First Nations Major Projects Coalition

The First Nations Major Project Coalition’s (FNMPC) Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Podlasly as the Chief Executive Officer. Mark is uniquely positioned to lead the FNMPC during this time of transition and through the passing of Niilo Edwards.  As co-founder, Mark has been integral to the FNMPC’s development since its inception, shaping and implementing our vision, priorities, and strategies. Notably, he has been instrumental in establishing the flagship event, the FNMPC’s Annual Conference and our policy and thought leadership.   Mark is a proud member of the Nlaka'pamux Nation, a graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, and an Action Canada Fellow. He serves on CIBC and Hydro One boards and has been FNMPC’s Chief Sustainability Officer until now. He has championed and prioritized corporate governance, First Nations economic development, and Indigenous financing through FNMPC’s work in his networks in Canada and worldwide.   Under Mark's guidance as CEO, the FNMPC will continue to uphold its commitment to our member First Nations, advancing reconciliation and promoting Indigenous ownership in major projects.   Please join us in welcoming Mark Podlasly as our CEO and honouring Niilo Edwards's legacy as we move forward, stronger together.

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of FNMPC’s Chief Executive Officer, Niilo Edwards, ICD.D, after a sudden and unexpected turn in his fight against cancer. Niilo was not only a leader but a visionary. As the first Executive Director and CEO of FNMPC, he took on the challenge with an unwavering commitment to economic inclusion, shaping the organization into what it is today: a driving force for First Nations participation in major projects across Canada. Niilo believed sincerely in the power of partnerships rooted in respect, trust, and shared prosperity—principles that will continue to guide us as we move forward. “We are heartbroken by the loss of Niilo, who is like family to us here at the FNMPC. As a founding member of the FNMPC, his legacy and vision will continue to inspire and guide us as we move forward. Niilo’s unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have been instrumental in advancing the FNMPC to where we are today. His commitment to economic inclusion and supporting First Nations to lead in meaningful partnerships has set a standard for us all. While there may be some adjustments as we navigate this difficult time, the Coalition will continue to serve its members while we mourn Niilo.” - Executive Chair Sharleen Gale. To honour Niilo’s memory, donations can be made to the Organ Donation and Transplant Research Foundation of BC at www.odtrf.org. We thank our members, partners, and supporters for your understanding, kindness, and grace during this difficult time. Niilo’s legacy will forever inspire our path forward. As Niilo would say, “We are Stronger Together".

Only 5 weeks left for Early Bird Registration!   Don’t miss this opportunity to join 1,600+ finance, industry, government and Indigenous-owned corporation experts in Toronto on April 27-29 for FNMPC’s 8th Annual Conference, Valuing Reconciliation in Global Markets.   Learn how the integration of Indigenous principles in business is a strategic advantage that benefits Indigenous and commercial interests in a highly competitive global market.   Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this premier event. Register today at: fnmpc.ca/conference #IndigenousPartnership #EconomicReconciliation #FNMPC2025 #GlobalMarkets #SustainableBusiness

“As the finance sector continues to evolve in an increasingly values-driven world the integration of partnerships with Indigenous nations presents a unique opportunity to unlock new sources of capital enhance regulatory alignment and ensure long-term business success.” – Jaimie Lickers, Senior Vice-President of Indigenous Markets, CIBC   Join Jamie Lickers alongside government, industry, and Indigenous leaders in Toronto at the 8th Annual FNMPC Conference: Valuing Reconciliation in Global Markets taking place April 27-29.   Register now: www.fnmpc.ca/conference #IndigenousPartnership #EconomicReconciliation #FNMPC2025 #GlobalMarkets #SustainableBusiness

Integrating Indigenous leadership and values into supply chain strategies, sustainability efforts, and inclusivity initiatives is rapidly becoming a cornerstone for success in global markets. This approach addresses market demands and fosters mutually beneficial outcomes that respect Indigenous rights and priorities while enhancing competitiveness on the world stage. These collaborations reshape industries, driving innovation in clean energy, resource development, and infrastructure while ensuring alignment with global sustainability standards. Register for the 8th Annual FNMPC Conference now to learn more and connect with 1,600+ Indigenous leaders, private and public experts: fnmpc.ca/conference #IndigenousPartnership #EconomicReconciliation #FNMPC2025 #GlobalMarkets #SustainableBusiness

