Indigenous Grant Opportunities for Farmers, Communities & Businesses

At AgroCertify, we work closely with agricultural companies across North America to navigate the regulatory world — from product registrations to organic certifications and beyond. Along the way, we often come across great funding programs that we think more people should know about.

If you’re an Indigenous farmer, part of a First Nations community, or running an Indigenous-led agribusiness, there are real opportunities to access funding that supports agriculture, food security, climate action, and sustainable development.

Here’s a summary of some currently open or upcoming programs. Feel free to explore and share. We’re not affiliated with these grants, but we’re happy to point you in the right direction if you’re looking for help on the regulatory or technical side.

Opportunities for Indigenous Farmers

These programs directly support on-the-ground farmers looking to improve practices or expand operations.

Red River Métis Climate Action Program (Manitoba)

For: Métis farmers in Manitoba
Focus: Climate-smart practices such as improving soil health or reducing emissions
Status: Open

Alberta Sustainable CAP Water Program

For: Alberta farmers
Focus: Irrigation upgrades, water conservation, and improved on-farm water systems
Status: Open

Alberta Sustainable CAP On-Farm Value-Added Program

For: Alberta farmers adding value to their products on-farm (e.g., drying, milling, packaging)
Status: Open

Opportunities for Indigenous Communities & Non-Profits

If you’re working on community food projects, nonprofit programs, or educational initiatives — these streams might be relevant.

Agridiversity Program (Canada-Wide)

For: Indigenous non-profits, co-ops, and academic partners
Focus: Education, training, and supporting underrepresented groups in agriculture
Funding: Up to $1 million total over 5 years

Indigenous Food Security and Sovereignty Program (BC)

For: First Nation communities in British Columbia
Focus: Traditional food systems, local food infrastructure
Funding: Up to $150,000 for communities
Status: Closed May 2025 – reopening expected

CIRNAC Harvester Support Grant (Canada-Wide)

For: First Nations and Inuit communities
Focus: Traditional harvesting and access to country foods
Status: Open

First Nations Agriculture & Finance Council – Community Programs (Ontario)

For: Indigenous communities and councils
Focus: Food security, land use planning, and agricultural development
Status: Open

Opportunities for Indigenous-Led Businesses

Several grants are geared toward helping Indigenous agri-businesses expand, innovate, and grow.

Alberta Sustainable CAP Value-Added Program

For: Indigenous businesses developing food, fertilizer, or ag-based products
Focus: Processing, packaging, or technology development
Funding: Up to $100,000

Métis Assistance Program (MAP) – Saskatchewan