Many municipalities across Canada are increasingly recognizing the importance of developing climate adaptation strategies to prepare for and build resilience to the impact of our changing Canadian climate. 

This factsheet highlights how integrating an Indigenous lens and Indigenous knowledge into climate strategies can enhance resilience and strengthen environmental strategies, as well as contribute to broader goals related to Reconciliation. Undertaking these efforts ultimately builds more inclusive, respectful and sustainable communities for future generations.

Two-Eyed Seeing approach

The Two-Eyed Seeing approach is a key framework in the Indigenous Resilience Report that integrates Indigenous knowledge systems with Western science. This approach emphasizes using both perspectives—one eye viewing the world through Indigenous ways of knowing and the other through Western science. It creates a balanced, complementary method for addressing complex issues such as climate change, ensuring that neither knowledge system dominates the other, but rather they coexist and enhance decision-making together.

Work is underway across the country

A lack of awareness and understanding of Indigenous knowledge can make it difficult to develop inclusive climate strategies. Through its Indigenous Relations Office, the City of Calgary, AB, is providing its staff and citizens with information and education on Truth and Reconciliation. This initiative that underscores the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives into municipal operations and, includes comprehensive staff training with a focus on developing cultural competency, with the aim of helping to ensure that climate strategies are inclusive and informed by Indigenous knowledge.

Other cities are working to overcome historical distrust through respectful engagement, honouring commitments and demonstrating a genuine willingness to learn. The City of Vancouver, BC’s City of Reconciliation initiative exemplifies how building trust and fostering genuine partnerships with Indigenous communities can create a foundation for meaningful Reconciliation. This initiative is integral to the city’s efforts to embed Reconciliation into the fabric of its governance and community relations.

The NWT Water Stewardship Strategy embraces the Two-Eyed Seeing approach by incorporating both Indigenous knowledge and scientific methods to manage and protect water resources. This strategy values traditional ecological knowledge for its deep-rooted connection to the land and waterways, while also utilizing scientific tools to monitor water quality and flow. Municipalities can learn from this by integrating Indigenous knowledge into their water management practices, fostering collaborative partnerships with local Indigenous communities to enhance stewardship and ensure sustainable resource management.

Understanding Indigenous knowledge systems

Indigenous knowledge systems are deeply holistic, emphasizing the interdependence of all living things and the importance of harmony between nature and humankind. These systems have evolved over generations and offer valuable insights into sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Integrating Indigenous knowledge into municipal planning can support strategies that prioritize long-term ecological health, community well-being and cultural preservation.

Consider these key points when incorporating Indigenous knowledge into your municipal planning:

• Local ecosystems: Indigenous knowledge offers a deep understanding of and insight into local ecosystems, informed by generations of observation and experience.
• Traditional ecological knowledge: Practices such as traditional land management and sustainable resource use, rooted in Indigenous ecological knowledge, promote biodiversity and the health of ecosystems.
• Cultural heritage preservation: Engaging with Indigenous communities enriches planning and helps preserve and honour cultural heritage, ensuring that traditional practices, traditions and knowledge continue to thrive while also enriching the municipality’s cultural fabric.
• Sustainability: Indigenous knowledge emphasizes a long-term ecological balance, focusing on sustainable practices that protect and nurture the environment.
• Resilience: Indigenous strategies, tested and refined over centuries, enhance community resilience by fostering adaptability to environmental changes and challenges.
• Community engagement: Collaborating with Indigenous communities fosters inclusive decision-making and enhances community cohesion.

Indigenous Peoples are applying their knowledge systems and traditional practices to address climate change impacts alongside modern scientific approaches. For example, the BC First Nations Climate Strategy and Action Plan combines Indigenous wisdom with climate data to develop meaningful solutions. Tools like the Climate Atlas of Canada  weave together Indigenous stories, climate science, and community perspectives, fostering adaptation and resilience through a blend of diverse knowledge systems.

