February 22, 2021

The First Peoples’ Cultural Council received $4 million in Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program (CERIP) funding to support Indigenous-led heritage infrastructure projects. This is the first-ever Indigenous Cultural Heritage Infrastructure Grant from FPCC for B.C. First Nations.

FPCC received 104 applications for construction-ready projects in response to this new heritage funding opportunity, with requests totalling $45.7 million. Of these applicants, 11 projects were selected to receive funding over a three-year period with project completion by March 2023. FPCC will also provide recipients with ongoing support for project management, the creation of work plans and knowledge transfer.

To view the News Release, Media Backgrounder and full list of grant recipients click on the link below.

FPCC News Release – Feb 22, 2021

“Indigenous languages, art and cultures are crucial contributors to the social, environmental, spiritual and economic health of all people. We are thrilled the Province understands the critical nature of these contributions and are grateful to FPCC for all the work they do to support Indigenous Peoples.” – Jisgang Nika Collison, Haida Gwaii Museum at Kay Llnagaay Executive Director.

“Sharing our history and culture comes at a big cost. Financial support, like the Indigenous Cultural Heritage Infrastructure Grant we have received from the First Peoples’ Cultural Council and the Government of B.C., is necessary to move forward with the next phase of our centre’s growth to construct a traditional Pit House and a revitalized interpretive program that includes rich cultural and historical stories, conservation and connection to the land.” – Chief Clarence Louie, Osoyoos Indian Band, Chair of the Nk’Mip Desert Heritage Society.

Media images for Nk’Mip desert Cultural Centre.

Media images for Saving Things House: Haida Gwaii Museum at Kay Llnagaay.