The Ontario government is putting $171,926 into two energy projects based in Neyaashiinigmiing. These initiatives are aimed at creating local jobs and improving energy program access for First Nations communities.
This funding comes through the Independent Electricity System Operator’s Indigenous Energy Support Program. It backs community-driven efforts to build a more competitive, resilient, and self-sufficient province. Part of the money will be used to hire a full-time data manager and enhance Boodawewin, a web app that connects First Nations consumers with energy efficiency programs. The updates will make it easier to use and improve access to crucial housing and energy information, which is essential for tackling energy poverty in these communities.
The rest of the funds will support Ishkoday in collaboration with Home Inspectors Group to train 12 to 15 new Indigenous energy auditors. This initiative focuses on reaching students from less accessible areas of Ontario, creating new job opportunities while offering First Nations households better access to audit services that respect their culture, needed for entering energy programs. It highlights how important community involvement is for the future of this sector, emphasizing that Indigenous communities play a key role in Ontario’s energy landscape.
“Indigenous communities have a vital role to play in Ontario’s energy future,” said Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Paul Vickers. “This investment will help empower community members, and ensure Indigenous voices are heard in shaping the energy systems that affect their communities and Ontario as a whole.”
This investment coincides with the opening of applications for the 2026 intake of the Indigenous Energy Support Program. The provincially managed program allocates funding across four main areas: Capacity Building, Economic Development, Energy Resiliency and Monitoring, along with a new Remote Projects Development stream aimed at helping remote communities transition away from diesel power generation.
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