Recap of the NCN News Release Regarding the Investment
On February 11, 2025, Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation (NCN) announced its strategic investment of $10 million in the latest $650 million bond issuance by First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA), their 12th debenture. This significant financial commitment was made through the Nisichawayasihk Trust Fund and underscores NCN’s dedication to advancing infrastructure, housing, and economic development priorities within First Nations communities.
FNFA, a non-profit organization established under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act, provides First Nation governments across Canada with access to preferred rate, long-term, debt financing from the international capital markets to finance their community priorities. By participating in FNFA’s bond program, NCN joins numerous other institutional investors in leveraging collective financial strength to secure favorable financing terms for essential community projects.
“Investing in FNFA’s bond program aligns with our long-term vision of self-sufficiency and sustainable growth,” said Chief Angela Levasseur of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. “This investment will enable us to undertake critical projects that enhance the quality of life for our members and promote economic prosperity. Being able to assist in funding Indigenous-led projects across Canada demonstrates our solidarity with all First Nation communities in Canada.”
FNFA bonds are backed by stable and predictable own-source revenues of participating First Nations, which include income from revenue-sharing agreements, leases, royalties, and business operations. This structure has garnered widespread acceptance from both capital markets and First Nation communities.
“We are thrilled to welcome Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation as the first Indigenous Community investor in our debenture (bond) program.” said Ernie Daniels, President and CEO of FNFA. “Their participation not only reflects confidence in our financial model but also contributes to the collective economic empowerment of First Nations across Canada. We welcome inquiries from other Indigenous controlled entities to create an Indigenous circular economy in future offerings.”
Since its inaugural bond issuance in 2014, FNFA has successfully raised over $3 billion in financing for First Nations governments generating an estimate of 30,000 jobs and $6.5 billion to the national economic output while supporting a wide range of projects from public infrastructure and housing to green energy initiatives.
The Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation’s investment in the FNFA bond program marks a pivotal step toward realizing its mutual strategic goals and reaffirms its commitment to building a prosperous and self-reliant future for its community.
About Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation
The Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation is a vibrant First Nation community located in Nelson House, Manitoba. Committed to the well-being and prosperity of its members, NCN actively pursues initiatives that promote economic development, cultural preservation, and self-governance.
About First Nations Finance Authority
FNFA is a self-sufficient, non-profit organization that provides access to long-term financing and at preferable interest rates to First Nation governments and investment and advisory services to Indigenous groups and organizations.
Media Contact:
Chief Angela Levasseur
[email protected]
204-670-3553
