2025-2026 Reporting on the Calls for Justice 13.1 to 13.5: Calls for Extractive and Development Industries

As development of major resource and infrastructure projects has become an increasingly prominent government priority, Indigenous peoples have warned of the heightened risks to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, particularly along major project and human trafficking corridors. Urgent concerns have been raised that accelerating major projects will intensify risks of human trafficking, gender-based violence, and other harms.

In the absence of dedicated funding, NRCan continued to maximize its limited capacity and respond to concerns by engaging in select dialogues, including with the Government of Canada’s Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, conducting research, and advancing strategic partnerships to develop practical tools and supports for the following:

• Indigenous-led initiatives: NRCan has heard clearly that there is a need to strengthen local systems, safety mechanisms, healing supports for survivors and families, guardians programs, culturally grounded youth programming, transportation solutions, housing supports, and other community driven initiatives; the Department is working with federal partners to ensure that policy and funding are better aligned and guided by Indigenous-informed recommendations
• The Government of Canada: NRCan established an MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Regulatory Working Group to coordinate federal efforts and share wise practices during the review of regulatory frameworks (in the resources development space). In collaboration with federal Gender Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) teams, NRCan is developing a GBA+ type tool to ensure MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development considerations are applied at all stages of federal program and policy development and implementation.
• Project proponents: NRCan is developing a compendium of community-identified promising practices and approaches to provide industry with guidance on how to reduce and prevent harms to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development

NRCan is exploring opportunities to collaborate with other federal departments to address MMIWG2S+ in resource development to:

• support Indigenous-led engagement on safety, prevention and mitigation related to resource development
• better align federal policy and funding tools
• translate community input into practical, Indigenous-informed guidance for project proponents and investors across the project lifecycle

NRCan’s MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Policy Team is leading work that responds to Call for Justice 13.1 by collaborating with federal and external partners to prevent and reduce the negative impacts associated with natural resource development on Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people and ensure they benefit from development. For example, the team participated in regional engagements with Indigenous communities and organizations with the Government of Canada’s Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, to gather a diverse range of insights and recommendations on practical actions to facilitate safe and secure resource development. Based on these insights, and in the context of the Building Canada Act and the government’s commitments to fast-track projects of national interest, NRCan has refined its strategy to better respond to Call for Justice 13.1 through development of practical tools and supports.

Indigenous engagement, empowerment, and inclusion:

• Supports distinctions-based engagement processes that center the knowledge and experiences of Indigenous Peoples, particularly matriarchs, Elders, grassroots advocates, families, and survivors
• Supports the development of culturally grounded responses to violence, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking associated with resource development. Promotes the recognition and respect of Indigenous rights by fostering meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations
• Empowers Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and benefit from resource development through leadership roles, economic participation, and involvement in policy and decision-making processes

Strengthened government response:

• Improved coordination across federal departments, with Indigenous partners, and with industry to address systemic risks and improve accountability in the natural resource sector
• Strengthened interdepartmental through the Impact Assessment Agency’s MMIWG2S+ Sub Working Group, and the 4th Annual Indigenous-Federal-Provincial-Territorial meeting on MMIWG2S+

NRCan’s MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Policy Team is funded through existing departmental resources. The team is strengthening collaboration and coordination with key federal departments to align efforts, reduce duplication, and better position itself to meet emerging priorities.

In 2025-2026, nine subcommittee meetings, one Alberta youth training pilot event, one Wise Practices event and three Circle gatherings took place to support this work.

Throughout the fiscal year, representatives from the 129 potentially impacted communities from the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, along with federal representatives, will have participated in IAMC-TMX SESC meetings, events or related gatherings, including:

• Tsleil-Waututh Nation
• Nooaitch First Nation
• Musqueam Indian Band
• BC Métis Federation
• Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association
• Montana First Nation
• Stoney Nakoda Nations
• Tsuut'ina Nation
• Penelakut Tribe
• Tseycum First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Bonaparte First Nation
• Seabird Island Band
• Skwah First Nation
• Kikino Metis Settlement
• Chawathil First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation
• Upper Nicola Band
• Sumas First Nation
• Esk-etemc First Nation
• Kwikwetlem First Nation
• Whitefish Lake First Nation
• National Family and Survivors Circle Inc.
• Justice For Girls

The IAMC-TMX’s Socio-Economic Subcomittee responds to Call for Justice 13.1 through collaborating with government departments and agencies, and the project operator (Trans Mountain Corporation), to better understand emergent issues related to the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people during the post-construction and operations phase of a major natural resource infrastructure project.

