Blackfoot Confederacy logo. (Image: Blackfoot Confederacy)

By David Opinko

Local First Nations receive funding for economic development projects

Aug 20, 2025 | 1:25 PM

The federal government has announced new funding to help bolster the economies of Indigenous communities in southern Alberta.

It will allocate more than $5.9 million to seven initiatives in the province, including two in the south region.

The Siksika Nation will receive $810,300 to establish a new business resource centre and deliver programming to entrepreneurs.

The Rural Routes to Climate Solutions Society will use $458,250 to help the Blackfoot Confederacy adopt regenerative agricultural practices by launching a program to promote agribusinesses.

Elanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, says the funding will help communities to strengthen rural employers.

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“From arts and cultural venues to agribusinesses and tourism, rural and Indigenous communities across the Prairies are home to a multitude of businesses and initiatives that fuel Canada’s economy and advance economic reconciliation,” says Olszewski.

She continues, “Our new government’s investments will help address the unique needs and opportunities of local communities to realize their vision for long-term economic development.”

The full list of groups receiving funding can be found on Canada.ca