Applying an Indigenous-inclusive lens 

Adopting a holistic approach means recognizing the interconnectedness of social, environmental and economic factors, which can lead to more comprehensive planning processes. Such an approach requires meaningful engagement that respects and incorporates Indigenous rights, knowledge and cultural practices. 

Using an Indigenous lens can strengthen municipal planning efforts in several ways, including:

• Holistic perspective: Emphasizing the interconnection of social, environmental and economic systems to create well-rounded and integrated planning solutions.
• Sustainability: Focusing on long-term ecological health and environmental stewardship rooted in Indigenous practices to prioritize the well-being of future generations.
• Cultural respect: Honouring and integrating Indigenous traditions, values and practices into planning processes to foster cultural preservation and mutual respect.
• Collaborative engagement: Encouraging ongoing dialogue, partnership and co-creation with Indigenous communities to ensure their active participation and leadership in decision-making processes.
• Equity and inclusion: Committing to inclusive planning by integrating Indigenous voices, perspectives, and knowledge into all stages of decision-making to promote equity and justice.

Town of Sioux Lookout, Ontario

Lac Seul First Nation, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Municipality of Sioux Lookout, ON, has partnered with Lac Seul First Nation and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug through the Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI) to collaboratively pursue shared economic and community development goals. The partnership focuses on joint planning initiatives, such as the development of a Friendship Accord, which formalizes their commitment to working together. By integrating Indigenous knowledge into land-use and environmental planning, Sioux Lookout is building municipal strategies that are culturally inclusive and sustainable, benefiting both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

Building and maintaining respectful relationships

Municipalities may want to implement the following key steps when working to build and maintain respectful relationships with Indigenous communities:

• Understanding Indigenous neighbours: Take the time to learn about the histories, cultures and knowledge systems of the neighbouring Indigenous communities. Building relationships rooted in mutual understanding helps ensure Indigenous practices and values are respected and integrated into municipal processes.
• Engaging meaningfully: Engagement should start early and continue throughout the project or partnership. Meaningful engagement involves respecting Indigenous protocols and traditions as well as also meeting Indigenous communities where they are, whether that means physically visiting their communities or aligning with their schedules and priorities. This shows genuine respect and commitment.
• Co-developing plans: True collaboration requires Indigenous representation at every stage of planning and decision-making. Indigenous voices must be not just consulted but actively included as co-creators of plans. This fosters a shared sense of ownership and helps to ensure Indigenous knowledge informs sustainable, culturally relevant outcomes.
• Supporting capacity building: Providing resources training, and opportunities that build capacity in Indigenous communities (e.g., technical assistance, educational support, financial resources) can support Indigenous communities to fully participate in and benefit from municipal planning processes.
• Reciprocating knowledge: Respectful relationships are reciprocal. As Indigenous communities share their knowledge and perspectives, municipalities should in turn provide opportunities, resources and support that benefit their Indigenous partners. This ensures a balanced exchange and shows appreciation for Indigenous contributions.

Hiawatha First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Township of Selwyn, Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan, County of Peterborough and Peterborough and Kawarthas Economic Development, ON

The partnership among Hiawatha First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Township of Selwyn, Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan, County of Peterborough and Peterborough and Kawarthas Economic Development, ON, exemplifies a commitment to building respectful relationships by engaging in continuous dialogue and collaboration at every stage. This approach ensures Indigenous voices are integral to decision-making processes. It honours cultural protocols and fosters mutual respect and understanding as joint initiatives are developed.

Measuring success and assessing impact

Measuring success and assessing impact are critical to ensuring that municipal strategies integrating Indigenous knowledge are effective and sustainable. Systematically evaluation provides valuable data that can be used to refine the approach and inform decisions, enhancing community well-being and ecological resilience. 

