About the EcoFund

Detail on the first active phase of the EcoFund: biodiversity and nature protection.

The Cree-Led EcoFund is a long-term initiative that empowers Cree communities, organizations, and businesses to lead environmental action across Eeyou Istchee. Developed in partnership with the Government of Québec, the fund supports projects that protect nature, safeguard water, and strengthen climate resilience—rooted in Cree values, Traditional Knowledge, and community leadership.

Navigation

Please use the quick links to navigate the page

Our Vision

To build a sustainable future for Eeyou Istchee through Cree-led stewardship of the land, water, and climate.

What We Do

The EcoFund supports local projects that:

  • Conserve biodiversity and ecosystems

  • Protect water sources and aquatic health

  • Help communities adapt to climate change

It brings together three major Québec initiatives under one Cree-led funding platform:

Our Goals

  • Support Community Action
    Provide direct support for locally driven projects in nature, water, and climate.

  • Strengthen Cree Leadership
    Increase access to funding, tools, and capacity for Cree governments, entities, and enterprises.

  • Grow Impact Through Partnerships
    Expand co-investment opportunities and regional collaboration.

  • Uphold Cree Values
    Ensure all aspects of the fund reflect Cree governance, knowledge, and policy alignment.

  • Build Long-Term Capacity
    Support knowledge sharing and capacity building to grow environmental leadership across Eeyou Istchee.

Focus Areas

The EcoFund is organized into three key areas of investment:

  1. Nature Conservation
    Projects that restore ecosystems, protect species, and support land-based cultural practices.

  2. Water Protection
    Initiatives to improve watershed health, monitor water quality, and support local water governance.

  3. Climate Adaptation
    Community-driven efforts to build resilience against flooding, erosion, and climate-related risks.

Governance Structure

The EcoFund is guided by a Cree-led governance model:

  • Selection Committee
    6 Cree Nation Government members + 1 Québec observer

  • Joint Steering Committee
    4 Cree Nation Government + 6 Québec representatives (MELCCFP)

Cree Nation Government members include representatives from the Department of Environment and Remedial Works (DERW), Department of Commerce and Industry (DCI), and Cree Wildlife Services (CWS).