First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund — Equity Funding
Highlights
The First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund (FNCEBF) is a unique opportunity for your business to thrive in the clean energy sector. This program offers Capacity Funding of up to $50,000 to help you conduct feasibility studies, plan community energy projects, and engage with project proponents. Additionally, Equity Funding of up to $500,000 is available to support financially viable clean energy projects, covering essential tasks like business planning, permitting, and construction.
Key Benefits:
- Capacity Funding: Up to $50,000 for feasibility studies and community energy planning.
- Equity Funding: Up to $500,000 for financially viable clean energy projects.
- Revenue Sharing: Earn a share of provincial water and land rentals from clean energy projects impacting your territory.
Applying for this program can provide the financial support and resources needed to advance your clean energy initiatives. The application process is straightforward, and the funding can significantly boost your project's success. Don't miss this chance to enhance your business and contribute to sustainable energy development.
Financing Details
Type of Financing:
- Capacity Funding: This is a grant.
- Equity Funding: This is a grant.
- Revenue Sharing: This is a revenue sharing agreement.
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- Capacity Funding: No repayment required.
- Equity Funding: No repayment required.
- Revenue Sharing: No repayment required; funds are shared based on revenue generated from clean energy projects.
Eligible Expenses:
Capacity Funding:
- Feasibility studies
- Community energy planning
- Engagement with project proponents
- Financial analysis of potential projects
Equity Funding:
- Business plan development
- Permitting
- Financing arrangements
- Interconnection agreements
- Major equipment orders
- Construction commencement
- Final design and commissioning
Use of Funds:
- Capacity Funding: Funds can be used for project feasibility and planning activities.
- Equity Funding: Funds can be used for project development and implementation activities.
- Revenue Sharing: Funds are shared based on provincial resource rents from clean energy projects.
Restrictions on Use of Funds:
- Capacity Funding: Funds cannot be used for ongoing operational costs or non-energy-related projects.
- Equity Funding: Funds cannot be used for projects without an Energy Purchase Agreement.
- Revenue Sharing: Funds are restricted to clean energy projects impacting the applicant's territory.
Fees:
- There are no fees associated with Capacity Funding, Equity Funding, or Revenue Sharing agreements.
Qualifications
- Must be an Indigenous community in British Columbia.
- Must fall into one of the following categories:
- A First Nation “band” as defined by the Indian Act (Canada).
- An Indigenous governing body, however organized and established by Indigenous peoples.
The proposed project must be located in British Columbia.
Disqualifications:
- Applicants not classified as Indigenous communities.
- Projects located outside British Columbia.
Description
The program offers your business a chance to receive funding to support clean energy projects. You can get up to $50,000 for feasibility studies, community energy planning, or engaging with project proponents. This money helps you analyze potential projects and understand their financial aspects before making any commitments.
If your business is ready to move forward with a clean energy project, you can apply for up to $500,000 in equity funding. This can be used for various project needs like business planning, permitting, financing, and even starting construction. This significant amount can help ensure your project is well-resourced and financially viable.
Additionally, the program includes revenue sharing agreements. If your clean energy project involves provincial land or water rentals, you can benefit from a share of the revenues generated. You can receive 37.5% of the rentals from your project, providing a steady income stream as long as the project operates. This can be a valuable financial boost for your business.
Program Steps
Download the Application Worksheet: Obtain the FNCEBF Clean Energy Capacity Funding Application or the FNCEBF Clean Energy Equity Funding Application from the official website.
Prepare Necessary Documentation: Gather the following documents to support your application:
- Business plan
- Financial statements
- Community Energy Planning (CEP) template (if applicable)
- Details of intended use of funds (e.g., quotes for equipment, feasibility studies)
- Any relevant permits or agreements (e.g., Energy Purchase Agreement, interconnection agreement)
Complete the Application Worksheet: Fill out the application worksheet thoroughly, ensuring all sections are completed accurately. This includes providing detailed information about your proposed project and its potential impact.
Review Funding Guidelines: Carefully review the guidelines for the First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund to ensure your application aligns with the funding requirements and objectives.
Submit the Application: Email your completed application worksheet and supporting documents to [email protected] by the deadline of April 30, 2024.
Follow Up: After submission, monitor your email for any communication from the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. They may request additional information or clarification.
Await Approval: The Ministry will review your application. If approved, they will contact you to discuss the next steps, including any agreements or funding disbursement details.
