1 (high priority for action) sites as initially anticipated. This change was made to better account for First Nation priorities that are not necessarily reflected in the National Classification System for Contaminated Sites (NCSCS) scoring system—such as community land use plans or infrastructure development needs. As a result, resources have been distributed across a broader range of eligible projects.
• Performance indicator: Number of contaminated sites that have completed remediation/risk management activities
  • Starting point: 0 sites (April 1, 2020)^{Footnote roman numeral 39xxxix}
  • Target: 25 sites by 2025 (end of FCSAP Phase IV)
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 31 sites (since 2020-21, as of March 31, 2024) (4 sites in 2023-24)
    • Notes: The reported number reflects the sites at which all planned remediation activities were completed in 2023-24. The program's target is to fully remediate a cumulative total of 25 sites by March 2025, within Phase IV of FCSAP (2020-2025). Since 2020-21 and as of March 31, 2024, 31 sites have been fully remediated within Phase IV of FCSAP. It is important to note that remediation or risk management projects typically span multiple years, during which remediation and confirmatory sampling activities take place, resulting in a delay of several years before a site can officially confirm the completion of its remediation.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 83 (2024-2025)
    • Notes: Cumulative since 2020.
      • 1 site in 2020-21
      • 17 sites in 2021-22
      • 9 sites in 2022-23
      • 4 sites in 2023-24
      • 52 sites in 2024-25

      The program has surpassed its Phase IV target of fully remediating 25 sites by March 2025. A new target will be established for Phase V (2025–2030) to reflect the program's continued progress.
      
      The 2024–25 result (52 sites) will not align with the Federal Contaminated Sites Inventory due to minor administrative differences in data compilation affecting 11 sites.

Departmental Action: Support First Nations communities through the First Nations Waste Management Initiative in undertaking new waste diversion approaches that meet community needs.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Supporting First Nation communities to clean up, decommission and close waste sites and existing assets enables sustainable management of land and the environment. This allows the land to be utilized for future solid waste management systems or other land uses. Improved solid waste management helps protect the environment, safeguard human health and safety, and improves land management in communities. The First Nations Waste Management Initiative supports communities to undertake new waste diversion programs like recycling and composting. These efforts reduce the amount of waste going to landfill, thus lengthening the lifespan of these facilities.
  
  While communities have had opportunities to access the First Nations Waste Management Initiative since 2016, there still remains a significant challenge in bringing some communities up to the waste management standards of comparable municipalities. Remote access, past substandard waste disposal, and lack of available services are still challenges that communities face. Supporting First Nation communities to clean up, decommission and close waste sites protects community water resources from contamination. This enables the sustainable management of land and the environment and safeguards human health and safety.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.3.1: Total waste diversion per capita
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse
• Performance indicator: Number of waste sites cleaned up, decommissioned or closed
  • Starting point: 17 (2022 to 2023)^{Footnote roman numeral 40xl}
  • Target: 60 by 2028
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 22 (2023-24)
    • Notes: The 2023-24 result aligns with the CIF ambition for sustainable consumption by reducing environmental risks and improving land use. This progress also contributes to the goal of reducing waste per capita and supports the global effort to minimize waste generation through better management and prevention. Overall, the result shows meaningful progress toward sustainable waste management and environmental protection.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 40 (2024-2025)
    • Notes: The 2024-25 result aligns with the CIF ambition for sustainable consumption by reducing environmental risks and improving land use. This progress also contributes to the goal of reducing waste per capita and supports the global effort to minimize waste generation through better management and prevention. Overall, the result shows meaningful progress toward sustainable waste management and environmental protection.

Departmental Action: Work with First Nations to develop solid waste management approaches that meet individual community needs.

Activities will include:

1. supporting recycling, composting, and hazardous waste diversion programming, and
2. increasing community awareness.

• Program: Communities and the Environment
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Supporting First Nation communities to reduce waste through education, awareness and capacity building activities. Funding supports communities to divert various streams (including recycling, household hazardous waste, compost, scrap metal, e-waste, etc.), and utilize a properly constructed waste facility.
  
  Adequate solid waste management is defined as the ability of a First Nation community to divert household hazardous waste, divert other waste streams (i.e. paper, plastic, tires, electronics, etc.) and ensure all remaining residual waste is disposed into a properly constructed, managed and maintained waste facility.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians consume in a sustainable manner
  • CIF Indicator 12.3.1: Total waste diversion per capita
  • GIF Target/SDG 12.5: By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse
• Performance indicator: Number of First Nations communities with diversion programs (e.g. recycling, composting, waste reduction, etc.)
  • Starting point: 36 (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 60 by 2028
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 48 (2023-24)
    • Notes: The 2023-24 result shows progress toward supporting the CIF ambition for sustainable consumption by increasing recycling, composting, and waste reduction initiatives, contributing to better waste management practices. It also aligns with CIF Indicator 12.3.1, which focuses on reducing waste per capita, and with GIF Target 12.5, aimed at reducing global waste generation through prevention, recycling, and reuse. The growth from 36 to 48 communities reflects positive steps toward promoting sustainable consumption and reducing environmental impacts in First Nations communities.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 93 (2024-2025)
    • Notes: The 2024-25 result shows marked progress toward supporting the CIF ambition for sustainable consumption by increasing recycling, composting, and waste reduction initiatives, contributing to better waste management practices. It also aligns with CIF Indicator 12.3.1, which focuses on reducing waste per capita, and with GIF Target 12.5, aimed at reducing global waste generation through prevention, recycling, and reuse. The growth from 50 to 93 communities reflects a significant increase toward promoting sustainable consumption and reducing environmental impacts in First Nations communities, and has now exceeded the 2027-28 target.
• Performance indicator: Percentage of First Nations communities with adequate solid waste management systems
  • Starting point: 40.5% (2022 to 2023)
  • Target: 65% by 2028
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 49.8% (2023-24)
    • Notes: This progress supports the CIF ambition for Canadians to consume sustainably by improving waste management in Indigenous communities, which is crucial for reducing environmental impacts. It also contributes to CIF Indicator 12.3.1 by enhancing waste diversion efforts. Additionally, it aligns with GIF Target 12.5, which aims to reduce global waste generation through improved systems like recycling and reuse. The increase from 40.5% to 49.8% reflects steady advancement toward sustainable waste management in First Nations communities.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 58.9% (2024-2025)
    • Notes: This progress supports the CIF ambition for Canadians to consume sustainably by improving waste management in Indigenous communities, which is crucial for reducing environmental impacts. It also contributes to CIF Indicator 12.3.1 by enhancing waste diversion efforts. Additionally, it aligns with GIF Target 12.5, which aims to reduce global waste generation through improved systems like recycling and reuse.

Departmental Action: Ensure all relevant employees are trained on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments, and developing adaptation actions within one year of being identified.

• Program: Internal Services
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Trained staff can identify risk to critical program delivery and develop responses to increase the resilience of operations to impacts of climate change.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.3: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of Climate change
  • CIF Indicator 13.3.1: Proportion of municipal organization who factored climate change adaptation into their decision-making process
  • GIF Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries
  • GIF Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
• Performance indicator: Percentage of relevant employees involved in the management of facilities and conventional fleets trained on assessing climate change impacts, undertaking climate change risk assessments, and developing adaptation actions within one year of being identified
  • Starting point: 100% (2023-24)^{Footnote 34}
  • Target: 100% trained by 2025
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2023-24)
    • Notes: ISC's "relevant employees" are defined as staff in ISC's directorate responsible for implementing Greening Government Strategy commitments related to facilities and conventional fleets. Additional national training requirements are being identified through ongoing work on climate change adaptation and net-zero planning work for ISC operational facilities and conventional fleets.
      
      Trained staff can identify risk to critical program delivery and develop responses to increase the resilience of operations to impacts of climate change. With more employees able to identify risks due to climate change. ISC can proactively combat impacts to departmental assets rather than dealing with issues on a reactionary basis.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2024-2025)
    • Notes: For the purposes of this indicator, Material Asset Management Directorate (MAMD) defines "relevant employees" as including staff in ISC's Materiel and Assets Management Directorate with responsibility for implementing Greening Government Strategy commitments related to facilities and conventional fleets. These responsibilities are limited to MAMD at present and the implicated staff have been trained.

Departmental Action: Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from departmental operational facilities.

• Program: Internal Services
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Actions that simplify the portfolio, share facilities, reduce the demand for energy or switch to lower carbon sources of energy will lead to reductions in GHGs from real property operations.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition: Canadians reduce greenhouse gas emissions
  • CIF Indicator 13.1.1: Greenhouse gas emissions
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
• Performance indicator: Percentage change in GHG emissions from real property from fiscal year 2005-2006
  • Starting point:
    • 0.417 kt CO2e in 2005-06
    • 0.042 kt CO2e in 2022-23 (90% decrease from 2005-06)
  • Target: 40% reduction by 2025 and by at least 90% below 2005 levels by 2050^{Footnote roman numeral 41xli}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 91% decrease from 2005-06 to 2023-24 (0.037 kt CO2e in 2023-24)
    • Notes: ISC's Net-Zero Climate-Resilient Real Property Portfolio Plan is currently under development to assess risks to ISC's operational facilities as a result of climate change. It includes cost estimates and recommendations for how the department will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and over the long-term, including purchasing energy from more sustainable sources (as available) and net-zero retrofits.
      