BC’s Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions and BC Hydro have announced nine project recipients for BC’s 2024 Call for Power, all of which feature First Nations partners. The First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC) congratulates the successful proponents of this Call. These nine projects, centering on First Nations partnerships, represents a necessary step in the economic #reconciliation journey and quickly bringing more clean power to BC’s grid. Notably, BC Hydro required a minimum 25% First Nations equity ownership for projects in this Call, and the resulting average ownership exceeded 50%. This result underscores the value that First Nations owners and partners contribute to projects on their lands and waters, accelerating Canada’s clean #energy transition. The FNMPC is proud to have supported one of our members, the Stellat'en First Nation, in their successful bid for BC’s 2024 Call for Power. The Stellat’en First Nation has entered into a general partnership with Innergex on the 200MW Nithi Mountain Wind Project. Further, we are pleased that four FNMPC members who put bids into the Call were successful: Wei Wai Kum First Nation, Lower Nicola Indian Band, Saulteau First Nations and Lheidli T'enneh Nation. The First Nations Major Projects Coalition extend our congratulations to all the successful First Nations and their industry partners, as well as the Clean Energy Association of BC (CEBC), which has advocated for and supported First Nations in BC’s electrification space for decades. The FNMPC remains committed to advocating for First Nations partnership and ownership that respects the interests of our First Nations members. This includes urging BC Hydro to establish Energy Purchase Agreements (#EPAs) that appropriately account for impacts to First Nations exercising their legal, treaty, and inherent rights to their unceded lands and waters. This 2024 Call for Power should only be BC’s first step of many towards bringing First Nation ownership and partnership in #electrification projects and infrastructure in the decades to come. This is a vital shift away from the historical exclusion of First Nations in BC’s power generation and transmission sectors. We look forward to additional BC Calls for Power as the Province gears up to meet the growing demand for clean energy. Learn more at: https://lnkd.in/gVSuX5R3

At the 8th Annual FNMPC Conference: Valuing Reconciliation in Global Markets, discover how integrating Indigenous principles can unlock long-term stability, improve access to capital, enhance regulatory compliance, and foster partnerships that benefit businesses and communities. Hear from Sharleen Gale, Executive Chair, FNMPC, alongside global corporate, policy, and Indigenous leaders, sharing actionable insights on how these partnerships drive stability, investment, and shared success. “This conference goes beyond just discussion; it’s about action. Taking meaningful steps that not only meet market demand but also contribute to reconciliation in ways that are beneficial to both businesses and communities”   Register now: fnmpc.ca/conference #IndigenousPartnership #EconomicReconciliation #FNMPC2025 #GlobalMarkets #SustainableBusiness

Last week, the First Nations Major Projects Coalition convened its 2024 Annual General Meeting, inviting over 170 member Nations to participate. This gathering provided a platform to celebrate a year of milestones, honour the contributions of outgoing leaders, and welcome new voices to our governance. The AGM recognized Simo'git TsaBux (Willie Blackwater) and Chief Corrina Leween for their pivotal roles in shaping FNMPC’s vision and growth. Their foundational contributions leave a lasting legacy of commitment to empowering First Nations across Canada. This year’s AGM also marked significant transitions in FNMPC’s leadership, and we want to acknowledge: - Returning Director: Jacqueline French (Chippewas of the Thames) - New Directors: Dillon Johnson, MBA, CAFM (Tla’amin First Nation) and Andrew John (Miawpukek First Nation) - Appointment of the Executive Chair: Sharleen Gale (Fort Nelson First Nation) Congratulations to each appointee, and thank you to everyone who stepped forward to offer their leadership and support. Explore the 2024 FNMPC Annual Report to learn more about our policy advocacy, member engagement, and project capacity support efforts this past year: https://lnkd.in/gv9SngxW

Looking for the premier event on Indigenous participation in Global Markets? Check out the 8th Annual FNMPC Conference, Valuing Reconciliation in Global Markets, where Indigenous leadership, industry experts and policymakers, will delve deeper and feature demonstrated examples of Indigenous success and their transformative impacts on global markets. “There’s a lot of things that still need to be done within our community so we can make decisions at the speed of business. I’m looking forward to the challenge. I know that our people are strong, healthy, proud, self-reliant—and that they’re going to make sure we’re meaningfully involved.”- Sharleen Gale (Fort Nelson First Nation), Executive Chair, FNMPC Don’t miss this opportunity. Register now: fnmpc.ca/conference #FNMPC2025 #IndigenousPartnership #SustainableInvestment #EconomicTransition

Yesterday, the FNMPC hosted a special reception during the Assembly of First Nations Special Chiefs of Assembly, bringing together members, partners, industry leaders, and government officials. This social gathering served as a platform for networking, fostering collaboration, and strengthening relationships to champion the advancement of First Nations interests in major projects. Events like these highlight FNMPC’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for dialogue, innovation, and partnership. Together, we are shaping a future that drives economic, and environmental progress for First Nations communities across the country. Looking ahead, we look forward to welcoming those at the 8th Annual FNMPC Conference, Valuing Reconciliation in Global Markets, where we’ll explore how Indigenous principles serve as a competitive advantage in advancing major projects. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation shaping Canada’s future. Learn more at: https://lnkd.in/gpFzxngx #IndigenousLeadership #EconomicReconciliation #FNMPC2025