2024-25 Gender-based analysis plus

Subprogram Context

The program aims to reduces the incidence and impacts of communicable diseases among eligible populations through prevention, treatment, outbreak control, on infection prevention and public education. It considers the effects of colonialism on health disparities. GBA Plus supports regions to collaborate with communities and implement targeted actions.

Subprogram Goals

Because of considerable limitations, GBA Plus was not used in the design of the program. Subject to data availability and data sharing agreements developments, the program has limited ability to report on its progress with addressing communicable diseases impacts for diverse groups of individuals or communities.

Focus Population

First Nations on Reserve; Inuit in the provinces and territories (tuberculosis programming).

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Indigenous communities experience intersecting health and socioeconomic challenges rooted in Canada's colonial history. Systemic inequities, such as inadequate housing, food insecurity, and limited access to culturally safe health services, can increase exposure to communicable diseases. Applying a GBA Plus lens suggests that these inequities contribute to disproportionate impacts of communicable diseases among specific populations, including women, children, older adults, 2SLGBTQI+ people, persons with disabilities and Indigenous Peoples residing in Indigenous communities.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

The Communicable Disease Control Management Division subprograms have mitigated challenges experienced by diverse subpopulations through continued collaboration with Indigenous partners, ISC regions, and federal, provincial and territorial partners. For example, through the Vaccine Preventable Disease Program's Immunization Network, the Federal, Provincial, Territorial, Indigenous (FPTI) Vaccine Preventable Disease Working Group, and the National Advisory Committee on Immunizations, ISC advocates for equitable program considerations for Indigenous Peoples. Additionally, the tuberculosis program aims to reduce the incidence and burden of tuberculosis in First Nations and Inuit communities by addressing diverse needs and barriers to care through strong partnerships, particularly in underserved, rural, and remote communities facing ongoing and historical outbreaks. The Sexually Transmitted and Blood Borne Infections (STBBI) program supports culturally-safe prevention, education, capacity building and awareness to ensure culturally safe testing, treatment, and support activities for STBBIs in First Nation and Inuit communities.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The Communicable Diseases Control Division (CDCD) is working with other ISC teams to ensure the preservation and integrity of legacy data and applications in the custody of the NCR and regional teams (Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec) by developing and implementing a new software solution to integrate case management, contact tracing, and surveillance data system for the prevention and control of communicable disease outbreaks, and to enable a stronger GBA Plus monitoring. This process is currently at gate two of a three-gated internal IT infrastructure review and approval process.

Subprogram Context

The subprogram support First Nations to identify, mitigate, and prevent human health risks associated with exposure to hazards in natural and built environments. Frontline services delivered by or under the guidance of Environmental Public Health Officers address housing and living conditions, drinking water quality and wastewater systems, and facilities to which the public have access, such as restaurants and schools. Key activities include public education, training, inspections, assessments, and advice. EPHS also provides funding and in kind support to communities associated with the health impacts of climate change, major industrial development and environmental contaminants. The BC First Nations Health Authority delivers EPH services and programs to BC First Nations.

Subprogram Goals

Environmental Public Health (EPH) aims to identify, mitigate and prevent human health risks associated with exposure to hazards within First Nations communities. EPH Officers work with First Nations authorities to identify priorities and risks by prioritizing those areas and facilities with vulnerable populations (e.g., children, breast/chest feeding people, elderly folks).

Focus Population

First Nations on reserve south of the 60th parallel; Inuit in the North; specific focus on youth, Elders, and other groups. The BC First Nations Health Authority delivers EPH services and programs to BC First Nations.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Services are offered at the community level; e.g., inspection of childcare facilities and restaurants and monitoring of drinking water systems. As such, although the entire community benefits, these benefits are greater for those most vulnerable to environmental public health risks (e.g., children, youth, Elders, and individuals with underlying health conditions). Risks and priorities are reassessed with community leaders as new information emerges. The Climate Change and Health Adaptation Program supports all community members, with a focus on children, youth, and Elders, who will experience the impacts of climate change most acutely over time. The Impact Assessment and Health Service includes assessment of the impacts of major industrial development on vulnerable populations. Community members are eligible to become Community Based Water Monitors, providing valuable employment opportunities in areas of high unemployment.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

EPH Officers build strong relationships grounded in the culture of service with First Nations communities. They are a trusted source of information and guidance, helping to reduce barriers that stem from a lack of trust and shameful colonial policies and interventions. Through this work, EPH officers are helping communities to implement practices to prevent environmental public health risks that could result in negative health outcomes for community members and in particular priority populations.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Currently, restrictions around privacy prevent the program from gathering data about environmental public health professionals. The program continues to explore other avenues to collect this information, while minimizing potential impacts on regional managers.

The Impact Assessment and Health Service team is administering the First Nations Baseline Assessment Program on Health and the Environment. Last year, the team developed a new reporting tool (DCI HC-151) that will be used by funded First Nations communities and organisations to report on the results, including GBA Plus data. The requirement for the DCI HC-151 starts in the 2025-26 fiscal year.

Therefore, final reports submitted starting July 29, 2026 will include GBA Plus data pertaining to projects conducted under BAPHE.

Subprogram Context

The program supports community-based services from preconception to early childhood development. Areas of focus include prenatal health, postnatal health and newborn care, nutrition, early literacy and learning, and physical, emotional and mental health.

Subprogram Goals

The program works with Indigenous partners (e.g., Indigenous Women's Well-Being Advisory Committee (IWAC)] and the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Transformation Initiative to ensure Indigenous Peoples design programming.

Focus Population

First Nations communities; Inuit.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Maternal Child Health and the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program primarily serve women. The Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder program provides prevention for pregnant individuals and gender nonspecific screening and case management for children. Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve targets children from 0-6 years old and their families.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

The Maternal Child Health program is adaptable to the needs of First Nations and Inuit parents, who are often younger, have more children, and are less likely to be married or in common-law relationships than non-Indigenous parents. Rural and remote families face additional challenges in accessing services. Inuit Nunangat's four regions—Inuvialuit, Nunavut, Nunavik, and Nunatsiavut—have self-governing agreements that include HCD program funding. Each region tailors its programs to meet the specific needs and priorities of its beneficiaries.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The co-developed results framework for Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care (lead by Employment and Social Development Canada) will be finished in March of 2026. The framework provides an opportunity for data disaggregation.

The new Indigenous Midwifery data collection instrument (DCI) was created in 2023, collaboratively with the National Council of Indigenous Midwives (NCIM), the Indigenous Women's Advisory Committee (IWAC), and FNIHB regional midwifery leads. The DCI includes questions relevant to each pathway (i.e. step) communities commonly take to restore Indigenous midwifery services. This includes readiness activities, training to increase the workforce, new service delivery/programs, infrastructure to support program delivery, and addressing jurisdictional boundaries to allow Indigenous midwives to practice in their communities.

Examples of indicators that could be reported and disaggregated from the new data collection instrument-includes (but is not limited to):

• Communities accessing Indigenous midwifery services, by location (region, rural/urban, isolated/remote).
• Types of service delivery arrangements and training programs, by region and rural/urban, isolated/remote).
• Number of clients accessing Indigenous midwifery services, by location (region, rural/urban, isolated/remote).
• Number of students who completed midwifery and/or birth support worker training, by program/location (ISC region, may also be disaggregated by rural/urban and/or isolated/remote).

The program continues work with Indigenous partners, including the Indigenous Women's Well-being Advisory Committee and the Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care Transformation Initiative. This work ensures Indigenous people design new programming and results frameworks.

Subprogram Context

The program funds and supports culturally relevant, community-based programs and services that promote healthy behaviours and create supportive environments. Activities include healthy eating, food security, physical activity, reducing commercial tobacco use, chronic disease prevention and management, and injury prevention.

Subprogram Goals

Flexible funding allows communities and funding recipient organizations to design and implement activities tailored to their unique needs and priorities. Communities adapt their programming to ensure accessibility for their priority populations. They may hold engagement sessions with community members to better understand their needs, leading to more effective and inclusive outcomes.

