Eeyou EcoFund

Established in partnership with the Gouvernement du Québec, the Eeyou EcoFund is financed through the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP).

Each funding stream is aligned with specific provincial initiatives:

• • Nature — Biodiversity protection, conservation, restoration, and stewardship.  
  • Water — Protection, restoration, enhancement, and management of water.  
  • Climate — Climate transition, adaptation, mitigation, capacity-building, knowledge development, and community action. 

Together, the Eeyou EcoFund brings together more than $14 million in funding across Nature, Water, and Climate, including approximately $6 million for Nature (Plan nature 2030), $5.8 million for Water (Plan national de l’eau / Fonds Bleu), and $2.5 million for Climate (PEV). It supports Cree-led projects rooted in Cree values, Traditional Knowledge, and stewardship. Running through 2028, the fund helps protect lands, waters, and wildlife, strengthen resilience to climate change, build community capacity, and support sustainable development for current and future generations. 

• Cree local governments, organizations, and Cree-owned businesses may apply for funding*
• Projects must take place in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region
• Projects must align with provincial targets under the 2030 Nature Plan

*For full eligibility details and exclusions, please see the Application Guide available for download on the Apply for Funding page.

From land-based restoration work and monitoring to community-based workshops and education programs, there are so many ways that you can advance environmental protection!

Examples of desirable project types:

Submission & Review Process:

1. Apply—Submit application form and proposed project budget online
2. Review—Internal review by Support team (check for missing docs/info, etc.);
   Review by Selection Committee;
   Validation by Steering Committee (confirms final details for funding);
   Proponent confirmation and submission of any missing materials within 45 days (permits, letters of support, authorizations etc.)
3. Funds—Agreement is signed and funds are released
4. Project—Proponent executes their unique and brilliant project!
5. Report— Mid-journey and final reporting

The Eeyou EcoFund is governed through two committees operating under a joint Cree Nation Government – Gouvernement du Québec structure. CNG serves as Secretariat for the program and is non-voting. The Selection Committee reviews and evaluates eligible applications and submits recommendations for decision. The Steering Committee provides joint governance and strategic oversight, and confirms project decisions in accordance with the EcoFund’s funding agreements and procedures.