Welcome to the Indigenous Innovation Initiative
Waaciye, Ahniin, Haawa, Tansi, Tawnshi, She:kon, Kwei, Kwe’, Atelihai, Tshinishkumitnau, Ainngai, Edlanet’e Oki, Bonjour, Hello!
Our goal is to empower First Nation, Inuit and Métis innovators and communities to identify and solve their own challenges, transform lives and drive inclusive growth, wellbeing and cultural revitalization through innovation.
A fresh start for the Indigenous Innovation Initiative
With the changing of the seasons this month, the Indigenous Innovation Initiative (I3) is also entering a period of transformation.
As of March 31, 2026, I3 is beginning the next chapter of its journey toward self-determination as an independent, Indigenous-led organization and is concluding its incubation period with Grand Challenges Canada.
This transition marks an important milestone in the Initiative's evolution. Moving forward as an independent organization allows I3 to deepen its commitment to Indigenous leadership and to continue developing an innovation ecosystem grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems, community priorities, and self-determination.
Our vision is to improve all life through Indigenous innovation.
We support innovative and scalable Indigenous-led ideas for impact, investing in communities to solve complex health, social and economic challenges. Indigenous innovation is a new idea, program, product or service, or the clever modification of a current program, product or service, that is either designed, developed or invented, in whole or in part, by or for Indigenous Peoples and their communities.
Our work is deeply rooted in First Nation, Inuit and Métis values, principles, and ways of knowing and being. These elements inform our policies, procedures, and how we collect and use Indigenous Knowledges and data for meaningful impact.
Built for impact
Launched in 2019, the Indigenous Innovation Initiative (I3) was created to uplift Indigenous-led ideas by providing funding, tools, and relationships to help them thrive.
With over 330 applications, 22 seed innovations, and 3 transition-to-scale innovations funded in over 70 communities across Turtle Island, I3 is rooted in culture, driven by healing, and guided by traditional knowledge.
Meet the innovators
Meet the innovative First Nation, Inuit and Metis businesses and social enterprises from across Canada’s urban, rural, remote and Northern communities.
Our Round 2 funding call includes innovators whose solutions address land story, food sovereignty (agriculture), wellness and tech.
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