Focus Population

First Nations communities; Inuit communities; Métis organizations receive funding under one sub-sub program only.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

The Healthy Living programs and services are intended to support all First Nations on reserve and Inuit living in Inuit Nunangat. From the limited data that is currently available, there is not sufficient data available to make assertions regarding participation in Healthy Living activities amongst gender and age groups. Future qualitative information gathering may provide more insight into GBA Plus considerations for the program.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Demographic data (including gender, age) for 2024-25 (based on community annual reports collected in 2023-24) for Nutrition North Canada Nutrition Education Initiatives are available. Similar gender and age information is being collected in 2025-26 for the first time through the Healthy Living Data collection instrument (DCI). The program anticipates completing analysis of the DCI results in Fall 2026.

Subprogram Context

The program funds Indigenous-led, culturally relevant, and community-based mental wellness services including mental health promotion, on-the-land initiatives, life promotion and suicide prevention, mental wellness teams, and substance use services. It supports access to mental wellness services to address trauma through cultural support, mental health, and 24/7 crisis line services.

Subprogram Goals

The program works with national, regional and community Indigenous partners. It follows Indigenous-led strategies: First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework; Honouring Our Strengths; the National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy; and, We Matter's Pathfinding Towards a Flourishing Future: Awareness and Advocacy Guide.

These Indigenous-led approaches are key to improving mental wellness.

Focus Population

Primarily First Nations on reserve and Inuit in Inuit Nunangat.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Mental wellness program funding is flexible, which supports communities to design and deliver services that reflect the cultural, linguistic, and demographic characteristics of their members. In contrast to prescriptive or nationally driven approaches, this model supports Indigenous-led, locally determined responses that effectively address the unique needs of individuals, families, and communities. Some program elements that intend to meet the needs of specific demographic groups include: the Youth Hope Fund, which supports youth-led approaches to suicide prevention and life promotion; and, the Trauma-Informed Health and Cultural Support Programs, which provide trauma-specific support to Survivors of Indian Residential Schools and Indian Day Schools and their families, as well as Survivors, family members, and Indigenous people impacted by the ongoing tragedy of Missing and Murdered Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

The First Peoples Wellness Circle's qualitative assessment and formative analysis of the Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program discussed program impacts across interlinked traumas with the following findings: Survivors and intergenerational Survivors benefit from tailored mental health supports that are trauma-informed and that honour traditional healing practices and Indigenous knowledge. The program has improved access and availability of appropriate services close to home. The program's holistic approach has helped individuals mitigate the impact of trauma, revitalized connections to culture and community, and improved family relationships.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The Program's ability to report results pertaining to diverse groups will be dependent upon priorities set by partners – which may be community-based, regionally and/or by distinction, (if/where applicable). Current Program Data Collection Instruments used for annual reporting are under review and revision for Fiscal Year 2026-27 reporting, with many not providing gender disaggregated data. However, reliance upon external sources (census data, survey responses with GBA Plus indicators specified) continues.

Activities of the program that contribute to improving the ability to understand needs of/outcomes for specific groups are informed by, and adapted to, the priority setting of the communities offering the services via approved community-driven health and wellness plans, annual workplans, etc., where changes in focus can serve as indicators for changes in mental health and wellness needs presenting in community members themselves.

Subprogram Context

The program provides home and community care services including: client assessments, case coordination and management; nursing, palliative personal and supportive care; in-home respite; health system linkages and referrals; access to medical supplies and devices; client management records and program management; rehabilitation; adult day care; meal programs; and, in-home mental health care.

Subprogram Goals

The program is transferred in 98% of First Nation communities and 100% of Inuit out of 686 communities. Recipients are responsible for managing health human resources and the intake, assessment and services for First Nations and Inuit requiring services. The program enables communities to administer culturally-based services to everyone.

Focus Population

First Nations on reserve; Inuit in community.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

The program provides medical, personal and supportive care to individuals of any age with short-term or acute needs, or to individuals of any age with complex continuing care needs, including seniors, persons with disabilities or those with acute/chronic care needs. Care plans are established to maintain or improve client health, enabling them to stay in their preferred care setting. Home health professionals regularly assess clients for health condition exacerbations and apply interventions to prevent or address these issues, contributing to reduced adverse health outcomes, hospitalizations, or institutionalization.. This care supports recovery from surgery or acute conditions, potentially avoiding hospitalizations outside the home community and supporting early discharge after hospitalization. Indigenous people receive culturally adapted palliative and end-of-life care, allowing them to remain near their families and communities. While primarily serving older adults, the program also supports pediatric clients needing complex nursing interventions and wraparound case management in their home communities.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

Through the Home and Community Care Program, ISC promotes common and best practices, and standards of care that support the prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation for lower limbs in Indigenous communities. Associated knowledge exchange activities include funding Canada's first Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) Indigenous Skin and Wound Care program, delivered by Woundpedia and Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and continence Canada (NSWOCC) for registered health professionals, and a bi-monthly Knowledge Sharing Circle for front-line staffs. Continuing learning opportunities build frontline staff knowledge and skills to reduce the incidence of complications and amputations for lower limbs in Indigenous communities.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

ISC continues progress towards developing a new, comprehensive long-term and continuing care approach with First Nations and Inuit partners that aims to support community members of all ages to receive necessary care at home, promoting their ability to stay within their community, share traditional knowledge and healing practices, and maintain independence. Once it is completed, this approach could inform policy authorities, funding, implementation activities and evaluation.

In 2025-26, ISC will be conducting engagement with Indigenous organizations on the Home and Long-Term Care data strategy and incorporate feedback from ongoing Indigenous partner engagement to support the development of a data strategy to measure current and prospective demand for program services relative to the capacity to provide them. The analysis of demand will enable trend analysis that may be incorporated with other data sources to support prediction of future demands and to support health equity. This includes looking for patterns of inequity and inequality and measuring these impacts over time. The working group will also consider options that support data disaggregation to capture geographical variability patterns as well as qualitative and quantitative data. The finalized data strategy will consider systemic barriers and available program demographics. It will also use an intersectional lens at every phase of data collection and analysis, and it will contribute to program decisions that reflect diverse realities.

Subprogram Context

The program provides accessible in-home, group-home and institutional care supports to eligible low-income individuals. It provides funding for non-medical social supports and support for service delivery so that seniors and persons with disabilities can maintain functional independence within their home and communities.

Subprogram Goals

The program complements non-medical social service provision at the provincial/territorial level off-reserve for individuals ordinarily residing on-reserve. Provision of these services alleviates systemic burdens on women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities in Indigenous communities, many of which are remote.

Focus Population

First Nations ordinarily resident on reserve and Status Indians in the Yukon who do not have the means to obtain such services themselves.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Subpopulations include seniors and persons with disabilities. The program takes steps to ensure that subpopulations are eligible to receive funding and that program elements are suitable and responsive to their needs. Available data provides limited insight into impact of gender on the availability of service. However, based on data from provinces/territories and reserves, the proportion of women caregivers and beneficiaries who depend on services is high. ISC recognizes that program supports potentially have greater positive impact on women, because, culturally, they shoulder more responsibilities for the care of children and adults with functional limitations.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

By bridging gaps in care stemming from lack of provincial authorities, the program allows Elders in First Nations to maintain their independence while residing in their home communities. This mitigates the triggering of traumas related to historical injustices such as residential schools. It also alleviates the burden of providing unpaid care work, which is born mostly by women. These effects compound to result in the strengthening of community and maintenance of the role of individuals belonging to the diverse sub-population the program benefits.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Further to the data plan for Home and Community Care, which will also benefit Assisted Living (as part of the Home and Long Term Care program), the HLTC Program cluster evaluation is expected to yield feedback on external-facing aspects of the program. The evaluation is expected to yield information on several GBA Plus-related issues, including reliance on unpaid care work, a burden born disproportionately by women, and the effect of remoteness on a community's capacity to provide services. As such, the HLTC Cluster evaluation is expected to provide crucial feedback that will support future program improvements in the collection of data that support the implementation of GBA Plus-informed programming.

Subprogram Context

The program provides urgent/emergent, primary care and public health services in remote communities. Services include triage; emergency resuscitation and stabilization; emergency ambulatory care; outpatient non-urgent services; coordinated/integrated care and referral to other appropriate levels of care; and, hospital inpatient, ambulatory and emergency services.

