Micro-Grants for BC First Nations Data Projects

 
 

Data is power— it preserves our knowledge, shapes our decisions, and supports our sovereignty.

The BC Regional Information Governance Centre (BC RIGC) is here to support BC First Nations in building stronger, data-driven futures through scalable micro-grants and free expert guidance.

Whether you’re conducting surveys, improving membership lists, or building privacy and security frameworks, these grants are designed to meet your Nation’s unique needs.

With funding ranging from $5,000 to $25,000, and up to $50,000 for larger projects, the BC RIGC supports Nations to repatriate data, build infrastructure, and establish systems for long-term governance success.

This is more than just funding—it’s a partnership. Your Nation will gain access to free consulting services from Indigenous data experts. Together we’ll create tools, training, and strategies ensuring every dollar supports lasting change.

 

    • Funding recipients must be a BC First Nation government or representative organization

    • To support specific and achievable projects that enhance the quality, use, and accessibility of data in support of First Nations governance.

    • To share best practices with other First Nations in BC.

    • To advance use and uptake of the “build your own data centre” platform and other RIGC-developed tools, including:

      • Using RIGC-developed tools and templates to solve local problems.

      • Preparing datasets for upload into the data platform.

      • Training users for use of the data platform.

      • Undertaking user testing of the data platform.

    • Demonstrated alignment with funding purposes

    • Community impact

    • Achievability / feasibility

    • Replicability / lessons for other Nations

    • Strength of partnership with BC RIGC

    • Grants may range from $5,000 to $25,000

    • Contributions of up to $50,000 may be awarded for projects of significant complexity and/or involving multiple Nations

    • Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis 

    • Projects must be complete by March 1, 2026

    • Recipients must collaborate with the BC RIGC on a project plan and budget.

    • Recipients must collaborate with the BC RIGC to describe project outcomes and provide feedback to BC RIGC tools.

    • Funds cannot be transferred to another project or individual without prior approval.

    • Grantees may need to publicly acknowledge the funding source in materials or events.

    • Unspent money may need to be returned if the project is completed under budget or canceled.

 

Are you interested in securing a micro-grant and FREE expertise to meet your government’s data needs?

We are here to assist First Nations governments. 

Contact us at rigc@fns.bc.ca