In 2025-2026, the SESC is supporting the data sovereignty efforts of 40 Indigenous Nations through delivery of First Nations Ownership, Control, Access and Possession ("OCAP") training, and with a view to enhancing Nations’ ability to capture relevant data, including gender-specific data.

• Community capacity building: Supporting strength building for Indigenous communities related to identifying, monitoring and mitigating socioeconomic effects related to natural resource development;
• Collaboration and cooperation: Working with federal regulators and legislators to adjust regulations and ways of working with Indigenous peoples regarding the identification, prediction, mitigation, monitoring, follow-up and management of socioeconomic effects; and
• Safety and security: Addressing the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people and improving their capacity to benefit from major resource project developments.

In 2024, the federal government committed $44 million over three years (2024-2027) to the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Energy Infrastructure Projects, of which the IAMC-TMX is one. Of that amount, $7.9 million in grants and contributions funding was allocated to the IAMC-TMX in 2025-2026, with $544,870 of that directed specifically to the Socioeconomic Subcommittee.

As development of major resource and infrastructure projects has become an increasingly prominent government priority, Indigenous peoples have warned of the heightened risks to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, particularly along major project and human trafficking corridors. Urgent concerns have been raised that accelerating major projects will intensify risks of human trafficking, gender-based violence, and other harms. These concerns reflect long-standing patterns associated with large-scale resource development, as documented by the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and a growing body of research.

In the absence of dedicated funding, NRCan continued to maximize its limited capacity and respond to concerns by engaging in select dialogues, including with the Government of Canada’s Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, conducting research, and advancing strategic partnerships to develop practical tools and supports for the following.

• Indigenous-led initiatives: NRCan has heard clearly that there is a need to strengthen local systems, safety mechanisms, healing supports for survivors and families, guardians programs, culturally grounded youth programming, transportation solutions, housing supports, and other community driven initiatives. The Department is working with federal partners to ensure that policy and funding are better aligned and guided by Indigenous-informed recommendations
• The Government of Canada: NRCan established an MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Regulatory Working Group to coordinate federal efforts and share wise practices during the review of regulatory frameworks (in the resources development space). In collaboration with federal Gender Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) teams, NRCan is developing a GBA+ type tool to ensure MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development considerations are applied at all stages of federal program and policy development and implementation.
• Project proponents: NRCan is developing a compendium of community-identified promising practices and approaches to provide industry with guidance on how to reduce and prevent harms to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development

NRCan is exploring opportunities to collaborate with other federal departments to address MMIWG2S+ in resource development to:

• support Indigenous-led engagement on safety, prevention and mitigation related to resource development
• better align federal policy and funding tools
• translate community input into practical, Indigenous-informed guidance for project proponents and investors across the project lifecycle

NRCan’s MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Policy Team is leading work that responds to Call for Justice 13.2 by identifying opportunities and taking action to increase understanding and mitigate impacts of resource development projects on Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people. For example, through a scan of federal working groups and other initiatives that support regulatory reform, NRCan identified an important gap and created a working group to collaborate with federal portfolio agencies and regulators in coordinating efforts and leveraging the insights, advice and recommendations of First Nations, Inuit and Métis leadership, MMIWG2S+ advocates, communities, and partners across the country to inform the reviews and potential transformation of existing regulatory frameworks.

Indigenous engagement, empowerment, and inclusion:

• Supports distinctions-based engagement processes that center the knowledge and experiences of Indigenous Peoples, particularly matriarchs, Elders, grassroots advocates, families, and survivors
• Supports the development of culturally grounded responses to violence, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking associated with resource development. Promotes the recognition and respect of Indigenous rights by fostering meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations
• Empowers Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and benefit from resource development through leadership roles, economic participation, and involvement in policy and decision-making processes

Strengthened government response:

• Improved coordination across federal departments, with Indigenous partners, and with industry to address systemic risks and improve accountability in the natural resource sector

NRCan’s MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Policy Team is funded through existing departmental resources. The team is strengthening collaboration and coordination with key federal departments to align efforts, reduce duplication, and better position itself to meet emerging priorities.

