The Saskatchewan government has pushed back the application deadline for its First Nations and Métis Community Partnership Projects Fund, giving local organizations a few extra days to get their applications in.
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The new deadline is Nov. 6, according to a government release issued Nov. 4. The fund supports partnerships with First Nations and Métis communities in four priority areas: safe communities, strong families, student achievement and economic growth.
Successful applicants can receive up to $45,000, or 40 per cent of eligible project costs, whichever is less.
For organizations in and around Lloydminster — including those connected to Onion Lake Cree Nation, which shares a long-standing partnership with the city — the extension offers a last window to line up funding for projects already in the works heading into the new year.
“It is important to get these dollars into community to make a difference,” said Eric Schmalz, minister responsible for First Nations, Métis and northern affairs.
“I encourage organizations to look at their upcoming projects and the grants’ criteria. Organizations that aren’t sure if they are eligible should contact the Ministry of Government Relations for more information.”
Two more funds stay open indefinitely
Beyond the partnership fund, the province is also encouraging groups to look at two other streams that remain open on a rolling basis until all available money is allocated.
The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls+ Community Response Fund offers up to $40,000 per project for initiatives that prevent violence and improve safety for Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit+ people and their families. Half of the $800,000 pool comes from Women and Gender Equality Canada, and projects approved through this stream must wrap up by March 31, 2027.
The First Nations and Métis Sponsorships fund backs public events built around reconciliation and cultural understanding — things like education and employment initiatives, cultural celebrations, or events honouring veterans and Elders.
It’s a similar model to the province’s recent push to fund veterans service clubs, and it follows other recent rounds of support flowing to local groups, including a community initiatives grant that benefited Lloydminster organizations in past years.
How to Apply
Organizations with questions about eligibility, or that need help preparing a submission, can contact the First Nations and Métis Relations unit by emailing FN*************@****sk.ca, or visit saskatchewan.ca for full application guidelines.
With the partnership fund deadline just days away, the ministry is urging interested groups not to wait before reaching out.
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