Subprogram Goals

The program provides health services to remote and isolated communities where many provincial healthcare services are not accessible (e.g., preventative health, emergency, ambulatory, outpatient care). It provides culturally-sensitive care, respects traditions, and addresses the health impacts of intergenerational trauma. Cultural values and the social determinants of health inform Clinical Care Pathways.

Focus Population

First Nations; anyone in Clinical and Client Care served communities.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Nurses provide primary services and adhere to ethics that emphasize respect, diversity, and avoiding assumptions. The program focuses on collaboration to ensure accessible services and address barriers. It accounts for the disproportionate burden of diseases, like cardiovascular conditions and diabetes, among Indigenous clients, especially in remote communities. Women represent a significant number of nurses, which benefits the field, and efforts are ongoing to recruit and retain qualified frontline nurses to ensure continued care. Historically, access to services in remote and isolated communities has been inconsistent. Efforts are now focused on improving service availability for all residents, workers, and visitors.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Currently, the mix of paper-based data collection and the lack of a robust national health data system creates a barrier to easily aggregate data across the communities served. With appropriate resourcing and planning, and in accordance with the First Nations principles of Ownership, Control, Access and Possession (OCAP®) of health data, the implementation of electronic medical records (EMR) could allow the program to collect GBA Plus-related data. ISC is developing a recommended inventory of EMR data elements for First Nations consideration, which includes the elements that will support some aspects of GBA Plus reporting.

Subprogram Context

The Community Oral Health Services (COHS) program addresses oral health needs and reduce disparities. It supports culturally appropriate community-based programs, services, initiatives, and strategies.

Subprogram Goals

The program offers services in mostly isolated communities and to those without access to other oral health services. Communities tailor it to their specific GBA Plus needs. Sites are often in schools to remove barriers for children. Services are delivered by dental hygienists, dental therapists as well as community workers or COHS aides.

Focus Population

All populations living within First Nations and Inuit communities, with a focus on children (0-7 years), parents/caregivers and pregnant women

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Services are available in mostly isolated communities or in communities that are without access to other oral health services. The program provides oral health care to all individuals living in First Nations communities, with a focus on children, their caregivers and pregnant people. The program includes primary and secondary preventive oral health services, as well as tertiary restorative services.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

Overall positive oral health experience, with reduced pain, enhanced smile, boosted self-esteem, better nutrition and overall improvement in quality of life for the clients served.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The program will also work to collect information from regions to assess the challenges and barriers in access to care and service delivery.

Subprogram Context

The program improves the efficiency of health care service delivery to First Nations through eHealth partnerships, technologies, tools, and services for defining, collecting, communicating, managing, disseminating, and using data.

Subprogram Goals

The program considers the health needs and health care system interactions of First Nations people. Digital health increases health care access for First Nations in remote and isolated communities with limited in-person services. Digital health technologies reduce medical travel.

Focus Population

First Nations communities and institutions.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Program clinical telehealth sessions have significantly reduced barriers for women and pregnant individuals, including reducing disruption by limiting medical travel. For youth, telehealth offers advantages in mental wellness by preserving confidentiality. In pediatrics, it keeps keeping families together during extended medical treatments. Telehealth services enhance healthcare access for First Nations residents in remote and isolated communities by reducing language barriers and costly travel. By allowing patients to receive care in their communities, telehealth reduces Indigenous health disparities as compared to non-Indigenous Canadians. It also provides safe, accessible spaces for gender-diverse individuals, offering essential mental wellness, routine health services, and gender-affirming care that might otherwise be difficult to obtain.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

Grants and Contributions and evaluation reports indicate that:

1. Clients in First Nations communities have the choice to stay in community to receive care, close to their family, friends and support system. The availability of digital health provides an alternative to medical travel.
2. Access to digital health means accessible health care for people in First Nations communities who might not seek medical attention if it means travelling to a city or town.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan

The eHealth Infostructure subprogram is developing additional GBA Plus indicators that would measure the distribution and resilience of connectivity services in health facilities, with disaggregation to demonstrate regional disparities.

Focus Population

Indigenous populations and institutions, with variation by sub-initiative.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Various initiatives under this program support the health systems of smaller and more rural communities. These communities may be less integrated with their local health authorities. They may face capacity challenges because of economies of scale and limited health human resources. These communities require projects and resources to improve their health integration and implement standards of care. Supporting the capacities of health systems in smaller and more rural communities allows for a greater suite of services available for those with unique health needs.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Health Transformation project partners determine which groups they engage with as they develop their Health Transformation vision and health governance models to ensure that they are including the perspectives of diverse groups within their work. For example, depending on the project, partners have engaged Elders, youth, women, leadership, academics, and health economists. The program will continue to collect information on which diverse groups the Health Transformation partners are working with to advance their work of developing health governance structures for their members.

Canada is also working with Health Transformation partners to ensure that in the future, there will be specific indicators developed to measure progress and outcomes of transfer, systemic changes and impacts on the health outcomes of First Nations in particular regions. Canada will seek to work with partners on these indicators to ensure that they encourage the use of a GBA Plus lens, while acknowledging that First Nations health entities exercise control over the use, collection, and access to health data of their communities.

Canada, the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) (representing 203 communities) and the Province of British Columbia (BC) participate in five-year independent evaluations of the BC Tripartite Framework Agreement. These evaluations address the effectiveness of the health governance structure, effectiveness of First Nations, federal and provincial relations, health system integration, and improvements to health outcomes and determinants. Per the recommendations of the 2019 and 2024 evaluation reports, Canada is working with the FNHA and Province of BC on a monitoring and implementation strategy that includes additional indicators above and beyond health indicators. This includes indicators measuring the extent to which youth, elders, 2SLGBTQI+ and others have experienced improved access to health services. Partners will collect data from community engagement and document reviews to inform these indicators, from a GBA Plus + perspective.

Data collection under the Health Services Integration Fund (HSIF) focuses on distinctions-based information i.e. First Nations and Inuit communities involved or benefiting through HSIF projects, number of projects per Province or Territory, and improved access to health services through cross-jurisdictional collaborative initiatives.

Data collection under the Indigenous Health Equity Fund is distinctions-based and Indigenous-led, and provides information about the planned activities, priorities, and funding for a range of community-based health services. This along with reporting information will provide department officials with the priorities identified by Indigenous communities and organizations, their planned activities and ultimately, their progress.

Under the Accreditation program, a plan to collect evidence to support the application of GBA Plus through the accreditation bodies annual reports has been discussed with some themes identified and methods to capture the data through the on-site accreditation surveys in communities. This data will be shared with ISC using OCAP principles and ensure anonymity to demonstrate how Accreditation demonstrates GBA plus application.

ISC's Regional Navigation and Health Planning team continues to work on ensuring the indicator tracking the percentage of First Nations communities with an Indigenous-led plan for health service delivery accurately reflects all communities, including those that receive health services from entities such as health authorities and tribal councils. First Nations and First Nations organizations, who have received Flexible, Block, or NFR Grant funding for Health programs, develop plans for community-based health programming.

The Health Systems Support program funded Indigenous partners to develop and administer health surveys and collaborates with Statistics Canada to inform these surveys. The program continues to work closely with the First Nations Information Governance Centre (FNIGC) on the 2015-16 First Nations Regional Health Survey (RHS), which gathers self-reported data on both Western and Traditional health perspectives from First Nations on-reserve communities and in northern communities. This collaboration helps identify gaps in health outcomes and barriers to services for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people, particularly those with diverse gender identities and across different age groups. The program continues to explore how survey results can be disaggregated by factors such as community remoteness to enhance intersectional analysis of health outcomes and address challenges related to access to healthcare and Health Human Resources.

Under the Addressing Anti-Indigenous Racism initiative, for health systems navigators and patient advocates, data is collected on the individuals supported including their gender identity, age group, and Indigenous identity, to support monitoring the specific populations that are requesting and receiving support. Data is also collected on the categories of supports requested and provided.

Program Context

The Program, also known as the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program (NIHB), provides registered First Nations and recognized Inuit with coverage for health benefits not otherwise covered by other private plans or provincial/territorial health and social programs. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications, dental and vision care, medical supplies and equipment, mental health counselling, and transportation to access health services not available locally.