Municipalities may find the following steps useful when assessing the impact of their strategies and projects:

• Set clear objectives: Begin by defining specific, measurable objectives for the integration of Indigenous knowledge into the strategy or project. The objectives should reflect the desired community outcomes and the principles of Indigenous knowledge systems, in alignment with cultural, environmental and social priorities.
• Use meaningful metrics: Develop and track metrics to assess the extent to which Indigenous knowledge has been integrated into each strategy or project. These could include the extent to which Indigenous values and practices are incorporated into planning, the percentage of municipal staff who complete cultural competency training, and the sustainability and longevity of partnerships with Indigenous communities. These metrics will help gauge the success of municipal efforts and identify areas for improvement.
• Collect and analyze feedback: Regularly gather feedback from stakeholders, including Indigenous partners, community members and municipal staff. This feedback is crucial for understanding the real-world impact of the strategies and making necessary adjustments. Surveys, interviews and community consultations can all be used to capture diverse perspectives.
• Adjust and improve continuously: Use insights from the metrics and feedback to refine the strategies and projects. Continuous improvement is essential to maintaining effective collaboration and ensuring strategies and projects remain responsive to the needs and values of the Indigenous communities and municipalities. Over time, being flexible and adaptive helps build stronger, more resilient partnerships.

Incorporating Indigenous knowledge into municipal planning and climate adaptation strategies is not only a path toward more sustainable and resilient communities but also a critical step in fostering meaningful Reconciliation. Continuous engagement, capacity building and reciprocal relationships are key to achieving these shared goals. By committing to building more inclusive relationships with Indigenous communities, municipalities are better positioned to ensure their efforts are truly impactful and enduring. 

Related resources

• Factsheet: Municipal Reconciliation-Advancing government-to-Nation relationships | The Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Factsheet: Advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in municipal service delivery The Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Indigenous partnerships | The Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Canada’s National Adaptation Strategy: Building Resilient Communities and a Strong Economy | The Government of Canada
• Indigenous Climate Action
• Advancing Indigenous futures with two-eyed seeing

Tanya Tourangeau, a proud Dene woman and founder of Tanya T Consulting | Reconciliation Strategist | Canada provided her expertise as a Reconciliation strategist in the writing of this factsheet, and FCM thanks her for her insights.

Building meaningful relationships between municipalities and First Nation communities can contribute to Reconciliation, enhance the well-being and economic health of communities, and lead to more equitable approaches to governance. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada defines Reconciliation as: 

An ongoing process of establishing and maintaining respectful relationships. A critical part of this process involves repairing damaged trust by making apologies, providing individual and collective reparations, and following through with concrete actions that demonstrate real societal change. 

Despite progress over the past number of years, significant challenges remain in fostering equitable and respectful relationships between municipalities and Indigenous communities. Historical injustices, a lack of genuine consultation and insufficient recognition of Indigenous sovereignty and rights are key obstacles. Each must be addressed to build effective and sustainable government-to-Nation relationships.

This factsheet outlines principles, strategies and examples of successful government-to-Nation relationships, all of which recognize Indigenous communities as equal, sovereign partners. 

Many municipalities are embracing Reconciliation

• The City of Regina, SK, established an Indigenous procurement policy, with a goal of having a minimum of 20 percent of the total value of city procurement contracts being held by Indigenous vendors. Regina’s approach to economic Reconciliation is guided by an Indigenous Procurement Advisory Committee.
• The City of Montreal, QC’s 2020-2025 Strategy for Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples comprises seven objectives, including the development of a government-to-government relationship in city institutions by recognizing Indigenous governments as privileged partners in regional dialogue. The strategy also recognizes Indigenous civil society and its organizations as necessary actors in discussions as well as in the search for solutions and decision-making about urban issues that concern them.
• The City of Edmonton, AB, entered a relationship with Enoch Cree Nation and signed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining their intent to build a new relationship as neighbours. This partnership has led to collaborative efforts in areas such as recreation, land-use planning and public transit, enhancing regional prosperity and community well-being.
• The Commitment to Indigenous Peoples, demonstrated leadership by engaging in meaningful partnerships with local Indigenous communities. This includes joint economic initiatives, cultural events and regular consultation meetings that foster a collaborative and respectful relationship.
• The City of Kenora, ON, has placed its land acknowledgement that it is located on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and Métis at the forefront of its website. Recognizing the historical land base of the Wauzhushk Onigum, Niisaachewan and Washagamis Bay First Nations, shows Kenora’s commitment to Reconciliation and partnership with its Indigenous neighbours.

