Looking for support for your food-based project? If you’re a First Nations household or individual in Northern Ontario, your food self-determination project may qualify for a Gaagige Zaagibigaa (GZ) incentives!

How It Works

Step 1

Have a Plan

Make sure the funds we’re providing align with your project plan, and if anything doesn’t quite match up or goes off track, don’t hesitate to reach out and inform us. We’re here to help you adjust your goals if needed.

A jar of Gaagige Zaagibigaa strawberry jam.
Jars of jam and preserved plants.

Step 2

Stay Connected

Stay connected by keeping the conversation flowing about your project, sharing both the highlights and the challenges you encounter. Whether it’s through pictures, videos, or stories, sharing your journey helps us all learn together.

Step 3

Learn As We Grow (GO)

Our approach revolves around open collaboration, emphasizing transparency and respect as we work together towards achieving your goals. We’re not just here to offer support; we’re in this together, learning as we go.

A plate of traditional foods like blueberries and manoomin.
Pieces of bannock frying in a pan.

Step 4

Share Your Story

We’re committed to providing financial support for your project and showcasing it through visual storytelling if you’re up for it. Your story matters to us, and we’re here to help amplify it.

Step 5

Provide Feedback

Your input is invaluable to us. Whether you have thoughts, questions, or feedback, we’re all ears and dedicated to improving our support to you, your household and community.

Some of the sights of a meal of tea and bannock: a teacup, a plate of bannock spread with jam, and an iconic Corningware teapot.

Ready to Start?

Apply for GZ’s Self Determination Household Support Program:

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

Our SDHSP is offered twice a year, with granting cycles opening in September and March. The September round supports food-based activities aligned with the seasonal activities of Biboon (winter) and Ziigwan (spring). The March round focuses on activities for Niibin (summer) and Daagwagin (fall).

Funding is open to First Nations individuals, households and communities throughout Northern Ontario.

You must be First Nations currently living in Northern Ontario to apply.

To address the recent increase in false claims of First Nations identity, we now require applicants to submit proof of First Nations identity. This can be a photo of your status card or if you do not have status, please upload a letter from your First Nation or community, or a reference letter from someone in community who can confirm your connection and efforts to reconnect.

If you are not First Nations but have First Nations family members who are and want to support their journey towards self-determination, you can apply on their behalf providing the same information as above.

Still Not Sure If You Are Eligible?

At GZ, we strive to meet individuals where they are at, understanding that applications can be intimidating and rooted in colonial processes.

Our staff assists through text, phone, video, and sometimes in-person visits. We aim to make support funds accessible to all, creating equal opportunities. Reach out to us; we’re here to help you succeed in your visions of self-determination.

A cornstalk with a cob just starting to grow.