Tendering policy on federally funded capital projects for First Nations on reserve

The Tendering Policy on Federally Funded Capital Projects for First Nations on Reserve has been replaced by the Policy on Tendering for First Nations' Federally Funded Capital Projects. This change is effective as of April 1, 2026.

First Nations should contact their Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) regional office for a copy of the updated tendering policy and its appendices.

The Policy on Tendering for First Nations' Federally Funded Capital Projects (tendering policy) states the requirements for hiring contractors and consultants for capital projects funded by ISC through the Capital Facilities and Maintenance Program (CFMP) and First Nations Infrastructure Fund (FNIF) authorities.

The tendering policy is supported by 5 appendices:

• Appendix 1: Guidelines for the Development of First Nations' Own Tendering Policies

This document assists First Nations in developing their own tendering policies.

• Appendix 2: Developing and Evaluating Business Plans

This document outlines the requirements for developing a business plan, which may be required for certain construction management projects, including those that use own forces. It also provides information on how these business plans are evaluated by ISC regional offices.

• Appendix 3: Thresholds for Professional Services and Construction

This document lists the thresholds for each First Nation community, which are used to help determine the appropriate process for soliciting bids and proposals for capital projects. 

• Appendix 4: Best Practices to Support the Implementation of the Tendering Policy

This document provides an overview of industry best practices for soliciting bids and proposals for construction, professional services, and non-professional services, and awarding contracts.

• Appendix 5: Additional Guidance on Evaluating Bids and Proposals

This document provides guidance to First Nations on applying various selection methodologies and developing criteria to evaluate bids and proposals for capital projects.