Building government-to-Nation relationships

Municipalities that wish to advance their relationships with Indigenous communities may wish to consider how the following essential considerations, core principles and structural of partnerships might strengthen their Reconciliation work. 

Essential considerations

• Government-to-Nation relationships must acknowledge Indigenous communities as sovereign partners.
• Successful relationships require genuine consultation, shared decision-making and cultural sensitivity.
• Long-term engagement and continuous collaboration are crucial to sustainable partnerships.

Core principles of Reconciliation

• Respect: Recognizing the inherent value and dignity of Indigenous cultures.
• Recognition: Acknowledging Indigenous rights and sovereignty.
• Partnership: Engaging in meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities.

“Understanding and educating is the biggest part of Truth and Reconciliation. Fighting prejudice. Few people know the contribution that First Nations have made to the development of Canada." 
~Chief Lance Haymond, Kebaowek First Nation
 

Structural partnerships 

• Collaborate with local Indigenous leaders and organizations.
• Form partnerships and coalitions with Indigenous groups.
• Establish municipal Reconciliation committees.
• Set up Indigenous community advisory boards or committees.
• Create informal partnership tables and spaces for discussion and cooperative action

Examples and practical steps to foster Reconciliation efforts 

Educate municipal staff and residents about Indigenous rights and history

The City of Yellowknife, NWT, mandates training for all municipal staff on the history and legacy of residential schools. This helps ensure that city staff are informed about Indigenous histories and the impacts of colonialism, promoting a culture of understanding and respect. Some valuable resources that can foster a deeper understanding and respect for Indigenous rights and history include: 

• University of Alberta Indigenous Canada: A exploring the history and contemporary perspectives of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, from an Indigenous viewpoint. It's a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to broaden their knowledge.
• Reconciliation Saskatoon, Be A ConnectR: Provides opportunities to learn about Indigenous peoples’ past and present experiences. The site offers various paths to start a learning journey.
• Royal Alberta Museum: An extensive collection of resources that includes reading lists, films, documentaries, radio programs, podcasts, Indigenous language apps and other materials. 

Start with respect and understanding to forge and strengthen long-term, sustainable relationships with Indigenous communities

• The Declaration of Mutual Commitment and Friendship: A joint initiative by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres that provides a framework for collaboration between municipalities and Indigenous communities. The declaration emphasizes Reconciliation and sets a provincial and federal standard for meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities in urban and rural areas.
• The Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI): This initiative partners First Nations with neighbouring municipalities to develop relationships and create joint economic development projects. More than 20+ partnerships between First Nations and municipalities have been established since 2013. Each was guided by the “stronger together” approach, and this has been translated into a practical toolkit that offers steps to connect with Indigenous neighbours and collaborating on joint initiatives. 

Engage in inclusive consultation with Indigenous neighbours and residents

The City of Hamilton, ON, has implemented a robust consultation process with Indigenous communities, outlined in its Urban Indigenous Strategy report. The process includes regular meetings and dialogue with Indigenous leaders to ensure their active participation in city planning and development initiatives, reflecting a commitment to ongoing and meaningful engagement. 

The following approaches can build meaningful and inclusive consultation with Indigenous communities:

• Establish regular consultation meetings: Schedule regular meetings with Indigenous leaders and community members to discuss ongoing projects, community needs and potential areas for collaboration. This opens ongoing dialogue and opportunities for active participation in decision-making processes.
• Develop a consultation protocol: Create a written protocol that outlines how consultations will be conducted, including who will be involved, the frequency of meetings and the methods of communication. The protocol should be developed in partnership with Indigenous communities to ensure it meets their needs and expectations.
• Implement community liaison roles: Designate community liaison officers who are responsible for maintaining open lines of communication between the municipality and Indigenous communities. These officers can help facilitate consultations, address concerns and ensure that the voices of Indigenous residents are heard and considered in municipal decisions.

