Ontario’s Indigenous Energy Support Program (IESP) is opening powerful new doors for First Nations communities to lead in the clean energy transition. Through a suite of funding streams, the IESO (Independent Electricity System Operator) is offering millions in annual support for projects that span renewable energy, community energy planning, workforce development, and capacity building.
At First Nations Power Authority (FNPA), that IESO has some of the best programs in Canada, and every Ontario First Nations should take advantage of them —and FNPA is ready to help.
What is the IESP?
The Indigenous Energy Projects (IEP) stream offers up to $250,000 in funding, covering as much as 80% of costs for clean energy initiatives such as solar, wind, and biomass projects. This support empowers First Nations to move forward with renewable energy generation in your community.
This funding is distributed through four streams:
Community Energy Plan (CEP)
The Community Energy Plan (CEP) provides $135,000 in funding for a first-time energy plan, with an additional $75,000 available for updates after five years. These plans serve as a strategic foundation for long-term energy development.
At the FNPA, we’re Community Energy Plan experts. As a 100% Indigenous-owned and operated organization, we understand the unique experiences of First Nations communities. We’d welcome the opportunity to work with your nation to access this funding and to create a CEP. Let’s Talk.
Community Energy Champion
To support dedicated leadership within communities, the Community Energy Champion program offers up to $60,000 annually in salary for three years, along with an additional $5,000 per year for expenses. This allows First Nations to hire a community energy champion who can oversee and advance local energy projects.
Capacity Building Program
The Capacity Building Program focuses on education and workforce development, enabling communities to invest in training, staff development, and youth engagement. IESP Capacity Building stream also funds: equipment, energy skills and project training, engagement, and travel.
There are many ways to benefit from this funding. FNPA team member Harri Makivirta has successfully used this funding to train his community members in solar, geothermal, and biomass systems, as well as support energy and science education for youth. How would you use this funding?
Contact Us if you’d like to talk through a plan.
Seed Funding for Power Project RFQ’s
Lastly, Seed Funding for Power Project RFQs helps First Nations bring in consultants to prepare competitive applications for large-scale renewable energy projects. This includes early-stage work such as project design, technical assessments, and proposal development—laying the groundwork for long-term energy success.
This is what the FNPA does! We specialize as the” in between” First Nations and the government and power project developers. Lets chat about how we can help you with this proposal to fund the cost of power purchase agreement, RFP submission, or equity ownership agreements. FNPA will represent your interests in potential negotiations and work with your community for long-term success.
How FNPA Can Support Your Community
FNPA is uniquely positioned to become a trusted partner in Ontario’s clean energy landscape. With a deep understanding of Indigenous energy priorities and proven experience guiding successful applications across Canada, FNPA can:
- Help communities identify the right funding stream(s)
- Project development with our technical consultants and energy experts
- Support project scoping, budgeting, and documentation
- Assist with timeline management and application strategy
- Deliver capacity-building workshops to ensure long-term sustainability
Ready to Get Started?
The IESP funding window opens soon – and now is the time to prepare. If your First Nation is ready to take the next step toward energy sovereignty, FNPA is here to walk with you—every step of the way.