In 2025-2026, nine subcommittee meetings, one Alberta youth training pilot event, one Wise Practices event and three Circle gatherings took place to support this work.

Throughout the fiscal year, representatives from the 129 potentially impacted communities from the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, along with federal representatives, will have participated in IAMC-TMX SESC meetings, events or related gatherings, including:

• Tsleil-Waututh Nation
• Nooaitch First Nation
• Musqueam Indian Band
• BC Métis Federation
• Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association
• Montana First Nation
• Stoney Nakoda Nations
• Tsuut'ina Nation
• Penelakut Tribe
• Tseycum First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Bonaparte First Nation
• Seabird Island Band
• Skwah First Nation
• Kikino Metis Settlement
• Chawathil First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation
• Upper Nicola Band
• Sumas First Nation
• Esk-etemc First Nation
• Kwikwetlem First Nation
• Whitefish Lake First Nation
• National Family and Survivors Circle Inc.
• Justice For Girls

The IAMC-TMX’s Socio-Economic Subcommittee ("SESC") responds to part of Call for Justice 13.2 by addressing and developing a better understanding of Indigenous gender-based issues as they pertain to the Trans Mountain Expansion Project.

In 2025-2026, the SESC continues to collaborate with Trans Mountain Corporation on delivery of a Project Management for Indigenous Women certificate program to support Indigenous Nations community-based socioeconomic monitoring efforts.

Also in 2025-2026, the SESC hosted a Wise Practices gathering focused on Protecting and Promoting Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit & Gender Diverse People in the Context of the Building Canada Act, 2025.

• Community capacity building: Supporting strength building for Indigenous communities related to identifying, monitoring and mitigating socioeconomic effects related to natural resource development;
• Collaboration and cooperation: Working with federal regulators and legislators to adjust regulations and ways of working with Indigenous peoples regarding the identification, prediction, mitigation, monitoring, follow-up and management of socioeconomic effects; and
• Safety and security: Addressing the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people and improving their capacity to benefit from major resource project developments.

In 2024, the federal government committed $44 million over three years (2024-2027) to the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Energy Infrastructure Projects, of which the IAMC-TMX is one. Of that amount, $7.9 million in grants and contributions funding was allocated to the IAMC-TMX in 2025-2026, with $544,870 of that directed specifically to the Socioeconomic Subcommittee.

In 2025-2026, nine subcommittee meetings, one Alberta youth training pilot event, one Wise Practices event and three Circle gatherings took place to support this work.

Throughout the fiscal year, representatives from the 129 potentially impacted communities from the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, along with federal representatives, will have participated in IAMC-TMX SESC meetings, events or related gatherings, including:

• Tsleil-Waututh Nation
• Nooaitch First Nation
• Musqueam Indian Band
• BC Métis Federation
• Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association
• Montana First Nation
• Stoney Nakoda Nations
• Tsuut'ina Nation
• Penelakut Tribe
• Tseycum First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Bonaparte First Nation
• Seabird Island Band
• Skwah First Nation
• Kikino Metis Settlement
• Chawathil First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation
• Upper Nicola Band
• Sumas First Nation
• Esk-etemc First Nation
• Kwikwetlem First Nation
• Whitefish Lake First Nation
• National Family and Survivors Circle Inc.
• Justice For Girls

The IAMC-TMX’s Socio-Economic Subcommittee responds to Call for Justice 13.3 as the subcommittee is comprised of representatives of relevant government departments and federal regulators, members from impacted Indigenous communities, and in some instances, other relevant parties including Trans Mountain Corporation representatives.

In 2025-2026, the SESC is implementing an Indigenous-centered evaluation of Trans Mountain’s socioeconomic effects monitoring plan (Condition 13) including through a survey instrument shared with 129 affected Indigenous communities to capture Nation perspectives, including through a gendered lens, regarding socioeconomic impacts, benefits and outcomes.

• Community capacity building:  Supporting strength building for Indigenous communities related to identifying, monitoring and mitigating socioeconomic effects related to natural resource development;
• Collaboration and cooperation: Working with federal regulators and legislators to adjust regulations and ways of working with Indigenous peoples regarding the identification, prediction, mitigation, monitoring, follow-up and management of socioeconomic effects; and
• Safety and security: Addressing the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people and improving their capacity to benefit from major resource project developments.

