Overview
The Indigenous Peoples Assistance Facility (IPAF) is a national program designed to support Indigenous communities across the country in achieving sustainable development, cultural preservation, and economic selfreliance. Established in 2015, the facility provides financial assistance, technical expertise, and capacitybuilding resources to First Nations, Inuit, and Mtis peoples.
IPAF works in partnership with federal, provincial, and territorial governments, nongovernmental organizations, and private sector entities to ensure that funding aligns with communityidentified priorities. The core mission is to empower Indigenous peoples to control their own development pathways while respecting traditional knowledge and governance structures.
Key Services
- Grant Funding: Competitive grants for infrastructure, health, education, and cultural projects.
- Technical Assistance: Expert advisors in engineering, environmental management, and business planning.
- Capacity Building: Workshops, webinars, and mentorship programs for community leaders.
- Research Support: Funding for communitybased research that links traditional knowledge with modern science.
- Emergency Relief: Rapid response funds for natural disasters or sudden economic shocks.
Tip: Many grants require a detailed project plan and a community endorsement. Start early to gather the necessary documentation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for IPAF assistance, applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
- Be a recognized Indigenous community or organization (First Nation, Inuit, Mtis, or a registered Indigenous nonprofit).
- Demonstrate that the proposed project aligns with the communitys strategic plan or cultural objectives.
- Provide evidence of financial transparency and accountability.
- Show that the project will have a measurable positive impact on social, economic, or environmental outcomes.
Specific programs may have additional criteria, such as age limits for youth initiatives or geographic restrictions for remotearea projects.
How to Apply
Applying for assistance through IPAF follows a straightforward, threestep process:
1. PreApplication Consultation
Contact the IPAF regional office for an initial conversation. This free consultation helps you clarify eligibility, identify the most suitable funding stream, and understand documentation requirements.
2. Submit a Complete Application
Applications are submitted online through the IPAF portal. Required components typically include:
- Cover letter signed by the community chief, council, or authorized representative.
- Project description (objectives, timeline, budget).
- Community endorsement (resolution or letter of support).
- Financial statements or proof of fiscal capacity.
- Any required supplemental forms (environmental assessments, risk management plans).
All documents must be uploaded in PDF format. The portal will confirm receipt and generate a tracking number.
3. Review and Decision
The IPAF review committee evaluates applications on four pillars: community benefit, sustainability, cultural relevance, and fiscal responsibility. Most decisions are communicated within 60 days of submission. Successful applicants receive a funding agreement outlining reporting requirements and milestones.
For detailed timelines, visit the Apply Now page.
Partner Organizations
IPAF collaborates with a broad network of partners to extend its reach and expertise:
- Indigenous Services Canada (ISC): Cofunding for health and education initiatives.
- National Aboriginal Capital Corporations (NACC): Business development and loan programs.
- Environmental NGOs: Support for climateresilient infrastructure.
- Universities and Research Institutes: Joint research projects that honor Indigenous methodologies.
- Private Sector: Skilltraining partnerships and technology transfer agreements.
Partner organizations often provide additional resources, such as inkind services, mentorship, or market access.
Contact Information
For general inquiries, program details, or to schedule a consultation, use the contact options below:
- Phone: 1800555IPAF (4723)
- Email: info@ipaf.gov
- Online Form: Contact Form
- Regional Offices: Links to offices in the Atlantic, Central, Prairie, and Pacific regions are available on the Regional Offices page.
Office hours are MondayFriday, 9am5pm local time. Emergency relief requests are handled 24/7 through the dedicated hotline.