      Actions that rationalize the portfolio, share facilities, reduce the demand for energy or switch to lower carbon sources of energy will lead to reductions in GHGs from real property operations.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 91% decrease from 2005-06 to 2023-24 (0.037 kt CO2e in 2023-24)
    • Notes: The Starting Point has been corrected using the market-based accounting method employed by the Centre for Greening Government for Government of Canada emissions reporting, i.e. not including emissions from electricity covered by emission offset credits. Base year levels have been adjusted from 0.436 kt CO2e to 0.417 kt CO2e for 2005-06 and 2022-23 levels have been corrected from 0.134 kt CO2e to 0.042 kt CO2e, resulting in a 90% decrease in GHG emissions as a starting point.
      
      ISC's facility GHG emission data for 2024-25 is under development and not yet available for inclusion in this report.

Departmental Action: Assess the risk of climate change impacts at mission critical assets and where there are moderate to high risks, develop plans to reduce the risk

• Program: Internal Services
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and target and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: By assessing the risks of climate change impacts at mission critical assets, and developing plans to reduce the risks, the risk of disruption of critical service delivery to Canadians is reduced.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.3: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of Climate change
  • CIF Indicator 13.3.1: Proportion of municipal organization who factored climate change adaptation into their decision-making process
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning
• Performance indicator: Percentage of mission critical assets where the risk of climate change impacts is assessed
  • Starting point: 0% (2022-23)
  • Target: 100% by 2025
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 0% (2023-24)
    • Notes: All departmental mission critical operational facilities are planned for divestiture and are therefore not being assessed for risks of climate change impacts. The assessment of the department's two operational facilities that are not planned for divestiture is being completed during 2024-25.
      
      The department is developing ISC's Net-Zero Climate-Resilient Real Property Portfolio Plan to address risks to ISC's real property as a result of climate change, and to formalize how the department will mitigate identified risks on impacted assets.
      
      By assessing the risks of climate change impacts at mission critical assets, and developing plans to reduce the risks, the risk of disruption of critical service delivery to Canadians is reduced.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 0%
    • Notes: All departmental mission critical operational facilities are planned for divestiture and are, therefore, not being assessed for risks of climate change impacts.

Departmental Action: Collaborate with 23 vulnerable programs identified in the ISC Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment (2021) to proactively identify, prioritize, and manage climate risks, ensuring the resilience and delivery of critical services through the development of targeted Climate Risk Management Action Plans.

• Program: ISC Climate Policy Hub
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: By collaborating with vulnerable programs at risk of service disruption and developing program specific management options to strengthen operations, the department will be better equipped to ensure the delivery of high-quality services amidst increasing climate uncertainty.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.3: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of Climate change
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning
• Performance indicator: Number of Climate Risk Management Action Plans developed and tailored for vulnerable programming and services.
  • Starting point: 3 (2023-2024)
  • Target: 23 by 2027
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: N/A
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 3 (2023-24)^{Footnote 35}

Departmental Action: EMAP (Emergency Management Assistance Program) actively collaborates with First Nation communities, provincial/territorial governments, and third-party organizations to deliver comprehensive emergency assistance services to on-reserve First Nation communities.

• Program: Emergency Management Assistance
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: EMAP is designed to be adaptive to the evolving challenges resulting from emergency events, including those intensified by climate change. The program aims to be flexible, culturally sensitive, and responsive to the unique strengths and customs of First Nation communities. By recognizing and addressing the unique needs of these communities, EMAP helps build their capacity to adapt and cope with the impacts of climate change and natural hazards.
  
  This includes offering funding for a wide spectrum of activities, encompassing mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery measures. The program's design is rooted in flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and a responsiveness to the distinctive requirements of First Nations communities. EMAP not only provides financial support to provinces, territories, and non-governmental organizations involved in on-reserve emergency management but also supports diverse initiatives such as training, emergency planning, hazard assessment, and fire prevention. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in response and recovery efforts for a range of emergencies, including wildfires, floods, storms, earthquakes, as well as public health emergencies. This comprehensive approach not only enables communities to address immediate emergency needs but also empowers them to "build back better" and proactively plan for risk mitigation, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future.
  
