2025 Federal Budget Impacts on First Nations: Key Funding Changes and Policy Measures – Woodward & Company LLP

November 26, 2025

On November 4, 2025, the Government of Canada released the Federal Budget.

Many First Nations leaders have expressed disappointment with the Budget, since it does not commit to closing the infrastructure gap, includes no new investments for social services on reserve, and includes cuts to federal Indigenous programming. Assembly of First Nations National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak, for example, has said the Budget is a “missed opportunity.”

The Budget does include some positive spending for First Nations, either in new proposed spending or by highlighting investments that have already been announced. It proposes some new infrastructure spending (i.e., for water and wastewater on reserve), as well as access to capital and engagement for major projects. Our clients will also be keenly watching details relating to the Major Projects Office, which could be the vehicle to push fast-moving resource development proposals in their territories. While the Budget doesn’t include new funding announcements relating to its rapid resource development and major project strategy, it does give some detail on what the government’s next moves may be on these fronts, including the Ring of Fire.

Read More: https://www.woodwardandcompany.com/news/2025-federal-budget-impacts-on-first-nations/