In 2024, the federal government committed $44 million over three years (2024-2027) to the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Energy Infrastructure Projects, of which the IAMC-TMX is one. Of that amount, $7.9 million in grants and contributions funding was allocated to the IAMC-TMX in 2025-2026, with $544,870 of that directed specifically to the Socioeconomic Subcommittee.

As development of major resource and infrastructure projects has become an increasingly prominent government priority, Indigenous peoples have warned of the heightened risks to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, particularly along major project and human trafficking corridors. Urgent concerns have been raised that accelerating major projects will intensify risks of human trafficking, gender-based violence, and other harms.

In the absence of dedicated funding, NRCan continued to maximize its limited capacity and respond to concerns by engaging in select dialogues, including with the Government of Canada’s Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, conducting research, and advancing strategic partnerships to develop practical tools and supports for the following:

• Indigenous-led initiatives: NRCan has heard clearly that there is a need to strengthen local systems, safety mechanisms, healing supports for survivors and families, guardians programs, culturally grounded youth programming, transportation solutions, housing supports, and other community driven initiatives; the Department is working with federal partners to ensure that policy and funding are better aligned and guided by Indigenous-informed recommendations
• The Government of Canada: NRCan established an MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Regulatory Working Group to coordinate federal efforts and share wise practices during the review of regulatory frameworks (in the resources development space). In collaboration with federal Gender Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) teams, NRCan is developing a GBA+ type tool to ensure MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development considerations are applied at all stages of federal program and policy development and implementation
• Project proponents: NRCan is developing a case studies with promising practices and approaches to provide industry with guidance on how to reduce and prevent harms to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development

NRCan is exploring opportunities to collaborate with other federal departments to address MMIWG2S+ in resource development to:

• support Indigenous-led engagement on safety, prevention and mitigation related to resource development
• better align federal policy and funding tools
• translate community input into practical, Indigenous-informed guidance for project proponents and investors across the project lifecycle

Despite the absence of dedicated funding, NRCan’s MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Policy Team continued to advance work under Call for Justice 13.4 by leveraging existing resources; forming strategic partnerships; and undertaking research, including monitoring and assessing the growing body of evidence and insights shared by a diverse range of Indigenous leadership, communities, MMIWG2S+ advocates, families and survivors. These efforts are strengthening the understanding of MMIWG2S+ and linkages to resource development.

Indigenous engagement, empowerment, and inclusion:

• Supports distinctions-based engagement processes that center the knowledge and experiences of Indigenous Peoples, particularly matriarchs, Elders, grassroots advocates, families, and survivors
• Supports the development of culturally grounded responses to violence, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking associated with resource development. Promotes the recognition and respect of Indigenous rights by fostering meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations
• Empowers Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and benefit from resource development through leadership roles, economic participation, and involvement in policy and decision-making processes

Strengthened government response:

• Improved coordination across federal departments, with Indigenous partners, and with industry to address systemic risks and improve accountability in the natural resource sector

NRCan’s MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Policy Team is funded through existing departmental resources. The team is strengthening collaboration and coordination with key federal departments to align efforts, reduce duplication, and better position itself to meet emerging priorities.

In 2025-2026, nine subcommittee meetings, one Alberta youth training pilot event, one Wise Practices event and three Circle gatherings took place to support this work.

Throughout the fiscal year, representatives from the 129 potentially impacted communities from the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, along with federal representatives, will have participated in IAMC-TMX SESC meetings, events or related gatherings, including:

• Tsleil-Waututh Nation
• Nooaitch First Nation
• Musqueam Indian Band
• BC Métis Federation
• Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association
• Montana First Nation
• Stoney Nakoda Nations
• Tsuut'ina Nation
• Penelakut Tribe
• Tseycum First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Bonaparte First Nation
• Seabird Island Band
• Skwah First Nation
• Kikino Metis Settlement
• Chawathil First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation
• Upper Nicola Band
• Sumas First Nation
• Esk-etemc First Nation
• Kwikwetlem First Nation
• Whitefish Lake First Nation
• National Family and Survivors Circle Inc.
• Justice For Girls

The IAMC-TMX’s Socio-Economic Subcommittee responds to Call for Justice 13.4 as the subcommittee has undertaken work (e.g. a research study in the North Thompson region of BC) to further understand the relationship between resource extraction impacts to the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, to inform itself and other interested government departments and impacted Indigenous communities. An example includes:

In 2025-2026, the SESC is delivering an Indigenous-youth pilot training program focused on 'know your rights/self-defense’ to 12 Alberta First Nations and Métis communities.

