The Benefits of Closing the Gap Closing the First Nations infrastructure gap is not an Indigenous issue — it’s a Canadian issue.
The Benefits of Closing the Gap – Part 1
In November 2024, the Assembly of First Nations released Benefits for All Canadians (Part 1), developed in partnership with the Conference Board of Canada. The report outlined how closing the First Nations infrastructure gap could generate substantial economic returns for Canada, including $635 billion in economic output and nearly 2.4 million jobs over seven years (2023–2030).
Explore the findings in the report here: Benefits for All Canadians (Part 1): Economic Impact of Closing the Infrastructure Gap
The Benefits of Closing the Gap – Part 2
In May 2025, Part 2 built on that foundation by looking beyond the numbers. It showed how investments in infrastructure, such as housing, water systems, schools, and broadband, contribute to better health outcomes, cultural preservation, community well-being, and climate resilience. These are long-term socio-economic benefits that extend beyond immediate financial returns.
Together, the Part 1 and Part 2 reports provide a clearer understanding of the broader impacts of infrastructure investment in First Nations communities. Explore the benefits in the report here: Benefits for All Canadians (Part 2): Long-term Socio-economic Impacts of Closing the Infrastructure Gap by 2030.
The Benefits of Closing the Gap The Benefits for All Canadians report tells a powerful story. Click through the benefits below to see what these investments would generate over the next seven years.
Tax Revenue Generation
Each dollar invested in First Nations infrastructure yields $0.25 in tax revenues, benefiting all levels of government.
Government Revenue Enhancement
Investments are projected to boost federal revenues by $44.2 billion, provincial and territorial revenues by $29.7 billion, and local revenues by $12.9 billion.
Economic Productivity and Workforce Participation
Every dollar invested is projected to add $1.82 to Canada’s total economic output.
Direct Labour Income for First Nations
First Nations are expected to receive $18.2 billion in labour income from these infrastructure projects.
Total Labour Income Generation
Over seven years, infrastructure investments are anticipated to generate $202.7 billion in labour income nationwide.
Economic Output Multiplier
Every dollar invested is projected to add $1.82 to Canada’s total economic output.
GDP Growth and G7 Standing
An estimated $308.9 billion increase in GDP could elevate Canada from last to first among G7 countries in average annual GDP per capita growth between 2023 and 2030.
Job Creation
Approximately 2.4 million full-time jobs, averaging 338,300 jobs annually, are expected to be created through these investments.
Employment Opportunities for First Nations
First Nations individuals are projected to hold 9% of the newly created jobs, enhancing economic opportunities within their communities.
Testimonial
Bell Canada
Bell Canada fully supports the Assembly of First Nations’ goal of closing the digital infrastructure gap. Together with the AFN, we call upon all levels of government to support continued investment in critical network connectivity to First Nation communities.
Robert Malcolmson, EVP & Chief Legal and Regulatory Officer, BCE