October 24, 2025 Winnipeg, Manitoba Natural Resources Canada
The Government of Canada is taking action to strengthen the forest sectors of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta by putting Indigenous leadership and participation at the forefront of a more sustainable, inclusive and competitive future.
Today, the Honourable Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs, on behalf of the Honourable Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, announced over $5.4 million for 28 projects across the Prairies that will accelerate Indigenous participation and leadership in the forest sector, create good jobs and promote the use of wood-based products in construction.
The announcement includes an investment of $1 million for the Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn project led by the Southern Chiefs' Organization Inc. The project will repurpose the iconic Hudson's Bay heritage building at 450 Portage Avenue in old downtown Winnipeg into an innovative, multi-use facility that will include affordable residential units, offices and commercial space to foster First Nations entrepreneurship. Funding provided through Natural Resources Canada's Green Construction Through Wood program will support the design, engineering and construction of a six-storey atrium roof system for the facility using Canadian mass timber solutions.
The funding announced today builds on Prime Minister Mark Carney's August 5 announcement of $500 million to make Canada's forest sector more competitive in the long term, including support for Indigenous-led business development.
The Government of Canada stands with the forest sector and the hardworking people who depend on it. The investments announced today will drive leadership, innovation and sustainable practices, emphasizing the essential role of Indigenous knowledge and stewardship in shaping a resilient economy.
