Frequently Asked Questions

What is the New Relationship?

The New Relationship is a vision that was jointly agreed to in the Spring of 2005 by the First Nations Summit, the BC Assembly of First Nations, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, and the Province of BC. That vision describes a “new government-to-government relationship based on respect, recognition and accommodation of Aboriginal title and rights.” Read the full New Relationship document.

Where does the $100 million come in?

An initial Fund of $100 million was set aside in early 2006 to help First Nations realize the vision of a new relationship. The money is managed by an independent, non-profit organization specifically created for that purpose: the New Relationship Trust Corporation. The money is the first ‘deposit’ to the Trust. It is not necessarily the only one – there may be subsequent funding; however, there are currently no agreements for further funding.

What is the New Relationship Trust Corporation?

The NRT is a not-for-profit organization that was created in the Spring of 2006 as a response to the New Relationship vision. The Trust is guided by a seven-member Board of Directors and operates independently of government.

What is the goal of the New Relationship Trust Corporation?

The goal is to help First Nations with their capacity building needs.

What does that mean “capacity building”?

Capacity included the tools, training, and resources First Nations need to participate in land and resource management and planning processes, and to develop social, cultural and economic programs in their communities.

How will the money be used?

Of the $100 million, just over $20 million will be used to support activities and programs over the next three years in five priority areas: education, capacity, culture & language, youth & elders, and economic development. The remaining $80 million will be invested to allow the fund top continue to grow. Visit the Programs area of the site to find out more about how each priority area will be supported.

How were these programs/ priorities determined?

Priorities for funding were determined according to the feedback received from BC First Nation communities during a province-wide ‘regional engagement process’ held in summer and fall of 2006.

Who participated in the Regional Engagement Process?

The REP was open for participation to all First Nation community members, leaders and those with a vested interest in the well-being of BC’s First Nations. During the REP, we held 11 regional meetings throughout the province. Meetings were attended by several hundred community members, virtually all of whom completed a feedback survey. Others provided comments via fax, phone, or an on-line version of the survey. Click here for results of the Regional Engagement Process.

Who is eligible for funding?

Funding eligibility depends on the specific program. Some funds are available to First Nation individuals (such as the Education Loan Fund), other funding will be available to communities, and some is directed at First Nation service organizations. Check the Program area of this web site frequently for details about funding eligibility and application guidelines.

Who is on the current Board of Directors of the NRT?

Visit the Team page to find out!

How are board members selected?

Of the seven member board, one each are appointed directly by the First Nations Summit, the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, and the BC Assembly of First Nations. Two are appointed by the Province on BC, and two by the First Nations Leadership Council of BC.

How long is the term of the current Board?

The current Board of Directors will serve a two year term, from November 2006 to November 2008.