  The performance indicator percentage of evacuees that have returned to their community within 3 months supports Canadians to be well equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change as well as strengthening resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and disasters by reflecting both on the speed and effectiveness of emergency management through response and recovery efforts. A higher percentage signifies that the community's response and recovery mechanisms are efficient and well-equipped to handle the impacts of climate change-related emergencies. It demonstrates the community's resilience, indicating that they have resilient preparedness and mitigation measures and have necessary resources and support systems in place for a swift and smooth return. Timely recovery enables individuals to be repatriated back to their communities in a timely manner after an evacuation, which contributes to their overall resilience in the face of climate change challenges.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.2: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries
• Performance indicator: Percentage of evacuees that have returned to their community within 3 months
  • Starting point: 82% (2022-23)
  • Target: 95% annually
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 97.4% (2023-24)
    • Notes: The nature of emergencies is difficult to predict, as the exceptionally severe 2023-24 wildfire season has shown. First Nations experienced significant infrastructure loss, which resulted in longer displacements while repairs were conducted or other interim solutions sought. Presently, the department supports 568 First Nation communities during emergencies by facilitating robust and efficient emergency management services. The department supports First Nations-led emergency management mitigation and preparedness initiatives through its Non-structural Mitigation and Preparedness, FireSmart, and Capacity Enhancement funding streams. Throughout the fiscal year 2023-24, First Nation communities across Canada faced emergencies, resulting in 32,404 evacuees. A total of over $509 million was allocated to these communities through the Response & Recovery program. This funding addressed the impact of the 2023 wildfire season and recovery and recovery efforts from previous events like the 2022 wildfire in Lytton First Nation in British Columbia and Hurricane Fiona in the Atlantic region. Long-term recovery initiatives, such as those in Little Red River Cree Nation in Alberta and K'atlodeeche First Nation in the Northwest Territories, were also undertaken. The increased return rate shows emergency management and recovery efforts have been effective, supporting CIF Ambition 13.2 to enhance resilience to climate change by helping communities recover quickly from disasters. It also meets GIF Target 13.1, which aims to strengthen resilience to climate-related hazards, by demonstrating strong capacity to manage and recover from natural disasters.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100%
    • Notes: 100% of evacuees returned home within two months (60 days) after their evacuation for 2024-25
      
      First Nations face significant impacts from climate change, including increased flood risks and more frequent, intense and unpredictable wildfires. The resulting damage causes significant infrastructure loss, resulting in longer displacements while repairs are made or other interim solutions sought. Presently the department supports on-reserve and eligible First Nation communities during emergencies by facilitating robust and efficient emergency management services. The department supports First Nations-led emergency management mitigation and preparedness initiatives through its Non-structural Mitigation and Preparedness, FireSmart, and Capacity Enhancement funding streams. Throughout the fiscal year 2024-25, First Nation communities across Canada faced emergencies, resulting in 17,018 evacuees. A total of over $588.9 million was allocated to communities through the Response & Recovery program. This funding includes activities related to previous events, such as the 2022 major flooding in Manitoba and Alberta, or the compounding impacts from the 2023-24 wildfire season. The increased return rate shows emergency management and recovery efforts have been effective, supporting CIF Ambition 13.2 to enhance resilience to climate change by helping communities recover quickly from disasters. It also meets GIF Target 13.1, which aims to strengthen resilience to climate-related hazards, by demonstrating strong capacity to manage and recover from natural disasters.

Departmental Action: Invest in structural mitigation projects to protect First Nations communities from natural disasters.

• Program: Community Infrastructure
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Through the First Nations Infrastructure Fund, ISC supports First Nations communities, band councils, tribal councils and Indigenous organizations in their efforts to implement structural mitigation projects, which will reduce the impacts of natural disasters and climate-related extreme weather on First Nations communities (e.g., through construction of dykes). Using funding from the First Nations Infrastructure Fund, First Nations communities can remove, reduce or eliminate hazards; segregate hazards by keeping them away from people and assets; and alter asset design and construction to make them resilient to potential hazards.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF ambition 13.2: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries
• Performance indicator: Number of ongoing and completed structural mitigation projects
  • Starting point: 45 projects ongoing or completed as of December 31, 2018
  • Target: 200 by 2028 (cumulative since 2016)
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 139 since 2016, as of March 31, 2024
    • Notes: Since 2016 and as of March 31, 2024, ISC has invested $177.1 million of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 139 Structural Mitigation projects, 73 of which are complete. These projects will benefit 272 communities serving approximately 175,000 people.
      
      ISC is working in partnership with First Nations on a number of ongoing projects. For example, a project to protect Skwah First Nation, Shxwhá:y Village and the City of Chilliwack against flooding from the Fraser River in British Columbia. The project involves the construction of approximately six kilometres of new dikes along the Fraser River, a new flood gate structure crossing the Hope Slough and a new drainage pump station. Once complete, this work will significantly reduce the risk of flooding in the three communities, improving public safety and protecting homes and businesses from water damage.
      