• Community capacity building:  Supporting strength building for Indigenous communities related to identifying, monitoring and mitigating socioeconomic effects related to natural resource development;
• Collaboration and cooperation: Working with federal regulators and legislators to adjust regulations and ways of working with Indigenous peoples regarding the identification, prediction, mitigation, monitoring, follow-up and management of socioeconomic effects; and
• Safety and security: Addressing the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people and improving their capacity to benefit from major resource project developments.

In 2024, the federal government committed $44 million over three years (2024-2027) to the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Energy Infrastructure Projects, of which the IAMC-TMX is one. Of that amount, $7.9 million in grants and contributions funding was allocated to the IAMC-TMX in 2025-2026, with $544,870 of that directed specifically to the Socioeconomic Subcommittee.

• The program’s final call for proposals occurred in 2025
• Projects selected through the two phase technical and place-based reviews are currently in a agreement and contracting phase, with planned launch dates early in fiscal year 2026-2027
• Fiscal year 2025-2026 reporting is unavailable at this time

The Arctic and Northern Challenge Program responds to part of Call for Justice 13.5 by supporting Northern-led applied research and technology development to help anticipate and address increased demand on social infrastructure associated with development projects and resource extraction, including the need to identify mitigation measures during planning and approval processes. By funding research across housing, health, food, and water, the program can generate practical tools, approaches, and evidence that communities, governments, and proponents can draw on to understand service pressures and plan for expanded capacity in advance, including needs related to health and social services and other essential community systems. The program’s emphasis on Northern participation in the design, governance, delivery, and dissemination of research also supports community-defined identification of risks and locally grounded solutions that can be applied in development contexts. Indigenous families, survivors and communities benefit from strengthened Northern-led capacity and applied solutions that can support earlier planning for service pressures and safer community conditions when development activity increases.

• Northern-led applied research and governance: The program prioritizes Northern-led project design, governance, delivery, and dissemination, ensuring research priorities and solutions reflect Northern knowledge, context, and community-defined needs.
• Safer, more suitable, and more affordable housing solutions: Applied research and technology development advances practical improvements to housing adequacy, suitability, and affordability, reducing risks linked to overcrowding, disrepair, and high operating costs in Arctic and Northern communities.
• Improved access to culturally safe and appropriate health supports: Research on remote and local care models, culturally safe care and communication, and locally supported detection and treatment approaches strengthens the accessibility and appropriateness of health resources in Northern contexts.
• Stronger food security and food sovereignty: Research supports improved access to traditional and nutritious foods, strengthened food system infrastructure, and better understanding of climate and shipping impacts on availability, alongside food safety, processing, and storage solutions.
• More reliable water and wastewater security: Research strengthens water availability, accessibility, and quality through innovations that address infrastructure, operations and maintenance, and contaminant monitoring and treatment, supporting safer community conditions.
• Increased Northern research and development capacity: Skills development and technology and innovation pathways strengthen individual, organizational, and community capacity.

Funds expended during fiscal year 2025-2026 were approximately $1.4 million for research project collaboration with NRC.

Federal investments in 2024 provided funding to build or renovate health facilities, including support for the Virtual Health Hub led by the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies. As of September 5, 2025, $100.3 million has been invested to support the following projects:

• The WAHA Hospital Redevelopment project, led by the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority and the Province of Ontario, includes the construction of a hospital and administrative annex, staff accommodations, patient hostel, long-term elder care and an ambulatory care centre.
  • In spring 2025, construction began on the new hospital and the staff accommodations building (Phase 2), with foundation work commencing on the patient hostel in fall 2025.
  • The Phase 1 accommodations (modular units) have been completed.
  • Site selection has been completed and final designs are underway for the ambulatory care centre.
• The Virtual Health Hub in Saskatchewan, is an innovative and community-led model of care, which will provide access to primary care physicians and other health human resources needed in rural, remote, and Northern Indigenous communities.
  • Indigenous people will be able to virtually connect to health professionals through specialized assessment and treatment technology allowing local healthcare teams to help care for patients in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
  • Construction of the new health facility has begun on Whitecap Dakota First Nations on-reserve land.