Build capacity on both sides to enable full participation of Indigenous communities in municipal projects

The City of Thunder Bay, ON, has partnered with Fort William First Nation to conduct an Indigenous Economic Impact Analysis. Developed in collaboration with the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission, this initiative aims to assess and enhance the economic contributions of Indigenous communities in the region.

The following capacity-building approaches can contribute to effective and sustainable collaboration:

• Resources and training: Offer resources, training programs and workshops to enhance the skills and knowledge of municipal and Indigenous community members. Edmonton’s Indigenous Relations Office develops community capacity-building projects that include training and workshops focused on topics such as governance, leadership development and project management. It offers technical support and expertise to Indigenous communities to help them participate more fully in municipal projects. Activities can include assistance with infrastructure development, environmental assessments or other technical areas. The City of Vancouver, BC, has partnered with local Indigenous communities to provide technical assistance to develop housing projects, offering expertise in topics such as urban planning, architectural design and construction management. The goal is to support Indigenous-led housing initiatives that meet the needs of Indigenous residents.

Reconciliation action plan

Concrete action is needed to advance Reconciliation efforts and strengthen relationships between municipalities and Indigenous communities. A Reconciliation action plan can be the foundation for this work.

The following questions can be helpful in guiding the development of a municipal Reconciliation action plan.

• Current initiatives: What Reconciliation efforts are currently underway in the municipality?
• New initiatives: What are one or two initiatives that the municipality might commit to right now?
• Steps to implementation: What three steps might the municipality undertake to implement these new initiatives?

Related resources

• Factsheet: Advancing equity, diversity and inclusion in municipal service delivery | The Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Factsheet: Applying an Indigenous inclusion lens to climate adaptation | The Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Understanding and implementing UNDRIP | The Federation of Canadian Municipalities 
• A Municipal Guide to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action | The Alberta Urban Municipalities Association
• Indigenous Engagement Strategic Plan | The University of Regina
• Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action | The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada

Tanya Tourangeau, a proud Dene woman and founder of Tanya T Consulting | Reconciliation Strategist | Canada provided her expertise as a Reconciliation strategist in the writing of this factsheet, and FCM thanks her for her insights.

Considering principles of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) as core aspects of municipal planning and service delivery can increase social cohesion and fairness for all residents. 

This factsheet shares definitions and benefits that can inform local governments who are in the early stages of incorporating EDI principles and considerations into municipal plans. 

What are equity, diversity and inclusion?

Equity is a principle and process that promotes fair conditions for all persons to fully participate in society. In contrast with equality, equity recognizes that while all people have the right to be treated equally, not everyone experiences equal access to resources, opportunities, or benefits. Equity based initiatives, strategies, or considerations address specific needs, barriers, and accommodations to ensure groups have equal access and opportunity to participate in all aspects of society.

Diversity refers to a wide range of qualities and attributes that can apply to a person, a group or a community. These include differences in ability, age, sex, gender identity, language, race, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status and others.

Working effectively with diverse populations means recognizing differences and acknowledging how they shape a person and affect their lived experiences and opportunities. It also means cultivating a culture and practice that values and sees diversity as a strength. 

Inclusion refers to creating, fostering and sustaining systems, practices and conditions that enable people with diverse backgrounds and identities to feel respected, valued and have a sense of belonging. By embracing diversity, inclusion creates fair, equitable, healthy and high-performing organizations and communities, where all individuals feel engaged and motivated, and their contributions are valued. 

While equity, diversity and inclusion are distinct concepts, they are closely related. When they are woven together, more equitable, fair impacts and outcomes are likely to result. 

Why is EDI relevant to municipal service delivery?

Consider a few statistics exploring why incorporating the needs of all residents into municipal planning is necessary. 

• In Toronto, black men are three times more likely to be stopped by police than other racial groups.
• Black women in Canada are three times less likely than their non-racialized counterparts to have access to a family doctor.
• Across Canada, over 50 percent of racialized communities live in neighbourhoods where housing is unaffordable and unsafe.
• During Vancouver’s 2021 heat dome event, the majority of deaths were among people who were elderly, had a disability, lived in poorer neighbourhoods or lived alone. 

