When: December 8–10, 2025
Where: JW Marriott Parq, Vancouver, British Columbia
The First Nations Investment Forum (FNIF) 2025 is Canada’s inaugural national Indigenous-led economic conference. It brings together First Nations governments, development corporations, institutional investors, project proponents, and policymakers to accelerate Indigenous-led investment, promote economic sovereignty, and foster long-term partnerships.
FNIF 2025 is designed as a platform for strategic growth, collaboration, and innovation. Over three days, participants will engage in keynotes, panels, networking sessions, and showcase investment-ready Indigenous projects, providing an unparalleled opportunity to connect with leaders shaping the future of Indigenous economic development.
What to Expect
Keynote Sessions & Presentations
Attendees will hear from respected Indigenous leaders, including JP Gladu, Carol-Anne Hilton, Teara Fraser, Carl Marcotte, and Chief Clarence Louie. Presentations will cover investment-ready projects, governance models, high-growth sectors, and strategies for economic development, grounded in Indigenous values and community priorities.
Panels & Discussion Sessions
Interactive panels will explore energy, infrastructure, natural resources, and other emerging sectors. These sessions encourage knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and practical strategies for advancing Indigenous-led economic initiatives.
Networking & Collaboration
FNIF 2025 provides robust networking opportunities for First Nations leaders, investors, project developers, and policymakers. Structured sessions and breakout rooms are designed to facilitate partnerships, project development, and long-term collaboration.
Gala Reception
On December 9, the forum hosts an evening gala reception featuring Indigenous leaders, keynote remarks, live music by Shawn Bullshields, and a three-course dinner. This celebration offers space for informal networking, recognition of Indigenous leadership, and cultural exchange.
Why It Matters
Economic Empowerment & Funding
FNIF 2025 provides a national platform for First Nations to present investment-ready projects to institutional investors, development partners, and funding programs. This access helps communities secure capital for ownership and management of large-scale developments, from energy to infrastructure, enabling Indigenous-led economic sovereignty.
Strategic Partnerships & Ownership
The forum brings together Indigenous governments, development corporations, and industry partners to foster nation-to-nation collaborations. These partnerships encourage co-ownership, joint ventures, and revenue-sharing in projects that reflect Indigenous priorities, values, and long-term community benefit.
Capital, Infrastructure & Energy Focus
A core focus of FNIF 2025 is on clean energy, infrastructure, and high-growth sectors. Panels and discussions address energy generation, transmission, utilities, and other infrastructure projects, as well as strategies to leverage public and private capital to support Indigenous-led development. Participants gain insight into financing models, project management programs, and mechanisms to increase Indigenous ownership in national infrastructure and energy initiatives.
Management, Program & Public Policy
The forum aligns with public policy and funding programs designed to enable Indigenous participation in major projects. Attendees connect with policymakers, public capital managers, and institutional investors to explore structured programs, grants, and initiatives that support sustainable, community-driven economic development.
Long-Term Impact & Self-Determination
Participants leave with actionable insights, new investment connections, and strategic knowledge to advance Indigenous-led initiatives. FNIF fosters models that move First Nations from project participants to equity owners and co-managers, promoting financial independence, infrastructure sovereignty, and long-term community prosperity.
Logistics
Event Hours: December 8–10, 2025
Venue: JW Marriott Parq, Vancouver, BC
Admission & Registration: Tickets available for Indigenous governments, economic corporations, institutional investors, and project proponents, with options for full-conference or gala-only attendance.
Participation & Contact
Those interested in attending, sponsoring, or participating in FNIF are encouraged to connect with the organizers ahead of time to confirm registration and explore partnership opportunities. The forum is ideal for Indigenous entrepreneurs, leaders, investors, and project developers seeking to engage with a national Indigenous economic network.
Final Thoughts
FNIF 2025 is more than an economic forum — it is a gathering of Indigenous visionaries, leaders, and innovators from across Canada and Indigenous nations, driving meaningful dialogue, sustainable investment, and long-term growth for communities nationwide. The forum provides a platform for Indigenous governments, corporations, and project leaders to connect with partners, access funding programs, and explore capital opportunities that support nation-driven initiatives.
Whether you are attending to learn, network, or present a project, FNIF offers direct contact with key stakeholders, investors, and program managers, enabling communities to secure investment, collaborate on infrastructure and energy projects, and implement programs that strengthen economic self-determination. By participating, delegates contribute to Indigenous-led economic development, enhance community capacity, and support projects that create lasting prosperity while respecting cultural values and local priorities.
FNIF 2025 reinforces the role of Indigenous nations as active decision-makers and co-owners in national initiatives, ensuring that funding, programs, and partnerships are aligned with community needs and long-term sustainability, ultimately empowering communities across Canada to thrive.
Visitors are encouraged to follow official event updates for programming changes, speaker announcements, and networking opportunities. Those interested in exploring more events and forums across Canada can visit our Indigenous Events page to discover upcoming conferences, markets, festivals, and community gatherings. Each event provides a meaningful way to support Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs, and cultural knowledge keepers.
