This workshop focuses on the practical funding pathways and financing tools available to support First Nations-led clean energy projects in rural and remote communities. As Nations continue to advance renewable energy, storage, and microgrid systems tailored to their own needs, understanding how to access capital, navigate program requirements, and design bankable projects remains essential.
The session will be moderated by Trent Moraes, Deputy Chief Councillor of the Skidegate Band Council, who brings extensive experience supporting community-driven energy planning and project development. Trent will guide a conversation on the opportunities, challenges, and lessons emerging across British Columbia as more Nations seek to lead their own clean energy transitions.
The panel will include Katya McClintock, Director of Clean Energy at the New Relationship Trust, who will share insights on funding streams and Nation-focused supports; Arthur Bledsoe, Senior Analyst at the Pembina Institute, who will speak to policy, program access, and capacity considerations; Justin Lok, Director of Investments at the Canada Infrastructure Bank, who will outline financing tools available to Indigenous communities; Stuart Simpson, Senior Project Manager at the Taku Group, who brings perspective on project development in remote areas; and James Griffiths, Clean Energy Development Specialist at Sunspear Microgrid, who will share on-the- ground experience with community-led microgrid and distributed energy projects.
Together, this panel will offer practical guidance for Nations and partners seeking to advance clean energy projects in rural and remote regions, with a focus on capital access, project readiness, and long-term community benefit.