Indigenous Cannabis Business Fund — Community Planning & Engagement

For First Nations communities in British Columbia exploring opportunities in the regulated cannabis sector, early-stage education and community dialogue can be just as important as capital. The Indigenous Cannabis Business Fund — Community Planning & Engagement stream is designed to support that foundational work, helping communities and Indigenous entrepreneurs build shared understanding around cannabis laws, regulations, and potential economic pathways before moving into business development.

Delivered by the New Relationship Trust, this funding stream focuses on on-reserve community planning activities. It can help cover the costs of organizing workshops, information sessions, and engagement initiatives that bring leadership, members, and prospective entrepreneurs together to learn about how the regulated cannabis industry works in B.C. Rather than funding a business launch, the emphasis is on informed decision-making, community readiness, and navigating a complex regulatory environment in a way that aligns with local priorities and values. Funding support is generally around up to $10,000 and is provided as a non-repayable contribution.

This stream fits within the broader BC Indigenous Cannabis Business Fund, which aims to increase Indigenous-led participation across the cannabis value chain while promoting health, safety, and sustainable economic growth. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis while funding remains available. For communities considering whether cannabis-related development makes sense locally, learning more about how this planning-focused support works is a valuable next step.