Indigenous Peoples as Co-Owners: Canada's Development Future Requires First Nations Leadership
Canada stands at a pivotal moment of immense opportunity in energy, minerals, and infrastructure development, with much of this activity occurring on Indigenous lands. Global instability has reshaped energy and commodity markets, creating unprecedented demand for the abundant resources this nation possesses. Trade relationships that once seemed permanent are fracturing, while wars in Ukraine and Iran have exposed the world's over-reliance on global dictators for energy access. Canada's allies are now competing aggressively to secure critical minerals, liquefied natural gas, and clean energy infrastructure.
A Nation-Building Imperative
Simultaneously, there is growing domestic appetite across political party lines to accelerate the "nation-building" projects that will define Canada's competitiveness for decades to come. Demand for what this country holds in abundance has never been higher, creating a unique convergence of international need and domestic ambition.
The reality is clear: if Canada wants to build and move major projects to market quickly and effectively, Indigenous Peoples must be at the table as genuine partners. Contrary to historical treatment that positioned First Nations as obstacles to development, Indigenous communities are increasingly asserting their roles as owners, investors, and decision-makers.
From Consultation to Co-Ownership
Indigenous Peoples are not waiting for permission to engage with this once-in-a-generation opportunity. Across the country, First Nations are stepping into leadership roles, securing equity ownership, shaping project governance, and setting the terms for how development should proceed on their traditional territories.
This represents a fundamental shift from consultation models to genuine co-ownership and decision-making authority. A survey of projects nationwide provides compelling evidence of this leadership transformation:
- In the Yukon, Selkirk First Nation initiated a process to secure full ownership of the Minto Mine, including equity stakes and royalties.
- In British Columbia, Tahltan First Nation concluded a consent agreement for the Eskay Mine, while Haisla First Nation is advancing Cedar LNG as a landmark Indigenous-led energy project.
- Nisga'a Nation has become a partner in the Ksi Lisims LNG development.
- In Ontario, Taykwa Tagamou Nation invested $20 million in Canada Nickel's Crawford project, securing a 7.9 percent equity stake and a seat on the board.
- In Manitoba, Norway House Cree Nation purchased the Minago mine outright.
A New Model of Partnership
These are not isolated examples but rather reflect a systemic transformation in how Indigenous Peoples engage with resource development. The expectation among Indigenous advocates is unequivocal: projects on traditional territories must include real ownership and governance structures, not merely employment targets or benefit-sharing agreements negotiated after key decisions have already been made.
This model has proven effective not only for Indigenous communities but for all stakeholders involved. Authentic Indigenous leadership de-risks major projects in ways that benefit communities, investors, governments, and natural resource proponents alike. When Indigenous Peoples hold equity, they become co-owners with a direct stake in project success, aligning interests for capital markets and creating clearer pathways for responsible development.
Bringing Critical Expertise to the Table
Indigenous leadership brings invaluable expertise that strengthens project outcomes. First Nations have watched over these lands since time immemorial, possessing deep ecological knowledge and long-term perspectives that enhance environmental stewardship and sustainable development practices.
This is the moment for bold Indigenous leadership to advance the terms of engagement for major projects across Canada. By recognizing First Nations as owners and investors rather than obstacles, Canada can unlock its full development potential while building more equitable and sustainable partnerships for future generations.
