First Nations Communities Fundraising Consulting
Collaborating with First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities for transformational fundraising
Through trust and understanding, impact can be achieved for generations
First Nations communities across Canada are leading initiatives to strengthen their Nations, preserve language and culture, advance education, and create opportunities for future generations. Securing the resources to support these priorities often requires navigating complex funding environments and building long-term partnerships.
At Global Philanthropic Canada, we recognize that every First Nation has its own history, governance, values, and vision. Our role is to listen, understand your priorities, and provide experienced fundraising guidance that supports your Nation’s goals and self-determination.
A Collaborative approach grounded in respect and relationships
With Senior Consultants across Canada, Global Philanthropic Canada brings extensive expertise in philanthropy, strategic fundraising, and organizational development. Our consultants average 28 years of fundraising leadership experience and have collectively helped organizations raise more than $8 billion. Our work spans Indigenous organizations, healthcare, education, social services, and community development, providing valuable insight into diverse funding opportunities and challenges.
We believe partnerships with First Nations must respect community knowledge, cultural protocols, and local decision-making. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, we work alongside Chief and Council, administrative leadership, and community teams to develop strategies reflecting each Nation’s priorities. Each engagement is tailored to your community needs goals. This is not a complete list, but often the starting point for deepening impact roots:
- Board development and governance consulting to insure a truly impactful board that is representative of your community and mission.
- Major gift development to build the structure, strategy and momentum needed to raise more.
- Prospect research to save time, fundraiser smarter, and create robust lists with deeper insights.
- Strategic planning to turn your vision into action with everyone in your community on board.
First Nation Clients
Indigenous-centred Clients
Akpik Theatre
BC Indigenous Housing Society
First Nations Education Foundation
First Nations University of Canada
Foundation for the Advancement of Mi’kmaw Education
Indigenous Languages Totem
Kanatahkwèn:ke Cultural and Community Centre
Mother Teresa Middle School
Northlands College
Uquutaq Society
Ya’ thi Néné Lands and Resources
Historic Indigenous Clients
Cote First Nation
James Smith Indian Band
Kahkawistahaw First Nation
Kitsaki Wild Rice Processors
La Ronge Indian Band
Ochapowace First Nation
Sakimay First Nation
White Bear First Nation
Get to know our First Nations communities fundraising specialists
Chantale Lavoie, special advisor
With over 25 years in the Indigenous sector, Chantale is a seasoned bilingual (French and English) fundraising expert who has a special love of the arts in all its forms. She has supported the creation of endowments, managed large investment portfolios, and supported legacy giving.
Corrie Fortner, CFRE, special advisor
Corrie has been supporting Indigenous-lead initiatives for over 35 years. She has supported a wide range of mission-driven organizations across Canada, including those serving rural and grassroots communities. Her work is grounded in strategic planning, collaborative leadership, and a strong commitment to equity and impact.
Richard Walker, special advisor
Richard is a seasoned fundraising, business development and project management consultant, a professional planner and frequent speaker and presenter, both nationally and internationally for over 30 years.
He is Vice-Chair of the Global Board of Directors and member of the Board of the Canadian Institute of Planners – Planning Student Trust Fund (CIP-PSTF).
Leslie Bais, MBA, special advisor