Program Goals

The Program provides coverage to eligible clients, regardless of sex, gender, age, income or geographic location and, ensures benefits address the specific needs of clients. The Program also addresses varying levels of health service availability (e.g., medical transportation and service provider travel to rural, remote and isolated communities).

Focus Population

Registered First Nation people; recognized Inuit

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

In collaboration with First Nation and Inuit partners, the program works to identify and mitigate potential barriers that may impact access to benefits. For example, the program has specific policy and program interventions designed to address differential impacts and needs including coverage of benefits primarily used by women, coverage of specific measures for Two-Spirit or gender-diverse individuals (i.e. gender affirming care), coverage of age specific benefits, coverage of condition specific benefits and coverage of benefits for people living with a disability. These interventions are designed based on robust data, clinical evidence, and continuous policy analysis/development.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Only the information needed to support the benefits claim is collected, and available for aggregate-level analysis and reporting. The data collected by the program can be disaggregated based on a variety of identity factors for analysis and program management. It is used to inform policy development or interventions to address differential impacts. Additional detail is available in the most recent NIHB Program Annual Report.

Program Context

Jordan's Principle and the Inuit Child First Initiative (ICFI) ensure that First Nations and Inuit children can access essential government funded products, services and supports for their health, social and educational needs.

Program Goals

The initiatives reduce barriers to accessing essential government funded products, services, and supports. Requests are handled in a non-discriminatory manner, focusing on the best interests of the child while considering their community's distinct circumstances. Funding for approved requests supports categories of items such as medical transportation, allied health, and respite services.

Focus Population

First Nations and Inuit children

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Jordan's Principle processes both individual and group requests, with demographic data available only for individual requests. For individual requests approved through Jordan's Principle in 2024-25, the average age of a recipient was 8 years old and 52% were male, 67% had no chronic conditions, and 50% ordinarily resided off reserve. The top category of approved requests for both male and female children was economic supports. For individual requests approved through the Inuit Child First Initiative in 2024-25, the average age of a recipient was 8 years old, 52% were male, and 83% of children had no chronic conditions. The top category of approved requests for both male and female children was economic supports.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

Program Goals

By funding emergency shelters, transition homes, and community-driven violence prevention activities, this program supports the Gender-Based Violence and Access to Justice goals of Canada's Gender Results Framework, Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality), and the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two Spirit people (MMIWG2S).

Family Violence Prevention Program

Pathways to Safer Indigenous Communities Initiative

Program Goals

The Government of Canada prioritizes keeping Indigenous families together and children in their communities and cultures with culturally appropriate services. The program addresses these priorities through the First Nations Child and Family Services (FNCFS) program and An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families (the Act).

An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children, youth, and families

First Nations Child and Family Services

Income Assistance

Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples

By Gender

Broadly gender-balanced

By Age Group

Primarily benefits youth, children, and/or future generations.

By Income

Strongly benefits low‑income individuals

By Gender

60% to 79% women

By Age Group

Primarily benefits youth, children and/or future generations

By Income

Somewhat benefits low‑income individuals

Subprogram Context

The program provides funding for education infrastructure in First Nation communities including new construction, as well as expansions, renovations and major repairs to existing facilities. These investments support quality learning environments, promoting better educational outcomes for students living on reserve and contributing to their long-term socioeconomic wellbeing.

Subprogram Goals

Revisions to the School Space Accommodation Standards (SSAS) include gender-neutral washrooms, culturally appropriate spaces, and accommodations for Knowledge Keepers.

Focus Population

First Nations children and youth in K-12 education facilities on reserve.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Safe, healthy and modern schools will support students and help to increase educational attainment. Investments will increase the safety and wellbeing of community members and help keep families together. First Nations women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals will be able to access necessary education services within their community, reducing the need to travel to other areas where they may face increased risks of violence. In the long-term, this support to keep families intact will have important and positive benefits on retention of Indigenous heritage, language and culture.

Inadequate facilities disproportionately affect girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+ students, and students with special needs. Poor facility conditions can increase victimization risks, exacerbate health issues, and negatively impact women, who often work in these environments. The absence of on-reserve schools particularly impacts children in remote areas, girls, 2SLGBTQQIA+ students, and those with disabilities, increasing risks and challenges related to off-reserve education.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Within the planning phase, steps have been taken to support GBA Plus-informed needs. For example, feasibility studies for education facilities utilize stakeholder engagements, Indigenous knowledges, facility assessments, education reports, education specifications, and inclusive services and programs. These deliverables in the feasibility study help inform the design of the education facility. Moving forward, work on design and post occupancy reviews will be explored to help validate the GBA Plus needs identified during the feasibility stage.

In collaboration with the Elementary and Secondary Education program, the Education Facilities Program is also analyzing available data on graduation rates to determine if there is any correlation with new schools that have been build and/or school expansions.

Subprogram Context

The First Nations On-reserve Housing Program provides funding for First Nations to: plan and manage housing needs; design, construct and acquire new housing units; as well as renovate existing housing units.

Subprogram Goals

The First Nations On-reserve Housing Program aims to increase the supply of safe, adequate housing, enhancing housing outcomes for on-reserve residents and improving socio-economic conditions by addressing the intersectional impacts of poverty, trauma and systemic discrimination.

Focus Population

First Nations on reserve.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Adequate housing is crucial for health and well-being. However, First Nation communities face a long-standing housing shortage, leading to overcrowding, poor indoor air quality and associated health risks, particularly for children, elders and persons with disabilities. Investments in housing can improve quality of life, reduce socio-economic disparities and increase participation in the economy.

Supplementary Information Sources

• Benefits for All Canadians (Part 1): Economic Impact of Closing the Infrastructure Gap (2024) (PDF) and Benefits for All Canadians (Part 2): Long-term Socio-economic Impacts of Closing the Infrastructure Gap by 2030 (2025) (PDF)
• Indigenous Housing: Policy and Engagement Final Report to Indigenous Services Canada (PDF)
• The National Indigenous Economic Development Board: The Indigenous Economic Progress Report 2024 (PDF)

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Each community develops their infrastructure plan according to their needs and priorities. Program data is collected annually via the self-reported Data Collection Instrument. In the future, the program will report on the ,"Percentage of children in First Nations communities living in unsuitable housing." Data is expected by 2026.

Subprogram Context

The Water and Wastewater program provides funding to plan, design, construct, acquire, operate and maintain water and wastewater systems. This includes the treatment and distribution of water and the collection, treatment and disposal of wastewater.

Subprogram Goals

The program identifies infrastructure needs, develops capital plans, supports training and capacity building and implements management practices for facility maintenance. Water infrastructure is developed to meet health and safety standards, and service levels are comparable to those in non-Indigenous communities. First Nations determine priorities and submit project proposals.

Focus Population

First Nations on reserve.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Limited access to clean water disproportionately affects elders, children, persons with disabilities, and women who often bear a heavier burden for caregiving tasks.

In 2024-25, the program has partnered with various First Nations partner organizations, such as Indspire and the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program, in an effort to support underrepresented groups for water operations (a male-dominated profession). Indspire funding has specific bursaries for women and 2SLGBTQI+ people, while the ISET proposals received additional points if they included women in their plan.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The Department does not have a dedicated GBA Plus indicator in the performance framework for the First Nations Water and Wastewater Enhanced Program (FNWWEP). First Nations are responsible for planning and managing their own water and wastewater projects, which limits the Department's ability to address the existing disaggregated data gap, and quantify the direct impacts of water and wastewater investments on specific demographics of First Nation communities on-reserve.

The Department is considering how to implement recommendations to incorporate Ownership, Control, Access and Possession (OCAP) principles and the First Nations and Inuit Health and Wellness indicators. In addition, the Program is exploring whether to disaggregate two Annual Performance Inspection indicators for remoteness (Percentage of on-reserve public water systems financially supported by Indigenous Services Canada that have low risk ratings and Percentage of on-reserve public water systems financially supported by Indigenous Services Canada that meet the prescribed Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality standards) Indigenous Services Canada is also considering how to improve the quality of evidence by continuing to work with First Nations and their representative organizations, to ensure that underrepresented groups are included in Indigenous Services Canada-funded programs.

Subprogram Context

The program supports the development and delivery of community health services by funding the planning, design, construction, renovation, and repair of health infrastructure. These investments help First Nations and Inuit communities provide health care professionals with functional, sustainable spaces to deliver health services efficiently and safely.