How does incorporating EDI into municipal planning benefit communities?

Incorporating EDI principles into municipal planning can:

• Strengthen social cohesion: Promoting EDI principles fosters a sense of belonging for all residents, regardless of their race, ethnicity, ability, sex, gender, background or other factors. This can lead to stronger social cohesion within communities, reduce tensions among communities and promote harmony.
• Improve public services: EDI initiatives can help identify and address disparities in access to public services such as education, healthcare, housing and transportation. By distributing services fairly and equitably and maintaining infrastructure assets to meet the service needs of diverse communities, local governments can enhance the well-being of all residents and create a more just society.
• Increase economic growth: Inclusive policies can stimulate economic growth by tapping into the talents and skills of diverse populations. When individuals feel valued and have equal access to opportunities, they are more likely to contribute to the local economy through entrepreneurship, innovation and productivity.
• Enhance public safety: Addressing discrimination and inequality can contribute to safer communities. For instance, promoting trust and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and marginalized communities can improve public safety outcomes and reduce crime rates.
• Support resilience and adaptation: Inclusive communities tend to be more resilient and better able to adapt to shocks and challenges. Harnessing the collective strength of diverse perspectives and experiences allows communities to better respond to crises, reduce risks and build sustainable futures for all.
• Increase democratic participation: EDI initiatives can increase civic engagement and democratic participation by including and valuing all voices in decision-making. This leads to more representative governance and policies that reflect the needs and priorities of the entire community.
• Reduce legal risk: Implementing EDI initiatives helps local governments comply with laws and regulations, reducing the risk of lawsuits and legal liability associated with discriminatory practices. It can also protect the local government’s reputation and standing within the community.

Related resources

• Factsheet: Applying an Indigenous inclusion lens to climate adaptation | The Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Factsheet: Municipal Reconciliation-Advancing government-to-Nation relationships | The Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Integrating Equity, Diversity and Inclusion into Municipal Climate Action | ‍The Partners for Climate Protection from ICLEI Canada and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities
• Considerations for developing a gender equity and inclusion municipal strategy: Themes and trends from Canadian municipalities | The Federation of Canadian Municipalities

Are you interested in connecting with local leaders, experts and municipal practitioners to learn and share ways in which your community can build long-term climate resilience? Join a Community of Practice (CoP) to gain access expert-led training, peer support, knowledge sharing, and free resources.

Apply Now

Why join a Community of Practice?

By joining a Community of Practice, you can:  

• Access planned group training and professional development opportunities 

• Network with other municipal staff and elected officials who are leading climate adaptation initiatives in their community 

• Exchange knowledge, resources and best practices on climate adaptation topics 

• Learn from climate change, adaptation planning, and Reconciliation subject matter experts   

• Discover new tools, resources, and additional training activities available to support your community’s climate adaptation activities 

How do our Communities of Practice work?

As a member, you’ll gain access to free resources and tools tailored to support your climate adaptation efforts, along with the opportunity to connect with peers from municipalities across Canada. Every two months, join us in virtual sessions led by experts, where you’ll engage in in-depth discussions and peer learning that tackle real-world municipal challenges. Meetings are held in both French and English, ensuring you can participate in the language you’re most comfortable with. 

Which Community of Practice can support you?

The Communities of Practice offers two tailored options to support members at different stages of their climate adaptation journey.

Climate-Ready Plans and Processes Community of Practice 

Ideal for those in the initial stages, focusing on developing climate adaptation strategies, policies and plans. This group will begin meeting March 2025. Read the Terms of Reference. 

Adaptation in Action Community of Practice 

Designed for members actively implementing adaptation projects and looking to refine their approach with insights from peers and experts. This group began meeting February 2025. Read the Terms of Reference. 

Who can join? 

Any municipal staff or elected official who is leading or involved with climate adaptation activities is invited to participate. 