      Through the First Nation Infrastructure Fund, ISC invests in infrastructure projects that modify hazards, including removing, reducing or eliminating them, segregating hazards by keeping them away from people and assets, and altering the design and construction of assets to make them resilient to potential hazards. These projects aim to reduce long-term risks from extreme-weather events and natural hazards by strengthening community safety and resilience. This includes building dikes, sea walls, nature-based infrastructure, fire breaks, erosion controls, culverts, and projects to protect schools and water and wastewater systems from a changing climate as well as floods, landslides, wildfires, permafrost thaw, and other natural disasters.
      
      Investments in structural mitigation projects address the hazard mitigation and prevention pillar of emergency management and support ISC's Emergency Management and Assistance Program. Projects like flood protection for Skwah First Nation and Shxwhá:y Village highlight effective measures to help safeguard communities. Overall, these structural mitigation efforts demonstrate alignment with CIF Ambition 13.2 by strengthening communities' ability to handle climate-related challenges and ensuring long-term resilience.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 155 (2024-2025)
    • Notes: Cumulative since 2016.
      
      Since 2016 and as of March 31, 2025, ISC has invested $198.5 million of targeted funds (excluding operating expenses) to support 155 Structural Mitigation projects (of which 80 are completed), that will benefit 278 communities serving approximately 180,000 people. 15 of these projects were completed in 2024-25.
      
      ISC is working in partnership with First Nations on a number of ongoing projects. For example, a project to raise six homes in Peters First Nation that have been identified as being at risk of flooding. Peters First Nation is situated in the active floodplain of the Fraser River and is subjected to major flooding and erosion hazards.
      
      Through the First Nation Infrastructure Fund, ISC invests in infrastructure projects that modify hazards, including removing, reducing or eliminating them, segregating hazards by keeping them away from people and assets, and altering the design and construction of assets to make them resilient to potential hazards. These projects aim to reduce long-term risks from extreme-weather events and natural hazards by strengthening community safety and resilience. This includes building dikes, sea walls, nature-based infrastructure, fire breaks, erosion controls, culverts, and projects to protect schools and water and wastewater systems from a changing climate as well as floods, landslides, wildfires, permafrost thaw, and other natural disasters.
      
      Investments in structural mitigation projects address the hazard mitigation and prevention pillar of emergency management and support ISC's Emergency Management and Assistance Program.
      
      Projects like flood protection for Peters First Nation highlight effective measures to help safeguard communities. Overall, these structural mitigation efforts demonstrate alignment with CIF Ambition 13.2 by strengthening communities' ability to handle climate-related challenges and ensuring long-term resilience.

Departmental Action: Provide funding for community-driven projects in First Nations communities south of the 60th parallel, and northern First Nations and Inuit communities. Funding will support the development of adaptation plans and actions that identify and prioritize the health impacts of climate change.

• Program: Public Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs: Environmental Public Health Services also support SDG 13 – Climate action via the Climate Change and Health Adaptation Program which is designed to build capacity for climate change and health adaptation by funding First Nations and Inuit communities' efforts to identify, assess, and respond to the health impacts of climate change. First Nations and Inuit communities take action to minimize the health impacts of climate change.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition/Target: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change
  • CIF Indicator 13.3.1: Proportion of municipal organization who factored climate change adaptation into their decision-making process
  • GIF Target/SDG 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning
  • CIF Ambition/Target 13.2: Canadians are well-equipped and resilient to face the effects of climate change
  • GIF Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies and planning
• Performance indicator: Percentage of First Nation and Inuit communities covered by climate change health adaptation funded projects
  • Starting point: 43% (as of March 31, 2023)
  • Target: 61% by 2027
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 46.9% (2023-24)
    • Notes: The Climate Change and Health Adaptation Program (CCHAP) funds First Nations and Inuit communities to identify, assess and respond to the health impacts of climate change. The target is to complete objectives by the end of the five-year funding period. There has been a decrease of multi-community proposals south of 60° with a preference for individual, community-specific climate vulnerability assessments.
      
      CCHAP funded an additional 15 new First Nation and Inuit communities in 2023-24 increasing total program coverage to 46.9% of First Nation and Inuit communities.
      
      CCHAP secured $2 million via the National Adaptation Strategy to engage with First Nations and Inuit communities to enhance understanding of the climate change gaps and needs in the health services funded or delivered by ISC. Results of this work will help to identify future needs and efforts required to build resiliency in First Nations and Inuit communities.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 46.9% (2023-24)^{Footnote 36}
    • Notes: The Climate Change and Health Adaptation Program (CCHAP) funds First Nations and Inuit communities to identify, assess and respond to the health impacts of climate change. The target is to complete objectives by the end of the five-year funding period. There has been a decrease of multi-community proposals south of 60° with a preference for individual, community-specific climate vulnerability assessments.
      