Subprogram Goals

The program engages directly with First Nations on the expected outcomes of health infrastructure projects, including data collection. The program encourages physical accessibility in facilities and supports culturally relevant designs. Local content clauses are recommended in contracting to prioritize First Nation-owned companies or those employing First Nation workers.

Focus Population

First Nations and non-First Nations people on reserve.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

First Nations communities face high rates of chronic disease, exacerbated by factors like overcrowding. Investments in health infrastructure are critical for mitigating these effects and improving access to local health services, including pre/postnatal and mental health care. Enhanced facilities also promote culturally relevant service delivery, improve recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals, and address staffing challenges in remote areas.

Investments in health infrastructure help to make sure that First Nations families can remain together while seeking healthcare by avoiding medical-related travel. Increasing access to healthcare in-community also aids in breaking the cycle of intergenerational trauma as a result of anti-Indigenous racism that individuals may face in healthcare systems out of community. This will also have a longer-term benefit on First Nations languages and culture, as Elders will be present in communities to share their knowledge with younger generations.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

Subprogram Context

This sub-program funds the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of roads, bridges, energy systems, connectivity, structural mitigation, fire protection, cultural and recreational facilities, and administrative buildings. It also supports activities like skills development, fire protection, service transfers, and asset management planning. These sustainable, reliable, community-driven investments improve communities' well-being and prosperity.

Subprogram Goals

The program funds the development of community-led infrastructure plans based on communities' specific needs and priorities. It encourages First Nations to consider how their proposed projects would contribute to the diverse demographic groups' health, safety and well-being.

Focus Population

First Nations on reserve.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

• Roads and bridges improve access to and reduce the costs of off-reserve healthcare, education and employment; food, goods and services benefitting youth, women, single parent households, 2SLGBTQI+individuals, unemployed and low-income individuals, and people with disabilities.
• Connectivity enhances cultural, educational, remote employment and online business opportunities, telehealth, and access to online services, which benefits children and youth, women, single parent households, 2SLGBTQI+ youth, seniors, unemployed and low-income individuals, and people with disabilities.
• Cultural and recreational facilities support cultural healing, resilience, and sports activities, promoting health, wellbeing and social connection for children and youth, Elders, people with disabilities and addictions, trauma survivors, women, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.
• Fire protection and structural mitigation protects at-risk groups (e.g. children, the elderly, people with disabilities, and low-income households) from injury, displacement, and financial hardship.
• Energy systems mitigate health risks, facilitate daily activities, and reduce energy costs, benefitting children, women, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income households.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

Other Community Infrastructure enables the construction of major infrastructure assets, such as housing and education facilities; facilitates service delivery and transfer; and is essential for communities' and Canada's socio-economic development. It contributes to connecting First Nations communities physically and digitally to the rest of Canada; facilitating the flow of goods, labour and knowledge from and onto reserve; increasing clean energy production, national and international trade, and access to resource development in the North; and strengthening Canada's Arctic security, while safeguarding lives, health and infrastructure on reserve.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

In 2024-25, the program developed some GBA Plus analysis of overall program impacts and asset-specific impacts and initiated the review of some program tools, which may lead to potential better integration of GBA Plus considerations into program planning and reporting. This work will continue in 2025-26.

Subprogram Context

The program supports First Nations' control over reserve lands through land management and planning. The Framework Agreement on First Nations Land Management (FNLM) enables First Nations to resume jurisdiction over their reserve lands. The Reserve Land and Environment Management Program (RLEMP) helps to build capacity for land management for First Nations under the Indian Act. Land Use Planning (LUP) supports development of community-approved land use plans.

Subprogram Goals

The program promotes democratic decision-making in land management. FNLM land codes require community ratification. LUP ties into goals of leadership, economic participation, and inclusion. Since Budget 2023, RLEMP has improved accessibility with base-level funding, encouraging smaller communities with less land activity to participate.

Focus Population

First Nations on reserve.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

While FNLM is open to all First Nations, regional disparities exist. To date, there are 218 First Nations that are signatories to the Framework Agreement. British Columbia has the highest number of signatories, while the Northern region has the least. There are regional disparities in RLEMP participation, with Saskatchewan leading both in terms of total participants and participants as a percentage. RLEMP capacity building relies on NALMA's Professional Lands Management Certification Program, which reports approximately 66% of all certified land managers are women. LUP is available to all First Nations whether they manage their lands under the Indian Act or pursuant to the Framework Agreement. However, First Nations with small land bases (less than 1000 hectares) are less likely to have a land use plan, and First Nations with fewer economic resources are less likely to implement their land use plans, only modest direct support to implementation activities is provided.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

FNLM benefits members of First Nations communities, particularly individuals living on reserves, by supporting the transfer of services and jurisdiction of reserve lands, environment and natural resources. It also fosters control and efficiency in decision making, increasing economic development opportunities and self-determination. RLEMP supports the internal land management capacity of First Nations, which is fundamental to effective governance and is often seen as prerequisite to sustainable, self-determined environmental and economic activities. LUP helps prevent land-use conflicts, lends stability to long term community planning, and supports the safeguarding of precious natural resources, benefitting all members of the community.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

Subprogram Context

ISC supports the administration and addition of reserve lands, including: developing policies and tools for lands managed pursuant to the Indian Act; implementing the Additions to Reserve (ATR) Policy Directive; providing policy and technical support to streamline ATR processes; enhancing land information systems and land submissions tools; and, registering land instruments and offering guidance on land registration.

Subprogram Goals

Land is a critical asset for First Nations, enabling governance, economic development, and well-being. ATRs help close socioeconomic gaps by providing access to land for economic growth, housing, and infrastructure. First Nations increasingly seek to add urban land to create jobs and generate revenues, reinvesting in cultural and social services for community-wide benefits.

Focus Population

First Nations with reserves and those looking to add, or are in the process of adding, land to their reserve land base.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Community wellbeing is negatively impacted by the lack of reserve land, which limits housing, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. ATRs expand land access, enabling economic development, food security, and housing, particularly for remote communities. This benefits vulnerable groups, including those fleeing abusive relationships, by creating safer housing options and addressing community housing shortages.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

Subprogram Context

The program supports the assessment and remediation of contaminated sites on reserve lands and lands under ISC's responsibility. It addresses human health and environmental risks, ensuring lands are available for community and economic development. The program empowers First Nations to directly manage contaminated sites.

Subprogram Goals

First Nations implement the program through Grants and Contribution funding, which empowers communities to build capacity and advance self-determination. This provides an opportunity for First Nations to prioritize employment and contracting opportunities for Indigenous workers, which can strengthen local capacity and reduce the socio-economic and cultural challenges linked to the use of non-local works, most of whom are men.

Focus Population

First Nations individuals living on reserve lands south of the 60th parallel.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and pregnant individuals, face heightened health risks from contaminated sites. Remote communities experience even greater challenges due to limited resources for remediation, increasing the duration of exposure to environmental hazards. First Nations communities are particularly affected, as reserve lands are limited and income disparities limit their ability to relocate from hazardous areas, emphasizing the necessity of remediation for their well-being. Additionally, remediation projects can stimulate local economies, particularly in sectors like logistics and food services, which may indirectly support employment opportunities for women.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

The program benefits First Nations communities by supporting the assessment and remediation of contaminated sites on reserve lands, which helps to reduce health risks and restore safe, usable land. It empowers communities through funding, technical support, and capacity-building, enabling greater control over environmental decision making and land use. These efforts contribute to long-term community planning, sustainable development, and self-determination. As local knowledge and skills grow, so do economic and employment opportunities. The program's impact extends across all subpopulations on reserve, fostering healthier environments and renewed connections to land and cultural practices.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

Subprogram Context

Since 2016, the program has supported sustainable waste systems through modern infrastructure, training, and partnerships essential for health, safety, and environmental protection. Prior, limited funding left many First Nations without waste management infrastructure, leading to contaminated sites for which the government is responsible.

Subprogram Goals

GBA Plus is not part of the program design. The program conducts outreach to diverse groups, including Elders and youth. It aims to enhance waste management awareness and provide support to low-capacity communities, especially in remote areas.

