More than 90 First Nation communities and Aboriginal organizations received support this year to enhance skills training and economic development.

The New Relationship Fund provided $6.3 million for projects such as:

• Aboriginal business start-ups and expansions

• Regional economic coordinators

• Technical training for community staff about forestry, mining and other sectors

• Assistance in securing financing for business development activities.

For example, the Whitesand First Nation used its funding to develop a business plan to effectively engage in energy, mining and forestry initiatives. This is leading to meaningful and sustainable employment through the creation of a sawmill, pellet facility and cogeneration plant. The community is now an active participant in new forestry tenure and management initiatives and has acquired a road maintenance contract.