Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Accelerator Program
Deadline Details
Proposals will be accepted on a rolling basis until all funding is allocated.
Funder Organization Type
- BC Provincial Government
The Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Accelerator Program enables Indigenous communities to unlock the economic, social and environmental benefits of their participation in BC’s forest sector with partners across BC, through specific project support. These projects focus on the commercialization and scale-up of businesses working in BC's forest bioeconomy, including in value-added products, residual wood, and other aspects of the circular economy. The Accelerator program is guided by the goals, principles, and objectives of the Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Framework, which was developed through collaboration and engagement with numerous First Nations and Indigenous organizations.
Eligible Community
Communities must fall into one of the following categories to qualify as eligible to receive funding:
• a First Nation “band” as defined by the Indian Act (Canada):
• a First Nation governing body, representing exclusively one or more First Nations; or
• a First Nation enterprise (e.g. a non-governing body such as an economic development arm of a First Nation) with the support of the Nation
Required Community Contribution
Community contribution required (please see program website)
Generally, up to 50% of a project can be funded. Many community partners provide a 50% investment in the overall cost of their project. Please note that the community's contribution can come from another funding source.
Funding Stacking Restrictions
Yes
unrestricted
Professional Input Required
No
Specific Eligibility Requirements
The applicant must be based in BC, and must be a First Nation, or a First Nation-owned entity such as an economic development corporation or a business. Individuals are also welcome to apply, with the support of their Nation.
Other Eligible Applicants
Indigenous Economic AgenciesIndigenous-owned Businesses
Indigenous Organizations
Please reach out to us to see if your project is eligible, at IBIO.Mail@gov.bc.ca
Type of Funding
- Grant
- Capital
- Support (e.g. consulting management)
Range of Funding Available per Project
- From $100 000 to $1 000 000
Description of Funding
Ranges of past projects are from $100,000 to $400,000. The amount of funding available will depend on the type of project being pursued and the unique requirements of each project. Funding is up to 50% of a project's total costs, with the remaining project costs being sourced from the applicant or its other funding sources.
Percentage of Project Funded
50%Generally, up to 50% of a project can be funded. Many community partners provide a 50% investment in the overall cost of their project. Please note that the community's contribution can come from another funding source. Contact IBIO.Mail@gov.bc.ca to discuss this and any aspects of your possible project.
Eligible Costs
EngineeringDesign
Planning
Capital Costs
Equipment/Material Purchase
Project Management
Research and Development
For more information, get in touch with our program staff at IBIO.Mail@gov.bc.ca
Reporting Requirements
Progress reports and final reports
Expected Timeframe for Funding Decision
3 monthsExpect a response right away. Program staff are open to conversations about your application at any point. A funding decision can take three months, but they are often made sooner than that.
We welcome conversations about all possible ideas, and are happy to discuss your project at any stage, even before you have a firm application. Please do not hesitate to contact us to learn more about possible funding.
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/forestry/supporting-innovation/ifbp