Focus Population

First Nations individuals on reserve, including self-governing Indigenous Peoples and remote communities.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Groups affected by the program include persons with disabilities, seniors, and people in remote communities. Remote communities experience higher costs for waste management. Men predominantly hold jobs in this sector, but local economic benefits from related industries may indirectly support women and individuals without specialized training.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The program is developing GBA Plus guidelines that will be applied to program development, delivery, and implementation. It has begun to disaggregate some of its indicator data by population and remoteness.

In May 2024, the program and National Advisory Committee's First Nations partners agreed to co-develop a GBA Plus toolkit. The NAC has since decided not to participate in the development of the toolkit but will have an opportunity to review and provide input throughout the process.

Subprogram Context

The program supports communities by providing funding to enhance economic development, land, and environmental capacity, creating conditions for greater participation in the economy.

Subprogram Goals

Communities are supported to achieve greater self-reliance and sustainable economic prosperity through capacity building and investments in community-owned businesses.

Focus Population

First Nations and Inuit communities south of the 60th parallel

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Marginalized groups experience disparities in program outcomes. Impacted groups include low-income individuals, women, youth, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+ people. Underserved communities also face challenges in accessing resources and opportunities.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

The purpose of the community economic programs is to assist First Nation and Inuit communities to develop capacity to participate in regional and national economies, including through the creation of community-owned businesses for essential goods and services. These businesses generate local employment as well as own-source revenue that communities use to fund programs and services for members such as health, social and cultural activities. Investing in community economic capacity strengthens governance of communities and their self-determination.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Future data collection may focus on factors like remoteness and the number of small communities (communities that are very remote and have a population less than 500 people) that were provided funding through the program, or other factors as applicable.

Subprogram Context

The program manages oil and gas resources on First Nation lands, fulfilling Crown obligations and supporting First Nations' self-reliance and economic prosperity. It supports the transition of Crown oversight to First Nations Assertion of Jurisdiction through regulatory development, capacity building, and governance. It helps First Nations advance control of their resources and facilitates industry development, resulting in royalties that community leadership can access for community benefit.

Subprogram Goals

GBA Plus is incorporated into the program's policies, regulations, and legislation. Regulatory improvements co-developed by Indian Oil and Gas Canada and a First Nations Technical committee include diverse community voices and address concerns of women, youth, Elders, and traditional lifestyle followers.

Focus Population

First Nations with oil and gas interests on Reserve lands across Canada.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Oil and gas resources are developed on First Nation lands in the western Canadian sedimentary basin (Alberta, Saskatchewan, northeastern British Columbia). Communities with producing reserves benefit economically, but benefits are not evenly distributed across all First Nations. Revenue from these activities is managed by community leadership. Men dominate the industry, which may limit the inclusion of women and gender-diverse individuals in decision-making processes. Further environmental and conservation regulations are in progress.

People following traditional lifestyles (e.g., hunting, gathering) and youth face environmental impacts. Youth especially will face the long-term consequences of land degradation and climate change. Abandoned leases and infrastructure may disproportionately affect these groups. Current regulatory amendments and reclamation strategies aim to address environmental impacts.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

First Nations directly influence and must approve the development of the oil and gas resources on their reserve. Many producing nations have technical experts on the joint technical committee and co-management board and contribute to the co-development of regulations. Several First Nations have their own band-owned companies, often partnering with other oil and gas companies as joint ventures. This brings additional economic benefit to the Indigenous community. These opportunities are available only to communities with oil and gas resources located under their reserve lands. As a result, not all Indigenous communities benefit from oil and gas revenues or business ventures.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

IOGC ensures measures are taken to protect the environment, monitors for compliance, spill reporting, remediation and reclamation requirements for the timely and satisfactory return of lands contracted for exploitation to the First Nation for their use. The prescriptive nature of the proposed Regulations, provide clear expectations to protect the environment, incorporate traditional environmental knowledge throughout the lifecycle, and help mitigate the potential differential to Canadians based on distributional factors such as gender, age, education, language, geography, culture and income.

By providing more opportunities for First Nations' leadership and communities to be consulted and accommodated, agreements with oil and gas companies would likely better incorporate and address concerns of: environment and water contamination, unintentional complications and accidents during production, noise and air pollution that was identified by community members, including women, elders, youth, 2SLGBTQQI+ peoples and people who follow a traditional lifestyle that relies on the land. The environmental review process requires the oil and gas company to engage with the First Nation and ensure concerns that arise are addressed.

The collection evidence plan will be based on the number of oil and gas contract areas that are returned to the First Nation upon successful remediation and reclamation.

Return of land reduces environmental liability for the government. It also benefits First Nations youth and traditional lifestyle followers because of increased access to land.

Subprogram Context

The program enhances Indigenous participation in large, multi-year economic opportunities. It enables federal partners to coordinate efforts, pool resources, close funding gaps, and leverage external investments. The program also offers a "navigator" service to help Indigenous entrepreneurs access funding not covered by ISC's economic development programs.

Subprogram Goals

Initiatives are designed by regional engagement, allowing communities to express their specific needs. The Terms and Conditions ensure that communities from all distinction groups and regions are eligible. By addressing barriers to economic participation, the program closes socio-economic gaps through job creation, business development, capacity building, and own-source revenue generation.

Focus Population

First Nations, Inuit and Métis; leaders, organizations and communities; small and medium-sized businesses.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

The program is accessible to all Indigenous communities, regardless of distinction, geography, or economic capacity. It has launched 60+large-scale initiatives across Canada, frequently targeting communities with lower economic capacity.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

The subprogram is working with the GBA Plus Responsibility Centre to develop GBA Plus indicators.

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Following an upcoming ten-year evaluation of the program, the Strategic Partnerships Initiative will explore innovating on and revising its performance measurement approaches, including finding new ways to incorporate GBA Plus. Through engagement with ISC's GBA Plus Responsibility Centre and Women and Gender Equality Canada's Indigenous Women's Circle, the initiative will be developing ways to further disaggregate its data collection and leverage its existing data to provide a more fulsome GBA Plus analysis of program impacts going forward.

A new Opportunity Profile Template, which includes GBA Plus indicators, has been developed and shared with the Interdepartmental Working Group for comments. It will be officially launched following that feedback. Although we have a 5% GBA Plus target for FY 2024–25, data collection has not started as we finalize the tool. We plan to begin collecting data in Q3, which will allow us to report on relevant indicators and impacts moving forward.

Subprogram Context

The subprogram leads Indigenous procurement policy on behalf of the federal government. Public Services and Procurement Canada and the Treasury Board Secretariat collaborate to achieve the 5% Indigenous procurement target. The subprogram includes direct responsibility for the Procurement Strategy on Indigenous Business (PSIB) and the Indigenous Business Directory. The Directorate also co-chairs a Co-Development Table with Indigenous partners.

Subprogram Goals

TIPS' work on a transformative procurement policy uses GBA Plus. Through the use of Indigenous Procurement Plans (IPPs), this could include Indigenous-specific bid evaluation criteria focused on employment, training, ownership, or subcontracting to benefit Indigenous businesses. The federal government and Indigenous partners are co-developing a Transformative Indigenous Procurement Strategy.

Focus Population

First Nations; Inuit; Métis.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Given the nature of Government procurement and the size of contracts, larger businesses and organizations tend to benefit more from this program than smaller businesses. TIPS considers this and other barriers to Indigenous entrepreneurs including women, youth, and 2SLGBTQQI+ entrepreneurs and is working with Indigenous partners to develop strategies to mitigate these risks, including through the use of IPPs.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

The program does not currently track GBA Plus-related indicators.

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

As part of the program's policy development process, ISC will explore disaggregated data collection, including by distinction and geography. This may also include data on Indigenous businesses owned by youth, women, and 2SLGBTQI+ folks. As ISC continues to develop an engagement tracking methodology and data strategy, it will seek to incorporate specific recommendations from diverse Indigenous businesses, where possible, distinction-based organizations, and businesses owned by youth, women and 2SLGBTQI+ folks. TIPS incorporates feedback from Indigenous partners and continues to publish more data (e.g., vendor names and postal codes; contract details). To include distinction-based and geographic data, there needs to be significant changes to the Government of Canada's financial reporting system (housed at Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat) and buy-in from federal partners. ISC is continuing to explore such options.