      CCHAP funded an additional 15 new First Nation and Inuit communities in 2023-24 increasing total program coverage to 46.9% of First Nation and Inuit communities.
      
      CCHAP secured $2 million via the National Adaptation Strategy to engage with First Nations and Inuit communities to enhance understanding of the climate change gaps and needs in the health services funded or delivered by ISC. Results of this work will help to identify future needs and efforts required to build resiliency in First Nations and Inuit communities.

Departmental Action: In partnership with communities, review proposed projects on reserve and contribute as a federal authority to impact assessments of designated projects to ensure projects do not cause significant adverse environmental effects or adverse impacts on Indigenous peoples' health social and economic conditions.^{Footnote roman numeral 43xliv}

• Program: Community Economic Development, Communities and the Environment
• How the Departmental Actions contribute to the FSDS goal and, where applicable, to Canada's 2030 Agenda National Strategy and SDGs:
  • Designated Project Impact Assessments: Through the provision of specialist or expert information or knowledge related to ISC's mandate, in keeping with the requirements of the Impact Assessment Act, ISC supports the assessment of impacts to Indigenous peoples' health, social, and economic conditions and the assessment of impacts to rights.^{Footnote roman numeral 45xlv}
  • Environmental Reviews: The review of physical activities and works occurring on reserve lands ensures environmental law requirements are met and address community needs. When potential adverse effects are identified, the Environmental Review Process ensures that appropriate mitigation measures and best management practices are considered in order to eliminate or reduce impacts on lands, waters, and communities. Engaging Indigenous communities in these processes further supports this goal in a meaningful way.
• Relevant targets or ambitions:
  • CIF Ambition/Target 16.7: Canadians are supported by effective, accountable, and transparent institutions
  • CIF Indicator 16.7.1: Proportion of the population with high levels of confidence in selected institutions
  • GIF Target/SDG 16.6: Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels
  • GIF Target/SDG 16.7: Ensure responsive, inclusive, participatory and representative decision-making at all levels
• Performance indicator: Percentage of designated project impact assessments for which ISC provides input within established timelines
  • Starting point: 100% (as of 2019)
  • Target: 100% annually
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2023-24)
    • Notes: In 2023-24 ISC made 39 submissions to the Impact Assessment Agency, providing commentary and advice regarding potential effects to Indigenous Peoples' health, social, and economic conditions. ISC reviews project documentation and provides relevant and targeted expertise in keeping with its mandate and the requirements of the Impact Assessment Act (IAA).
      
      Indian Oil and Gas Canada (IOGC) is also required to register project applications on the IAA public registry, where new projects are posted for 30 calendar days to allow for public comments, information requests, and acceptance or rejection of the proposals. The types of projects IOGC registers and posts include oil and gas exploratory licenses, surface leases, and pipeline right-of-way agreements on First Nation Reserve Land in Canada. Specific projects include seismic exploration, surface leases for wells and infrastructure, and pipeline rights-of-way originating either on-reserve or off-reserve in Alberta.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2023-24)^{Footnote 37}
    • Notes: In 2023-24 ISC made 39 submissions to the Impact Assessment Agency, providing commentary and advice regarding potential effects to Indigenous Peoples' health, social, and economic conditions. ISC reviews project documentation and provides relevant and targeted expertise in keeping with its mandate and the requirements of the Impact Assessment Act (IAA).
      
      Indian Oil and Gas Canada (IOGC) is also required to register project applications on the IAA public registry, where new projects are posted for 30 calendar days to allow for public comments, information requests, and acceptance or rejection of the proposals. The types of projects IOGC registers and posts include oil and gas exploratory licenses, surface leases, and pipeline right-of-way agreements on First Nation Reserve Land in Canada. Specific projects include seismic exploration, surface leases for wells and infrastructure, and pipeline rights-of-way originating either on-reserve or off-reserve in Alberta.
• Performance indicator: Percentage of projects on reserve for which the required environmental review is complete
  • Starting point: 100% (as of 2019)
  • Target: 100% annually^{Footnote 38}
  • 2023-24 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2023-24)
    • Notes: ISC's Environmental Review Process is used to meet ISC's obligations under the Impact Assessment Act (IAA) for projects on reserve that ISC enables through funding, permits, and authorisations. ISC environment officers and managers work with program leads to ensure a determination of the potential effects of a project is complete. ISC is currently reviewing and updating its Environmental Review Process to promote a consistent, high quality assessment that supports sustainable development, community wellness, and economic development for First Nations.
      
      Over the past three decades, the Indian Oil and Gas Canada (IOGC) has conducted numerous environmental reviews and stewardship activities to support the sustainable development of oil and gas resources, as well as the remediation and reclamation of oil and gas sites on First Nation reserves.
      