The initiative responds to part of Call for Justice 13.5 by ensuring that First Nations communities have the health infrastructure and capacity needed to meet the needs of the community, in areas in and around resource extraction projects. Infrastructure upgrades and new builds may facilitate services such as mental health care, emergency response, and monitoring services, particularly in regions where development pressures intersect with community health risks.

Indigenous survivors, families, and communities benefit from health infrastructure that enhances their ability to respond to health impacts tied to environmental and resource-related factors. Investments in infrastructure strengthen the capacity of Indigenous communities to protect and promote holistic health and wellness.

• Expands health access: Supports timely access to quality care through improved facilities
• Community-led design: Aligns infrastructure development with Indigenous needs and values
• Supports innovation: Includes investment in digital health services like the Virtual Health Hub
• Enhances emergency readiness: Enables facilities to respond to crises and trauma-informed needs
• Promotes cultural safety: Ensures spaces reflect Indigenous languages, customs, and healing practices

In the 2025-26 fiscal year, six major capital projects were funded from 2024 allocations including:

• $90 million to the Weeneebayko Area Health Authority (WAHA) Hospital Redevelopment Project
• $18.3 million to the Virtual Health Hub in Saskatchewan
• $49.7 million towards health facility construction projects in:
  • Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation in Manitoba ($23.9 million)
  • Tsuut'ina in Alberta ($8.4 million), Henvey Inlet in Ontario ($4.8 million)
  • Fort McMurray First Nation in Alberta ($3 million)
  • Grandmother's Bay in Saskatchewan ($2.9 million)
  • Nemeiben River in Saskatchewan ($1.9 million)
  • Lubicon in Alberta ($1.9 million)
  • Grassy Narrows in Ontario ($1.7 million)
  • James Smith First Nation in Saskatchewan ($1.2 million)

In addition, two major repair projects were funded at health facilities in:

• Nibinamik First Nation in Ontario ($2.3 million)
• Neskantaga in Ontario ($1.9 million)

Funding is being used to support infrastructure priorities as determined by Indigenous partners and informed by a needs-based prioritization framework that identifies where priority investment may be required.

As development of major resource and infrastructure projects has become an increasingly prominent government priority, Indigenous peoples have warned of the heightened risks to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people, particularly along major project and human trafficking corridors. Urgent concerns have been raised that accelerating major projects will intensify risks of human trafficking, gender-based violence, and other harms.

In the absence of dedicated funding, NRCan continued to maximize its limited capacity and respond to concerns by engaging in select dialogues, including with the Government of Canada’s Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking, conducting research, and advancing strategic partnerships to develop practical tools and supports for the following:

• Indigenous-led initiatives: NRCan has heard clearly that there is a need to strengthen local systems, safety mechanisms, healing supports for survivors and families, guardians programs, culturally grounded youth programming, transportation solutions, housing supports, and other community driven initiatives; the Department is working with federal partners to ensure that policy and funding are better aligned and guided by Indigenous-informed recommendations
• The Government of Canada: NRCan established an MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Regulatory Working Group to coordinate federal efforts and share wise practices during the review of regulatory frameworks (in the resources development space). In collaboration with federal Gender Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) teams, NRCan is developing a GBA+ type tool to ensure MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development considerations are applied at all stages of federal program and policy development and implementation
• Project proponents: NRCan is developing a case studies with promising practices and approaches to provide industry with guidance on how to reduce and prevent harms to Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people in the context of resource development

NRCan is exploring opportunities to collaborate with other federal departments to address MMIWG2S+ in resource development to:

• support Indigenous-led engagement on safety, prevention and mitigation related to resource development
• better align federal policy and funding tools
• translate community input into practical, Indigenous-informed guidance for project proponents and investors across the project lifecycle

Further to its work in support of Call for Justice 13.4, NRCan’s MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Policy Team is responding to Call for Justice 13.5 by strengthening relationships across the federal government. For example, it is bringing departments together to better leverage funding programs. The team also began assessing how its work could inform tools like socioeconomic assessments, but with a clear focus on safety and combatting the cumulative non-environmental impacts of resource projects, like those on social infrastructure (e.g., health/social/emergency services). While still in early stages, the Department has engaged in discussions to pinpoint how to enable its program and policy development complement to identify, analyze and address cumulative non-environmental impacts of resource development as part of federal programs and policies from engagement to reporting. These discussions include several federal GBA+ teams, MMMIWG2S+ advocates and other key stakeholders through regional dialogue, and portfolio agencies and regulators through the creation of its SP12 MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Regulatory Working Group.