Subprogram Context

The program provides funding to expand and diversify the network of Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and Métis Capital Corporations (MCCs), enhancing access to capital for Indigenous businesses. The program is devolved and the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), through the network of IFIs, along with the MCCs administer the program to Indigenous entrepreneurs. Since 2015, National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) has administered the program. Since 2019, two components have been transferred to MCCs.

Subprogram Goals

The program addresses barriers to accessing capital by providing funding to IFIs and MCCs. It supports small and medium-sized businesses with non-repayable contributions and business services. It also funds lenders to cover borrowing and operational costs.

Focus Population

Indigenous entrepreneurs; Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs); Métis Capital Corporations (MCCs)

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

More men benefit from the program as they are more likely to be entrepreneurs. The Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship (IWE) program targets women. Indigenous entrepreneurs face barriers to accessing capital because of the impacts of colonialism (e.g., lower incomes, remote locations, lack of digital access, and lower financial literacy). These challenges are amplified for entrepreneurs with multiple marginalized identities.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

This devolved program has broadened access to capital for diverse Indigenous businesses, including those owned by youth and women or in remote regions. Partners have reported that streamlined processes and distinctions-based delivery have improved responsiveness to Indigenous capital needs and reduced administrative burden. Data provided by NACCA and other partners illustrates consistently high demand, underscoring the program's role in filling systemic capital gaps. ISC continues to co-develop indicators with partners to better capture impacts across intersecting identity factors, while ensuring reporting remains community-driven and respects self-determination.

Supplementary Information Sources

There is qualitative data available in the form of one page "Role Model Stories" on the NACCA website at Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship. The collection highlights the Indigenous women entrepreneurs going through the IWE process and their stories including elements such as improved lifestyle and increased independence.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

Currently, Indigenous partners collect data disaggregated by binary gender (male/female) and based on age (under and over 35). Because of the most recent evaluation, there are plans to improve data collection as part of modernizing the program. As part of co-development, these plans are being finalized with partners and will be based on available resources.

While available research has provided important information on certain groups of entrepreneurs, there are multiple data gaps on Indigenous entrepreneurs in general. This is especially true for disaggregated data on economic sectors or industries and geographical locations, as well as on the detailed impacts of current financing and training for Indigenous women and youth entrepreneurs. Data is often not disaggregated by distinction. There is no data on Indigenous businesses owned by 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs and the barriers they face accessing business financing. Discussions with partners may lead to data collection that helps address some of these gaps based on their priorities.

Subprogram Context

The program seeks to foster a culture of entrepreneurship, improve access to business opportunities, and enhance the capacity of Indigenous business development organizations and Indigenous businesses.

Subprogram Goals

The program's goals include increasing access to business opportunities by funding projects led by Indigenous organizations that foster entrepreneurship; strengthening the capacity of business support organizations; and, creating economic and employment opportunities to grow the number of viable Indigenous businesses and enhance Indigenous participation in the Canadian economy.

Focus Population

Indigenous Entrepreneurs.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

According to RBC, the number of Indigenous business owners is growing five times faster than among non-Indigenous Canadians.

NACCA's 2020 National Survey on Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs highlights key barriers Indigenous women face in business. Barriers include limited access to capital, financial literacy training, personal confidence, awareness of local resources, and programs tailored to their needs. They also face systemic barriers in male-dominated fields and challenges committing to full-time entrepreneurship. Yet, Indigenous women are starting businesses at twice the rate of non-Indigenous women.

A 2019 report by Global Affairs Canada and the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business found that 50% of Indigenous entrepreneurs are youth. While age correlates positively with business success—35% of successful Indigenous business owners are under 45—youth entrepreneurs still face barriers. Barriers include limited capital, experience, and education, as well as challenges balancing business with other responsibilities. These demographic trends highlight both momentum and persistent gaps.

Qualitative Key Program Impacts

The Access to Business Opportunities (ABO) stream has reduced barriers by clarifying program intent and eligibility through website updates, expanding its scope to include regional and local projects, and revising application forms for a more streamlined process. These changes have made the program more accessible to smaller, community-based organizations, enabling greater participation from local stakeholders. As a result, the ABO stream fosters more direct and tangible benefits for Indigenous entrepreneurs by supporting initiatives that address specific community needs, ultimately producing stronger and more measurable economic outcomes.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

The subprogram is currently working to develop GBA Plus indictors.

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

In 2024, the ABO stream, ISC experts, ad partners collaborated to review and enhance the ABO data collection framework, placing greater emphasis on GBA Plus. Since fiscal year 2024-25, a new collection process has focused on key indicators related to applicants, inquiries, and program performance.

Data gaps remain as the ABO stream does not collect disaggregated data on project outcomes or impacts. These gaps remain because of the nature of funded projects being standalone and tailored to specific organizational needs, each with unique milestones that are not comparable across projects. Consequently, consistent aggregation or demographic analysis is not feasible.

Despite these limitations, the program remains committed to supporting projects that benefit underserved groups, including Indigenous women and youth, and rural or remote communities. It has begun tracking the number of GBA Plus-related projects funded to better reflect inclusivity in program delivery.

Subprogram Context

The subprogram supports operations of First Nations governments and tribal councils, governance capacity building for First Nations and Inuit communities, and First Nations' community development initiatives. It supports the advancement of self-determination and the transfer of departmental responsibilities from Canada to Indigenous organizations.

Subprogram Goals

Band Support Funding is determined by factors including population size, service delivery, remoteness and environment. Governments prioritize their funding, empowering communities to make informed decisions based on priorities. Employee benefits support staff retention. Tribal Council Funding contributes to aggregation of service delivery and capacity development of member First Nations. Professional and Institutional Development supports governance capacity development.

Focus Population

First Nations and Inuit communities.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Funding benefits entire communities. Strong leadership, planning, human resources, data management, and community involvement help facilitate diversity and inclusion initiatives. Core activities, such as elections, reception services, and community-led planning, are expected to positively impact First Nations on and off reserve. Sufficient governance funding increases time for and participation in community engagement and can support childcare, translation, mental health, and Elder assistance.

Funding helps governments improves access to programs and services, as well as mitigates negative impacts on social determinants of health (e.g., employment loss). Existing funding and staffing barriers—rooted in systemic inequities-have constrained some communities' capacity to govern effectively. Longer-term planning and community-based recruitment have shown to be linked to positive outcomes. Continuous support is vital for preventing income reductions in staffing to maintain service delivery in communities. Without sufficient governance capacity funding, barriers to diversity, inclusion, and service access may increase.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

In 2024-25, ISC worked to review and update results measurements for the program. ISC will continue work to explore how data can be collected and analyzed with respect to subgroup and community-level factors in 2025-26.

Subprogram Context

The lead program for the government's legislative and administrative responsibilities for registration, membership, status cards, individual trust moneys, estates and band moneys. It supports the rights of the individual so they can access the services, benefits and programs to which they are entitled.

Subprogram Goals

Indian registration and status card applicants choose between male, female, and X on forms. Other forms will include these options. S-3 amendments extend status to descendants of women denied status (i.e., 270,000 to 450,000 newly entitled persons). Over 68,000 registered who were unable to pass on entitlement can now do so.

Focus Population

First Nations eligible for status.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Individuals in remote areas face challenges accessing in-person services to apply Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS), often relying on mail-in services due to limited digital infrastructure. The Digital Application Service (DAS) has been implemented in all Regional Offices for SCIS applications and will eventually support online applications. Additionally, the number of Trusted Source partnerships has grown to 29, allowing for easier access to registration and SCIS services.

ISC has updated the Dependent Adults Policy Guide to meet current service standards, though significant legislative gaps remain under the Indian Act. The Estates subprogram has also pursued partnerships with Provincial Guardians and Trustees to enhance service levels, aiming to match provincial standards. While this does not fully resolve broader regulatory issues, it offers an immediate improvement in care for dependent adults living on reserves.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The Estates Reporting System tracks information relevant to dependent adults under ISC's jurisdiction. Information includes sex, marital status and residence on/off reserve.

The Indian Registration System and Secure Certificate of Indian Status Web Application collect information on age, sex at birth and province of residence. The program uses life events including birth and marriage to assess how gender has impacted entitlement to registration due to past sex-based inequities under the Indian Act.

