On July 30, 2026, the Ontario government announced that 148 projects will receive funding through the 2025 intake of the Indigenous Energy Support Program (IESP). As part of its plan to protect Ontario, the government is investing $25 million through the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) to support Indigenous-led energy initiatives that strengthen community participation in Ontario's growing energy sector. This investment advances Indigenous leadership, supports community-driven energy projects and helps ensure Ontario has the affordable, secure, clean and reliable electricity needed to build a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy.
"Ontario needs more power, and having strong partnerships with Indigenous communities is fundamental to meeting growing demand while advancing meaningful economic reconciliation" said Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries. "That's why we're expanding our investment in the Indigenous Energy Support Program, supporting Indigenous communities across the province with energy planning, infrastructure development and valuable skills development opportunities to help deliver reliable power for generations ahead."
Funding is provided across three Areas of Funding (AOF):
- Capacity Building to support education and awareness initiatives, energy skills-building, as well as the hiring of a Community Energy Champion (CEC) to leverage energy opportunities
- Economic Development to support equitable access to project partnerships and energy infrastructure development opportunities.
- The IESO expanded the Economic Development AOF to include an enhanced Remote Projects Development stream, designed to advance diesel reduction and energy transition objectives in nine identified off-grid First Nation communities.
- Energy Resiliency and Monitoring to support the development and updating of community energy plans and initiatives.
Applications for 2026 funding are now open, with more information available here. The deadline to apply is October 2, 2026.
"From planning and innovation to equity partnerships in major projects - Indigenous communities remain key drivers of Ontario's energy future," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships. "Today's expanded investments for community-led energy planning, local capacity building and meaningful opportunities are ensuring Indigenous communities share in the benefits of Ontario's growing and increasingly integrated energy sector, for generations to come."
The IESP is part of Energy for Generations, the government's long-term plan to deliver reliable, affordable and secure energy to power Ontario's future. Backed by record investments in energy infrastructure, our integrated approach is giving Indigenous communities, municipalities, businesses and industry partners the confidence to invest, grow and build here in Ontario. With a clear path forward, the plan is not only meeting the demands of today, but it is protecting jobs, supporting workers and powering economic growth for generations to come.
Quick Facts
- The Ontario government increased the IESO's funding envelope for the IESP by $10 million in 2025, bringing the total available funding to $25 million annually for Indigenous communities and organizations.
- The enhanced IESP also marks a major step forward in delivering on the government's off-diesel strategy, with dedicated funding for identified remote First Nation communities to help these communities transition away from diesel-powered generation.
- Since the inception of the Indigenous Energy Support Programs in 2009, the IESO has awarded approximately $107.50 million in funding to 185 Indigenous communities and organizations.
Quotes
"The success behind the Indigenous Energy Support Program can be attributed to the people and communities working together to strengthen partnerships, increase energy capacity, and advance new projects. In partnership with Indigenous communities, Ontario is building the energy capacity needed to meet local needs and power the province."
- Will Bouma
Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation
"Economic reconciliation and meaningful partnership with Indigenous communities is only possible when all parties can participate equitably. Through the Indigenous Energy Support Program, last year 85 Indigenous communities and organizations received $25 million in funding to support that goal. This year's funding window presents another opportunity to continue working together to build a better and more prosperous future for Ontario."
- Lesley Gallinger
President and CEO, Independent Electricity System Operator
"This investment recognizes the important role that Indigenous Nations play in shaping Ontario's energy future. Through initiatives like these, MSIFN is building the capacity, expertise, and partnerships needed to create lasting economic opportunities for our community while supporting the province's broader energy transition."
- Chief Kelly LaRocca
Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation
