(May 7, 2025 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa) – Today, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak called on the new federal government to accelerate the creation of a First Nations-led Procurement Authority during an opening address at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association’s (NACCA) Prosperity Forum in Ottawa.
“In support of economic reconciliation, we call on the new government to transfer responsibility for determining federal procurement eligibility to the First Nation Procurement Authority we’ve proposed in partnership with NACCA and other national organizations,” said National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. “If implemented properly, the multi-billion-dollar First Nations procurement program can significantly benefit the Canadian economy. The new government has an opportunity to start fresh and take immediate action by establishing a First Nation-led agency, one that will drive transformative policy shift, support First Nation businesses, and strengthen local economies.”
One year ago, national media reported an increase in businesses identifying as Indigenous on the federal registry for government contracts. In response, the Auditor General has initiated a review of the federal First Nation procurement program amid rising concerns about front companies.
Since 2021, the AFN has worked with NACCA and other national organizations to develop a business case for an Indigenous-led procurement organization to address systemic barriers. In 2023, the First Nations-in-Assembly passed a resolution in support of the creation of a dedicated First Nations Procurement Authority.
“When we talk about issues with federal procurement, we must begin with Canada’s vague standards regarding First Nation identity,” added National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “First Nations must lead the authentication and certification processes for procurement, based on criteria we define. To be recognized, the entrepreneur must be from a First Nation— and known by the community as one of their own. Without a true connection to the community, there is no benefit to the community.”
During the federal election, the AFN held a series of forums that brought together federal party leaders and Chiefs from across Canada. As part of this series, the AFN shared a priorities document with each party leader, titled Prosperity for All. The document highlights key priorities, including advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, implementing the Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, and upholding the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.
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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.
For more information, please contact:
Cherish Francis
Press Secretary
National Chief’s Office
(343) 630-1372 (mobile)
[email protected]
Genna Benson
Director of Communications
Assembly of First Nations
[email protected]
604-340-3117 (mobile)