Subprogram Context

The grant provides predictable and flexible funding for a variety of core programs.

Subprogram Goals

The Grant provides the flexibility to invest in and plan for services that reflect community priorities. Funding levels are not recalculated annually leading to reduced reporting. The Grant responds to First Nations' need for predictability. Short-term funding is not stable and does not allow for longer-term planning; it limits self-determination.

Focus Population

First Nations.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Smaller and more remote communities have challenges attracting and retaining individuals with the financial expertise needed to help meet the Grant eligibility requirements. The New Fiscal Relationship provides governance capacity supports through the First Nations Financial Management Board to help address disparities. Supports includes remote assistance for financial administration activities and for communities at risk of default. The Indigenous Governance and Capacity Service Area provides funding for Professional and Institutional Development, which is available to support communities interested in the Grant.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

In 2025-26, NFR will report disaggregated results for the following indicators:

• Number of communities certified by the First Nations Financial Management Board.
• Number of First Nations that meet the eligibility requirements of the Grant.
• Percentage of First Nations in the Grant that continue to meet the financial performance criteria set out by the First Nations Financial Management Board.

Additionally, NFR will report on disaggregated outcomes of the grant, starting in 2029. This delay is due to the nature of census data collection.

• Ratio of average percentage increase, from one Census period to the next, of the Community Well-Being Index score for First Nation communities receiving the grant versus non-participating First Nation communities.

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

For many years, there has been significant pressure on the Government of Canada to address and measure socioeconomic gaps, including First Nations wellbeing at the national level. A 2016 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) and Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) called for the design of a new fiscal relationship that moves toward sufficient, predictable, and sustained funding for First Nations, strengthens financial management practices including exploring institutional development, and respects mutual accountability.

The Memorandum of Understanding also included a recommendation that ISC jointly produce options for closing socio-economic gaps, including appropriate metrics and performance indicators. Since then, ISC led five years of engagement, starting in 2019, with First Nations leaders, citizens, data experts, and organizations to explore the concept of an accountability approach (including a possible national outcome-based framework) that could support First Nations-led reporting on socio-economic outcomes. During these engagements, First Nations indicated that a pan-First Nations approach to accountability was inappropriate, that accountability should be defined more broadly and that elements of mutual accountability required further co-development.

Thus, ISC has adapted the national outcome-based framework into a set of resources designed to support First Nations governments as they lead their own outcome-based reporting, based on their own priorities and ways of knowing. These resources are connected to work already underway advancing Indigenous data sovereignty, with any future work needing to be led by First Nations themselves. This approach supports First Nations-led reporting on socioeconomic outcomes, including work already underway supporting Indigenous-led data capacity for effective service delivery and outcome-based reporting to citizens, including the First Nations-led Transformational Approach to Indigenous Data (TAID) and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan (United Nations Declaration Act Action Plan) Shared Priority 30.

The program also worked with ISC's GBA Plus Responsibility Centre and Strategy Results and Data Innovation (SRDI) Branch to understand correlations between Grant eligibility and socioeconomics. The study examined socioeconomic differences between Grant and non-Grant First Nations communities in 2019 and found that the socioeconomic differences were minor. NFR Grant communities tended to be less remote and have slightly better housing conditions. However, they also had slightly higher unemployment rates and slightly lower average household income. There was minimal difference in average population sizes. Similar rigorous GBA Plus analysis of the outcomes/impacts of the grant will be possible at a later date, as this assessment relies on census data.

Subprogram Context

This subprogram provides training and support in the areas of leadership selection process conversion, Electoral Officer training, by-laws training and overall governance support.

Subprogram Goals

The program considers off-reserve members to ensure participation in the leadership process. In-person learning and online training sessions are held in order to include communities with different socioeconomic realities and capacity levels, as well as to provide timely and equal access to anyone who needs or requests it.

Focus Population

First Nations communities and people on and off reserve.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Election and governance frameworks support all communities defined as "bands" pursuant to the Indian Act and First Nations Elections Act, who are not operating within a custom community code or self-government agreement. The program continues to be responsive on provisions of supports and services, such as information sharing and delivering training on by-laws and elections.

The subprogram provides an equal opportunity for First Nations to move away from the Indian Act as they see appropriate. It supports First Nations in their law-making initiatives and consideration of new governance frameworks by continuing to leverage new technologies, improve service delivery, and increase access to training and support.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

At this time, the Band Governance Management System (BGMS) has been updated to include Two-Spirit as an option under gender for elected officials. This will allow for a further disaggregation of data as time goes on.

Subprogram Context

This program supports Statistic Canada's Indigenous Peoples Survey (IPS): demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of First Nations off-reserve and in the North, Inuit, and Métis. It also supports First Nations Information Governance Centre's (FNIGC) First Nations Regional Social Survey (FNRSS): trends in social and economic wellbeing for First Nations children and families on reserves and in select Northern communities.

Subprogram Goals

Program variables that can be disaggregated according to gender include well-being, sense of belonging, housing, physical and mental health, access to services, family and parenting, food security, schooling, labour activity, handcrafting and cultural activities, and language. These can be further disaggregated according to age, region, Indigenous identity, education, and income.

Focus Population

First Nations; Inuit; Métis; rural; urban; Inuit land claims; First Nations communities.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

The program's surveys are a unique source of national culturally driven data that are not available from other sources. The surveys are designed to capture diverse experiences based on Indigenous identity and gender. Results are intended to help Indigenous communities and organizations, federal, provincial and territorial governments, and other interested parties make informed decisions. These decisions relate to employment, education, health, language, income, housing, disability, and First Nations, Inuit and Métis mobility.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The program supports the provision of distinctions-based and culturally relevant data that can be disaggregated according to gender for on- and off-reserve First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. Most variables can be disaggregated according to sex at birth and gender, age, and disability. While the FNIGC is currently developing the variables and questionnaire for the FNRSS, we anticipate that it will be possible to disaggregate all variables according to gender and other relevant variables. FNRSS questionnaire development is monitored by the program through monthly updates provided by FNIGC.

Subprogram Context

The program invests in the development of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis data capacity to support self-determination, improved access to Indigenous data held by the Government of Canada, and service transfer. The initiative will culminate in distinctions-led statistical functions or institutions. Under TAID, Statistics Canada also supports Indigenous co-developed projects for data capacity building.

Subprogram Goals

TAID supports age group, gender and geographic disaggregation. Indigenous Peoples have called on the Government of Canada to support data sovereignty and to improve their visibility in Canada's national statistics. Data must be culturally relevant and robust enough to be disaggregated by multiple intersecting identity factors.

Focus Population

First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and organizations.

Distribution of Benefits

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes

Because First Nations data makes up a high percentage of ISC's data holding, the Department's work on data sharing may disproportionately benefit First Nations.

Statistics Canada's work to improve the visibility of Indigenous Peoples in national statistics will have an overall positive impact on the ability to apply GBA Plus. The work improves the availability of distinctions-based and granular data to support intersectional analysis.

Statistics Canada's work will have less benefit for First Nations living on reserve and, potentially, Inuit in the North. Household surveys are typically not conducted on reserve. Northern coverage is less comprehensive due to high cost and respondent burden.

Disaggregated or Relevant Statistical Data on Program Outcomes

GBA Plus Evidence Collection Plan

The program continues to support Indigenous Delivery Partners to articulate their GBA Plus visions for Indigenous-led, distinctions-based statistical institutions or functions as they develop data strategies and the data capacities they require. It also continues to produce culturally relevant data and research through projects related to data governance that are co-developed by Statistics Canada and Indigenous partners. Moreover, the program sought to increase the visibility of Indigenous Peoples in Canada's national statistics and enabled greater capacity to report on gender and diversity impacts through data collection investments in Statistics Canada's survey ecosystem.

The program facilitates data sharing with external partners through improved internal processes. This includes developing a Policy on External Data Sharing, which is informed by the input gathered in the context of an engagement with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis partners.

More work is needed to measure program impacts in alignment with the priorities and needs of Indigenous Delivery Partners. Key performance indicators will be co-developed with Indigenous Delivery Partners to ensure that measurements accurately reflect partners' project governance structures, as well as the impacts of data sharing at ISC.