      Typically, IOGC reviews and approves oil and gas projects on federal reserve lands that are not classified as "designated projects" under the IAA. However, large-scale oil and gas projects fall under this designation. Under Section 82 of the IAA, IOGC must ensure that proposed large-scale oil and gas projects on federal reserve lands do not result in significant adverse environmental effects before approving them.
      
      The nature the projects that IOGC registers and posts on IAA web page are oil and gas exploratory licenses, surface leases, and pipeline right-of-way agreements on First Nation Reserve Land in Canada including:
      • Seismic exploration;
      • Surface leases for wells, batteries, compressors, borrow pits, remote sumps, access roads, pipeline riser sites, and other surface infrastructure;
      • Pipeline rights-of-way where the pipeline originates on-reserve; and
      • Pipeline rights-of-way in Alberta where the pipeline originates off-reserve.
  • 2024-25 Results achieved:
    • Indicator Result: 100% (2024-2025)
    • Notes: ISC's Environmental Review Process is used to meet ISC's obligations under the Impact Assessment Act (IAA) for projects on reserve that ISC enables through funding, permits, and authorisations. ISC environment officers and managers work with program leads to ensure a determination of the potential effects of a project is complete. ISC continues to improve the Environmental Review Process by: chairing a working group focused on efficiencies for reviews that involve multiple federal authorities and leading the development of interdepartmental coordination guidance; raising awareness and improving internal coordination across ISC sectors with new guidance; and reducing the administrative burden of very low risk projects through the development of a mitigation measures inventory.

ISC supports CIRNAC in its role as horizontal lead to advance the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals' core theme of reconciliation by providing input for Canada's Sustainable Development Goals Annual Report.

ISC works collaboratively with CIRNAC on shared interests to advance reconciliation and renew relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Métis by providing policy and program advice through joint committees at the Director General-level, Assistant Deputy Minister-level and Deputy Minister-level. Joint committee work is focused on intersecting policy and program areas including:

• closing the infrastructure gap;
• negotiating and implementing regional education agreements;
• addressing Indigenous community health care and mental wellness;
• advancing economic reconciliation with Indigenous partners;
• working with Provinces and Territories to advance reconciliation;
• and the United Nations Declaration Act Action Plan.

