For Immediate Release: July 15, 2026
Ottawa, Ontario – First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA) says its globally recognized model is delivering significant economic impacts across Canada, with FNFA bond issuances contributing an estimated $12.08 billion to the economy. Through access to affordable capital, FNFA has financed First Nations to build schools, safe and affordable housing, roads, water systems, clean energy investments, and critical infrastructure projects.
“FNFA gives First Nations the tools to turn long-term vision into nation-building,” said Chief Derek Epp, Ch’íyáqtel First Nation, British Columbia, and FNFA Board Chair. “From essential infrastructure and generational economic opportunities to billions in economic activity, this growth reflects the resilience, leadership, and strength of First Nations and their expanding role in shaping Canada’s future.”
FNFA President and CEO Ernie Daniels said the organization’s success demonstrates the growing demand by investors for sustainable bonds. “At a time when Canada is focused on building major projects, international investment, and competitiveness, FNFA is delivering on all three,” said Daniels. “Our model attracts private capital, puts it to work in communities, and turns investment into infrastructure, jobs, and long-term prosperity.”
Daniels pointed to transformative projects such as Haisla Nation’s majority equity ownership in Cedar LNG, a floating LNG facility being developed within Haisla Nation’s traditional territory in British Columbia. FNFA issued its first 30-year bond to support the project and was recognized with Environmental Finance’s Sustainability Bond of the Year – agency award for the issuance.
Since 2014, FNFA has provided $5.69 billion in affordable financing, including $1.3 billion in the past quarter alone. That investment has generated an estimated $12.08 billion in economic activity and supported the creation of approximately 52,000 jobs across Canada. With investors demonstrating heightened awareness regarding the destination and impact of their investments, demand for FNFA bonds continues to strengthen with issuances being consistently oversubscribed among a global and domestic investor base.
As FNFA marks the 20th anniversary of the First Nations Fiscal Management Act (2005), Daniels said the organization stands as proof of what is possible when First Nations have access to the financial tools needed to pursue priorities. “For two decades, the Act has helped unlock the economic power and self-determination of First Nations. What started as a bold vision to improve access to capital has become a globally recognized model that shows First Nations are not only participating in Canada’s economy, they are helping lead it.”
FNFA’s continued growth highlights the role Indigenous financial institutions can play in unlocking private capital, advancing major projects, and generating lasting economic benefits for First Nations and Canada.
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About FNFA
FNFA is a 100 per cent First Nations-led non-profit, financial services corporation mandated under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act (2005) providing cost-effective financing, investment management, and capital advisory services to First Nations governments in Canada. FNFA is self-sufficient and raises all financing through the capital markets.
Media Contact:
Jennifer David, FNFA
Director of Communications and Marketing
Email: jdavid@fnfa.ca