Indigenous engagement, empowerment, and inclusion:

• Supports distinctions-based engagement processes that center the knowledge and experiences of Indigenous Peoples, particularly matriarchs, Elders, grassroots advocates, families, and survivors
• Supports the development of culturally grounded responses to violence, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking associated with resource development. Promotes the recognition and respect of Indigenous rights by fostering meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations
• Empowers Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people to influence and benefit from resource development through leadership roles, economic participation, and involvement in policy and decision-making processes

Strengthened government response:

• Improved coordination across federal departments, with Indigenous partners, and with industry to address systemic risks and improve accountability in the natural resource sector

NRCan’s MMIWG2S+ in Resource Development Policy Team is funded through existing departmental resources. The team is strengthening collaboration and coordination with key federal departments to align efforts, reduce duplication, and better position itself to meet emerging priorities.

In 2025-2026, nine subcommittee meetings, one Alberta youth training pilot event, one Wise Practices event and three Circle gatherings took place to support this work.

Throughout the fiscal year, representatives from the 129 potentially impacted communities from the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, along with federal representatives, will have participated in IAMC-TMX SESC meetings, events or related gatherings, including:

• Tsleil-Waututh Nation
• Nooaitch First Nation
• Musqueam Indian Band
• BC Métis Federation
• Lac Ste. Anne Métis Community Association
• Montana First Nation
• Stoney Nakoda Nations
• Tsuut'ina Nation
• Penelakut Tribe
• Tseycum First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Bonaparte First Nation
• Seabird Island Band
• Skwah First Nation
• Kikino Metis Settlement
• Chawathil First Nation
• Twawout First Nation
• Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation
• Upper Nicola Band
• Sumas First Nation
• Esk-etemc First Nation
• Kwikwetlem First Nation
• Whitefish Lake First Nation
• National Family and Survivors Circle Inc.
• Justice For Girls

The IAMC-TMX’s Socio-Economic Subcommittee responds to part of Call for Justice 13.5 as the subcommittee was formed, in part, as a response to concerns around the influx of non-local workers and temporary work camps related to the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, and the potential for increased demands on social infrastructure.

In 2025-2026, the SESC is producing a Socioeconomic Learning Series that highlights the social, economic, health and well-being issues identified by Indigenous Nations involved with the Trans Mountain Expansion Project, and which will identifies key learnings for consideration in future projects.

• Community capacity building: Supporting strength building for Indigenous communities related to identifying, monitoring and mitigating socioeconomic effects related to natural resource development;
• Collaboration and cooperation: Working with federal regulators and legislators to adjust regulations and ways of working with Indigenous peoples regarding the identification, prediction, mitigation, monitoring, follow-up and management of socioeconomic effects; and
• Safety and security: Addressing the safety and security of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people and improving their capacity to benefit from major resource project developments.

In 2024, the federal government committed $44 million over three years (2024-2027) to the Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for Energy Infrastructure Projects, of which the IAMC-TMX is one. Of that amount, $7.9 million in grants and contributions funding was allocated to the IAMC-TMX in 2025-2026, with $544,870 of that directed specifically to the Socioeconomic Subcommittee.

The ICIF responded to Call for Justice 13.5 by ensuring social infrastructure is in place to meet the needs of Indigenous communities impacted by development projects from the natural resources industry. It invests to alleviate pressures on housing, healthcare, and education in communities experiencing industry related growth and to ensure community-wide access to necessary social services and infrastructure. Indigenous survivors, families, and communities benefit from this program as it works to ensure that essential infrastructure is in place to support community well-being and resilience in the face of development pressures.

