APF: Education and Relationship-Building Stream

The Education and Relationship-Building Stream of the Aboriginal Participation Fund (APF) provides funding for Aboriginal communities and organizations in Ontario to engage in training, outreach, and relationship-building activities related to mineral exploration and development.

Government of Ontario

Overview of the APF: Education and Relationship-Building Stream program:

The Education and Relationship-Building Stream is part of the Aboriginal Participation Fund (APF) administered by Ontario’s Ministry of Energy, Northern Development and Mines. This stream aims to increase Indigenous knowledge of the mining sector and improve relationships among Aboriginal communities, government, and industry. Funding is intended to support the design and delivery of these projects, including administrative costs, travel, facilitation, professional expertise, meeting logistics, and materials. While single-community projects are welcome, multi-community and joint applications (with support through Band Council Resolutions) are also eligible.

Benefits of the APF: Education and Relationship-Building Stream program:

Strengthens community knowledge of mineral development and Ontarios Mining Act
Supports internal capacity building for future consultation and development opportunities
Enables Aboriginal communities to engage proactively with industry and government
Promotes cross-community collaboration on shared territories or exploration activity
Funds travel, training, professional support, and meetings directly tied to mining-related education
Encourages long-term relationship-building and issues management frameworks

Eligibility criteria of the APF: Education and Relationship-Building Stream program:

Eligibility Requirements:
Eligible Applicants:
- First Nations, Metis communities, and Aboriginal organizations in Ontario
- Must be located in areas of high mineral exploration or development activity
Application Types:
- Single applicants (individual communities)
- Joint applicants, including Tribal Councils or regional Aboriginal organizations
- Must include Band Council Resolutions from each represented community
Eligible Expenses Include:
- Wages and MERCs for project staff
- Conference and workshop fees, travel, and accommodation
- Honoraria for Elders or cultural knowledge holders
- Facilitators, consultants, and technical professionals
- Meeting logistics (venue, food, materials)
- Project-related office equipment or rentals
- Administrative and communication costs (postage, phones, supplies)