Funding for Indigenous-led awareness and education projects for cleaner transportation and clean fuels

Transitioning to net zero

To meet Canada’s ambitious target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions 40–45 percent below 2005 levels by 2030 and reaching net zero by 2050, Canada’s economy will need to be powered by clean energy sources and driven by low- and zero-emission transportation. On the path to net-zero, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is committed to building meaningful partnerships and ensuring Indigenous peoples benefit from funding opportunities that can contribute to our shared fight against climate change. 

To help address challenges related to awareness, understanding, and confidence in zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), lower-carbon trucks, and clean fuels, NRCan is piloting a continuous intake call for proposals for Indigenous-led projects that address these barriers to adoption.

This call for proposals has a notional funding allocation of up to $4.5 million, and projects must be completed by no later than March 31, 2026.

Areas of focus

Zero-Emission Vehicles Awareness

Support for projects that aim to increase awareness, knowledge, and public confidence in:

• zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) in all vehicle classes
• low-emitting medium- and heavy-duty vehicles (trucks, delivery vans) including retrofits, repowers, and conversions

Clean Fuels Awareness

Support for projects that increase knowledge and understanding about the opportunities, benefits, and considerations related to adopting clean fuels in industrial operations, across the economy, and for consumers. Clean fuels can include:

• clean hydrogen and renewable natural gas
• biofuels such as cellulosic ethanol
• renewable diesel
• synthetic fuels and sustainable aviation fuels

Examples of project activities

• developing in-person or online education and/or awareness events, such as test drive opportunities
• developing curriculum or training material
• outreach and awareness campaigns
• creating web-based resources
• developing in-person professional training or industry-led skills training
• increasing knowledge of charging & refuelling and/or clean-fuel options and technologies

Who can apply

• an Indigenous community or governing body
• a First Nation (band or council under the Indian Act)
• a tribal council
• an Inuit organization
• another form of government or representative organization; or
• a for-profit or not-for-profit business or organization that clearly demonstrates ownership and controlling interests by Indigenous groups

The term “Indigenous” is understood to include Inuit, Métis, First Nations, or any combination thereof.

How to apply

You can request a full application package by email at ila-sda@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca. Please include the following information in your email request:

• name
• organization
• location
• preferred method of contact: phone, email, video call
• phone Number
• email

Interested, but want to discuss your idea with program staff before applying?

Our program staff can help you determine whether your project is a fit for this funding opportunity. Email us at ila-sda@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca to request the Project Idea Description Form to get started. Please be sure to include the contact information listed above.

We strive to respond to all email requests within 5 business days.

Funding applications will be reviewed on an ongoing, first-come, first-served basis over the course of this continuous intake pilot call for proposals.

Our team is looking forward to hearing from you!

Changing how we work

To make funding more accessible to Indigenous communities, we’re committed to changing the way we work and improving community access to federal funding and resources.

• Community-centred approach
• Flexible timelines
• Meet you where you’re at
• Remove barriers & increase access
• Engagement & dialogue

Need help? Contact us

For additional information, email ila-sda@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca

Need additional funding

Find out more about federal Indigenous Climate Funding programs.