The ICIF – First Nations On Reserves Component was a $2.83 billion fund over four years, starting in 2021-2022, with investments delivered through ISC’s existing infrastructure programs. Funding was allocated to shovel-ready projects to ensure communities could respond to immediate infrastructure demands. $122.8 million of ICIF – First Nations On Reserves funding was invested in fiscal year 2024-2025, the final year of ICIF funding for First Nations on Reserves, including $48.9 million to support education infrastructure, $48.6 million to support health infrastructure, and $25.4 million to support transfer of infrastructure service delivery initiatives.

The ICIF – Urban Infrastructure Component was a $194.9 million fund over three years. $23.7 million was invested in 2024-2025 to support infrastructure for urban and off-reserve communities.

The ICIF – Inuit Component responds to Call for Justice 13.5 by supporting Inuit governance over infrastructure development. The funding allows Inuit partners to establish specific strategies for managing infrastructure projects, including plans to mitigate pressures in communities affected by development projects and resource extraction. Inuit families, survivors, and communities benefit from this program by having control over infrastructure projects that align with their economic, social, and environmental priorities.

• Sustainable infrastructure planning: Invests to support infrastructure strategies that mitigate impacts of development and resource extraction, while supporting economic and social sustainability.
• Inuit governance in infrastructure: Strengthened decision-making authority in infrastructure development.
• Inuit-led and regional self-determined solutions: Provides distinctions-based funding to Inuit Treaty Organizations to self-determine community-specific priorities for housing and infrastructure. Ensures housing aligns with Inuit cultural, environmental, and geographic needs, including considerations for northern climates and community structures. Addresses regional infrastructure needs that are developed and managed by and for Inuit communities.
• Strengthened infrastructure for community support services: Extends funding to community centers and emergency shelters, providing critical support services for individuals facing housing insecurity or fleeing violence. Increases the availability of safe spaces for Inuit women and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.
• Increased availability of safe and culturally appropriate housing: Supports the construction of new housing and repairs to existing homes in Inuit communities. Enhances safety through improved living conditions and infrastructure upgrades.

The ICIF – Inuit Component provides distinctions-based funding that allows Inuit Treaty Organizations and other Indigenous-led entities to allocate resources in response to community-identified priorities. As a result, the specific impacts and project details remain with the funding recipients, who determine how best to meet the infrastructure needs in their communities.

Funding has been allocated to support critical infrastructure projects, including shelters and homes for vulnerable populations, heritage centres, and community centres. Details are not provided in this report due to the autonomous and community-led nature of project implementation. This approach aligns with the principle of self-determination, ensuring that Inuit governance structures have full authority over decision-making processes.

Budget 2021 allocated $517.8 million for this initiative, enabling Inuit-led infrastructure development to address critical needs in Inuit communities. Funding is allocated regionally and split among Inuit Treaty Organizations based on a pre-determined funding formula approved by the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Board of Directors.

The ICIF – Métis Component responds to Call for Justice 13.5 by funding projects that enhance community capacity, including housing, and public spaces. These investments work to mitigate the social infrastructure demands created by resource extraction projects and ensuring that Métis communities are not disproportionately affected by industry activities. Métis families, survivors, and communities benefit from this program through strengthened community infrastructure that both mitigates social and economic pressures related to resource extraction and promotes community well-being and economic resilience.

• Mitigation of social infrastructure pressures through development: Enhances public facilities, community gathering spaces, and recreational areas, and in doing so, expands access to essential community services.
• Sustainable growth: Addresses infrastructure gaps that result from industrial pressures and ensures infrastructure keeps pace with development activities.

The ICIF – Métis Component provides flexible distinctions-based funding to Métis governments and the Metis Settlements General Council to allocate resources in response to community-identified priorities. As a result, the specific impacts and project details remain with the funding recipients, who determine how best to meet the infrastructure needs in their communities.

Funding has been allocated to support critical infrastructure projects and respond to the housing needs of the communities, with investments made in housing repairs and renovations, and improvements to community gathering spaces. Detailed examples are not provided in this report due to the autonomous and community-led nature of project implementation. This approach aligns with the principle of self-determination, ensuring that Métis governance structures have full authority over decision-making processes.

2021 investments allocated $200 million to five Métis governments and $40 million to the Metis Settlements General Council, prioritizing housing initiatives. Funding is administered with flexibility, to enable Métis governments to tailor investments to their communities' specific housing needs.