• Program: All
• Associated Canadian Indicator Framework (CIF) targets or ambitions and/or Global Indicator Framework (GIF) targets:
  • CIF Ambition: Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships to advance the SDGs
  • CIF Indicator 17.2.1: Total official support for sustainable development
  • SDG 17: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development
• 2023-24 Results achieved:
  • Notes: ISC plays a vital role in supporting CIRNAC in advancing the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs with a strong emphasis on reconciliation. ISC collaborates with CIRNAC to develop and implement policies that integrate Indigenous perspectives, fostering dialogue and ensuring that these policies address community needs. Supporting self-determination for Indigenous communities through the transfer of control over service delivery is central to reconciliation and contributes to reducing inequalities and strengthening institutions.
    • ISC helps to strengthen Indigenous governance structures, which are vital for effective self-determination and reconciliation. This includes supporting capacity-building efforts and ensuring Indigenous voices are heard in decision-making processes, which contributes to achieving SDGs related to quality education (Goal 4) and reduced inequalities (Goal 10).
    • Economic development initiatives, such as the funding for the Indigenous Community Business Fund, support job creation and infrastructure improvements. This includes providing funding and resources for projects that create jobs, improve infrastructure, and boost local economies. These efforts align with the SDGs on decent work and economic growth (Goal 8) and industry, innovation, and infrastructure (Goal 9). These efforts align with SDGs related to industry, innovation, and infrastructure.
    • Additionally, ISC collaborates with CIRNAC to improve health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples, which is a key component of reconciliation. This includes investing in health services, mental health support, and initiatives that address social determinants of health, contributing to the SDGs on good health and well-being (Goal 3).
    • ISC supports initiatives that promote environmental sustainability in Indigenous communities. This includes projects focused on conservation, climate action, and sustainable resource management, aligning with SDGs on clean water and sanitation (Goal 6) and climate action (Goal 13).
    • Finally, ISC aids in implementing reconciliation strategies that are part of broader national and international frameworks. This involves supporting cultural programs, educational initiatives, and public awareness campaigns that address historical injustices and promote healing, which contributes to the SDG on peace, justice, and strong institutions (Goal 16).
    • ISC supports reconciliation strategies, including cultural programs and public awareness campaigns like the National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations, addressing historical injustices and fostering healing. Through these multifaceted efforts, ISC and CIRNAC work together to advance the 2030 Agenda and SDGs, with reconciliation at the core of their approach.
• 2024-25 Results achieved:
  • Notes: Through multifaceted efforts, in 2024-25 ISC and CIRNAC worked together to advance the 2030 Agenda and SDGs, with reconciliation at the core of their approach.
    • ISC and CIRNAC work collaboratively to achieve their IM/IT/DM departmental priorities. Helping both departments build their technological infrastructure to ensure more robust and sustainable programs. Such as the move to more internet related services to reduce paper use and other carbon emissions.
    • ISC continues to support CIRNAC to advance and renew relationships with First Nations, Inuit and Metis on intersecting policy areas based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership. CFSR's commitment to advancing reconciliation is actively demonstrated by transparent reporting and monitoring of progress related to government-wide initiatives at the national and international level led by CIRNAC or other departments but gathered sectors within ISC. By aligning ISC's efforts with established frameworks created by external, and often independent, Indigenous-led, non-political organizations working to advance reconciliation, ISC aims to ensure accountability, promote dissemination of findings, and build trust with Indigenous groups, communities, and Peoples.
    • As of March 2025, ISC concluded 11 Regional Education Agreements (REAs), nine of which are active, and one signed in Little Red River, Saskatchewan. ISC Supported over 25,000 students in five provinces, In addition, over 50 First Nations accessed REA development funding.
    • ISC continued to engage with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Nation partners on the distinctions-based post-secondary education strategies, including in the annual review of the programs' National Guidelines, discussions on possible modifications to increase program flexibilities to better meet partners' needs, and supporting partners' questions/concerns regarding program implementation, funding concerns and pre-budget submissions.
    • ISC continued to deliver the First Nations and Inuit Youth Employment Strategy (FNIYES), which aims to reduce employment barriers for youth aged 15 to 30 by developing their employability skills through mentored and subsidized work experiences, integrate educational opportunities in high-demand sectors, and access to networks and other relevant career development resources. The FNIYES uniquely focuses on First Nations and Inuit youth and community control on decision about local labour market needs and priorities. The FNIYES provides approximately 7,000 employment and skills development opportunities annually through 300+ funded recipient organizations.
    • ISC has continued to work with First Nation partners to better understand and address the needs of Income Assistance clients and First Nation communities.
    • ISC worked with First Nations and Inuit partners to advance the co-development and implementation of a Long-Term and Continuing Care Framework.
    • ISC Funded additional Short-term Capacity-Building projects, which help boost communities' capacity to provide services and thereby addresses community well-being
    • In 2024-25, ISC Continued to collaborate with key partners to co-develop a new performance measurement framework that aligns with the needs of both Treasury Board and Indigenous Partners. As one of its key measures of success in fostering collaboration, the Family Violence Prevention Program utilizes the following indicator: Capacity of partner organizations to lead the delivery of safety and prevention programming and/or mentorship to family violence shelters/TH facilities is improving.
    • Through direct support from the Family Violence Prevention Program, Indigenous Organizations playing a leading role in the provision of shelter and transitional housing services are able to foster greater collaboration starting at the grass-roots level. The program also provides core funding to the National Indigenous Circle Against Family Violence to build shelter capacity and act as a national coordinator by supporting Indigenous-led shelters and their staff through: training forums, violence prevention activities, and research and collaboration with key partners. In 2024, the National Indigenous Circle Against Family Violence was able to facilitate four training sessions to Shelter Providers across Canada, in addition to holding their annual gathering.
    • In 2024-25 ISC developed the DM Action Plan for Indigenous Inclusion. Some initial consultations and research efforts have been taking place in 2024-25 to start planning the work to be done to draft a Mental Health Strategy which recognizes the needs of ISC Indigenous employees. Work will continue in 2025-26 and future years.
    • ISC Completed 58 field inspections in nursing facilities to assess and improve employees safety, leading to the development of action plans. Implementation of these plans involves close collaboration among multiple stakeholders & partners, including ISC, health care providers, and Indigenous communities. The inspections and the resulting action plans reflect a commitment to collaboration and partnership. By engaging multiple partners & stakeholders (ISC, Indigenous communities, and healthcare providers), this work directly supports SDG 17, which focuses on strengthening partnerships for collaboration. The security improvements made through these action plans contribute to the sustainable development of healthcare services for Indigenous communities, ensuring safe environments that align with Canada's official support for sustainable development. This accomplishment highlights how Canada fosters collaboration and partnerships, bringing together various stakeholders to address critical health and safety issues, demonstrating active progress toward advancing the SDGs. By working closely with Indigenous communities, this initiative not only improves safety but also supports reconciliation by ensuring that Indigenous communities are included in processes related to their healthcare infrastructure.