The British Columbia Economic Partnerships Initiative (BCEPI) was established in 2000-2001 as a way to leverage provincial funding and enable both levels of governments to jointly fund First Nations economic development projects in BC. Through the British Columbia Economic Partnerships Initiative, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) partners with the Province of British Columbia to fund First Nations economic development projects. The partnership between the Government of Canada and the Province of BC supports collaborative approaches with First Nations, which results in increased certainty and economic benefits for all of British Columbia.

Working together is key to increased economic development. Experience shows that partnerships between First Nations, the private sector and government are achieving progress in many areas which are important to stimulating economic growth. As such, BCEPI enhances existing INAC economic development programs by fostering partnerships with the private sector and allowing First Nations to respond to business opportunities, particularly in the resources sector. Through BCEPI, First Nations receive the support needed to start new businesses, create jobs, build partnerships and attract additional resources from the private sector.

The Government of Canada has increased its support for Aboriginal economic development in recognition of growing opportunities and the strong initiative being shown by First Nations across Canada. Aboriginal entrepreneurship is growing at twice the rate of the national average, and there are now over 20,000 Aboriginal businesses across Canada.

INAC has invested $11 million to support 88 projects in British Columbia since April 2002, $2.7 million of which has been through the British Columbia Economic Partnerships Initiative.

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