Indigenous Engagement Requirements Funding Program
Last updated on September 18, 2024The Indigenous Engagement Requirements Funding Program (IERFP) provides funding for the implementation of the Indigenous Engagement Requirements within the Emergency and Disaster Management Act (EDMA).
This funding will assist First Nations and local authorities to engage in activities outlined in the program guide under resources. The goal of this funding is to support capacity needs, relationship-building and collaboration. This program was announced in December 2023 and was updated in September 2024.
On this page
How to receive funding
There is no application required to access this funding. In fall 2024, all First Nations and local authorities will be sent an email with a funding award notice, agreement and an Interim Report Template.
Funding information can be found in the updated IER Funding Program Guide (PDF, 232KB) for recipients who:
- are joining the Indigenous Engagement Requirements Funding program for the first time, or
- will complete implementation of their Year 1 agreements by March 31, 2025, and no longer wish to participate in the Program; and
- who received an IERFP Year 1 funding award and wish to receive Year 2 program funding
Eligible recipients are requested to respond by completing the agreement to confirm participation. Recipients will be prompted to indicate the eligible activities they will undertake or participate in as part of the agreement.
Guidance on how to engage in activities is outlined in the Indigenous Engagement Requirements Interim Guidance Document and other documents under resources.
Program reporting
Recipients will receive material to assist with meeting interim and final program reporting requirements.
Throughout the first year, we gathered feedback that highlighted the need for extended timelines and additional guidance for implementing Indigenous Engagement Requirements. In response to this feedback, we have removed the September survey and introduced an interim report to ensure we continue to receive valuable input from recipients.
Program timeline
The program has been extended to March 31, 2026. These are key dates for participants to be aware of:
- September 2024 – Announcement for year 2 funding and updated online resources
- Fall 2024 to March 31, 2025– Agreements completed between recipient and the Province, and funding disbursed. Year 1 recipients accepting year 2 funding will be required to to submit an interim progress report
- February 2026 – a request will be sent to recipients to provide a final program activity update
Contact and resources
Contact the program team with your questions or for more information.
- Email: EMCR.IERFunding@gov.bc.ca