First Nations Infrastructure Institute

Optimizing your infrastructure project business case with best practices gives it the best chance of success.

Learn more about planning an Infrastructure Business Case.

FNII is an Indigenous-led institution that supports First Nations and Indigenous organizations in planning, procuring, owning, and managing their infrastructure assets on their lands. Participating First Nations opt in to using FNII services to implement the best practices and standards for infrastructure planning, procurement, design, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance.

This reduces the time to build infrastructure and extends its expected life, delivering improved value for the money invested.

Do you have questions about how FNII works with First Nations? Learn more fnii.ca/faq

Community infrastructure is more than just buildings. They are places of belonging, where we learn, work, play, heal, and gather.

We provide support for the skills and processes that enable First Nation communities and Indigenous organizations to plan, procure, own, and manage infrastructure on their lands efficiently and effectively. Learn more about FNII.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dx5NM03ZCl4

Improving Indigenous Infrastructure The First Nations Infrastructure Institute is an Indigenous-led org...

Planning an infrastructure project? These free tools, built by FNII for Indigenous communities and organizations, can help you get started.

View the full resource library at fnii.ca/resources

Transportation infrastructure matters more than most people realize. Roads can connect lands that may be part of your community’s development plans for member housing, community use buildings, or economic development projects.

Transportation improvements can include:

+ Pedestrian lighting and safety
+ Road widening and surfacing
+ Bridges and structures

Plus stormwater management to prevent erosion, localized flooding, and property damage.

Roads can be complex, involving other governments and different design standards. FNII can work with communities to develop a Request for Proposals to retain a professional firm to plan and design roads. FNII can also work alongside your team members to review and score bids to find a firm well-suited to undertake planning and design work you have in mind.

A strong business case is the foundation of any successful transportation project. has free tools and resources to help your community get started.

Learn more at fnii.ca/resources

Planning water or wastewater infrastructure improvements for your community? These vital infrastructure projects support many kinds of development in your community.

FNII has free tools and resources to help your community plan water and wastewater infrastructure. fnii.ca/resources

What’s the difference between ‘managing assets’ and Asset Management?

It’s about moving from being reactive to being proactive. Learn more and start planning for the future.

When a First Nation builds new infrastructure—like housing, water systems, or community buildings—the benefits can go beyond the project itself.

Every project is different, but there are potential ripple effects when a Nation is involved with and leads a project in their territory. Jobs may be created. Local businesses might be hired. More income could stay in the community. And young people can see what’s possible when their Nation leads the way.

At the First Nations Infrastructure Institute (FNII), we offer the tools, guidance, and support needed to plan, build, and manage community infrastructure on your terms and at your pace.

This support may include developing a business case, hiring external experts, or assisting with operational management. Some Nations need support for the entire process, while others require only a few steps.

Either way, FNII walks alongside you to help you realize your vision. Because when communities lead, good things follow.

First Nations communities across Canada are shaping their futures through infrastructure projects.

Episode 19 of the FNII podcast—recorded live at the 2024 Leading the Way conference—is a panel discussion about First Nations infrastructure strategies and support for community development.

Jason Calla, FNII Technical Advisor, moderates the conversation with Alanea Holmstrom (Tax Administrator, Osoyoos Indian Band, BC) and Evan Roberts (Councillor, Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation, SK).

Together, they share stories of projects that lead to economic and community growth, covering subjects such as building roads, managing stormwater, and creating utilities.

This episode highlights how FNII supports First Nations and empowers communities to take the lead in building their futures.

Listen now: https://fnii.ca/podcasts/

Membertou First Nation in Una’ma’ki (Cape Breton, NS) faced poverty and bankruptcy two decades ago. Today, it’s a thriving community celebrated for its incredible infrastructure growth.

In the latest episode of the FNII podcast, host Richard Perry sits down with Melissa MacDonald, Manager of Taxation and Lands, to discuss Membertou's development. This conversation, recorded at the Leading the Way 7 conference, highlights the vision and determination that turned Membertou's challenges into opportunities.

Listen to episode 18 of the FNII podcast for the full story: https://fnii.ca/podcasts/