Our Work Explore the infrastructure needs of First Nations in Canada.
In 2023, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) collaborated with industry experts and over 400 First Nations to co-develop a landmark report with Indigenous Services Canada titled “Closing the Infrastructure Gap by 2030: A Collaborative and Comprehensive Cost Estimate Identifying the Infrastructure Investment Needs of First Nations in Canada“.
This unique and groundbreaking report estimated the national capital and operational investments needed from the Government of Canada to fulfill its mandate to Close the First Nation Infrastructure Gap by 2030. This was a crucial and urgent step towards achieving economic reconciliation between First Nations and the Government of Canada.
With the 2030 deadline rapidly approaching, the AFN has updated the cost estimate to a 10-year forecast based on more recent escalation factors to inform federal budget decision-making and ensure that closing the First Nations infrastructure gap remains a federal priority.
The lack of access to vital infrastructure, such as housing, education, healthcare, connectivity, and other essential services, has perpetuated deep-rooted inequality across
First Nations communities. This disparity becomes even more apparent when comparing the housing and community infrastructure services consistently available to many Canadians.
FAQs
What is the First Nations infrastructure gap?
First Nations lack the essential infrastructure — housing, clean water, schools, healthcare, and roads — available to most Canadians. The gap is the estimated $376.1 billion investment needed to close these disparities in the next ten years.
How has the First Nations infrastructure gap grown?
In 2023, the AFN and Indigenous Services Canada released the Closing the Infrastructure Gap by 2030 Report, which estimated the cost of closing the gap by 2030 to be $349.2 billion. That estimate has increased to $376.1 billion, based on the inflationary factors while accounting for Government of Canada spending over that period.
Why does this gap exist?
Decades of underfunding and inequitable resource distribution have left First Nations communities without the infrastructure needed to thrive.
What will it take to close the gap?
Significant, sustained investments from the federal government in housing, water systems, education, healthcare, and connectivity.
What is the Benefits for All Canadians report?
A study with the Conference Board of Canada (now Signal49) showing that closing the gap is an economic opportunity — generating $635B in output, 2.4M jobs over the next seven years, and $87B in government revenue.
How does closing the gap benefit Canada?
It strengthens the economy, creates jobs, improves public services, and advances reconciliation. Every $1 invested returns $1.82 in benefits.
What happens if we delay?
Continuing with current levels of funding and proposal-based policies will perpetuate a growing gap leading to increased costs through emergency repairs, failing assets, and emergency evacuations. Since 2023, the gap has already increased by $25 billion over three years of delayed action, due largely to the increasing costs of construction in Canada.
How can I support this?
Demand action from policymakers and support investment in First Nations infrastructure — it’s an investment in Canada’s future.
Testimonial
Bell Canada
Bell Canada fully supports the Assembly of First Nations’ goal of closing the digital infrastructure gap. Together with the AFN, we call upon all levels of government to support continued investment in critical network connectivity to First Nation communities.
Robert Malcolmson, EVP & Chief Legal and Regulatory Officer, BCE