To maintain an active and dynamic membership, we recommend 1-3 members per municipality join the same Community of Practice. Members may also invite additional colleagues to attend individual meetings that focus on their work directly.  

What makes our Communities unique?

Our Communities of Practice offer a space for dedicated municipal professionals to collaborate on climate adaptation and resilience. Our goal is to help each member bring actionable insights and solutions back to their communities.

How to apply

• Review eligibility requirements and program format Climate-Ready Plans and Processes Adaptation in Action.
• Complete and submit the application form.

Note: While we encourage early applications to take advantage of the full year of networking and peer learning, registrations will still be accepted after the mid-term point.

You are welcome to apply for both the Climate-Ready Plans and Processes CoP and the Adaptation in Action CoP.

Apply Now

Questions? 

For questions about our Communities of Practice, please contact: 

Émilie Campbell-Renaud: Adaptation in Action CoP

Sarah MacFord: Climate-Ready Plans and Processes CoP

Are you looking to enhance your municipality's climate adaptation efforts? If you’ve applied for Adaptation in Action funding through the Green Municipal Fund’s Local Leadership for Climate Adaptation initiative, you can benefit from free coaching from climate adaptation experts focused on municipal project development and implementation.

What are coaching services?

Adaptation in Action coaching will empower municipalities with expert guidance, ensuring your climate adaptation projects are effective, equitable and resilient. Tailored coaching is available to help you navigate the complexities of climate adaptation implementation with the latest information and consideration, ensuring your projects are successful and inclusive.

Municipalities of all sizes can access free expert guidance focused on developing your knowledge on the following areas:

• Equity

  • Indigenous Engagement and Reconciliation
  • Anti-Racism, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (AREI)
  • Inclusive Engagement and Community Collaboration

• Management

  •  Project Management, including resource optimization and financial planning

• Technical

  •  Nature-Positive Solutions

Our coaching services aim to deliver up to 10 hours of personalized coaching sessions per municipality, project, or team, tailored to help you navigate and succeed in your climate adaptation projects. 

Benefits of these services:

• Tailored, on-demand expert support  

  • Our coaching services are designed to maximize the impact of your climate adaptation projects by providing personalized support tailored to your community's specific needs. Our goal is to ensure that your projects are effective, equitable, and resilient.

• Expertise you can trust

  • Our coaches are seasoned professionals with extensive experience in key areas of climate adaptation. They bring a deep understanding of the unique challenges municipalities face and are fully equipped to guide you through them.

• Free of charge

  • These services are offered at no cost to participating municipalities. Our priority is to ensure you have access to the resources you need to make a lasting impact.

Who are the coaches?

Below, you'll find detailed information about our expert coaches, their areas of expertise, and how they can support your climate adaptation initiatives.

Who is eligible for coaching? 

Our coaching services are available to municipal applicants of LLCA Adaptation in Action funding, regardless of if your community is awarded funding or not.

How to access these services?

Step 1: Submit your application for Adaptation in Action funding

GMF will select up to 100 municipalities to be eligible for the coaching services, regardless of whether your Adaptation in Action application was successful. To express your interest and provide insights on your needs and project, you'll fill out an online form. This form serves a dual purpose: it signals your interest in coaching services and helps us understand your project’s specific needs.

Step 2: Develop a tailored coaching plan

Based on the needs identified in your project, FCM staff will collaborate with you to co-create a tailored coaching plan. This personalized learning journey may involve one or more coaches, depending on your specific context and needs. The goal is to empower you to bring your project to fruition with the support and expertise you require.

Step 3: Begin your coaching sessions

Your coaching sessions will be scheduled at your convenience, ensuring that you get the support you need when you need it. Sessions will be conducted virtually, providing flexibility for your team.

Step 4: Implement and succeed

With the guidance of your coaches, you’ll be better equipped to implement your project successfully, overcoming challenges and achieving your climate adaptation goals. Throughout your coaching experience and at the end of the coaching sessions, we will seek your feedback to ensure that the experience was valuable and to help us improve our services for future participants.

Cost

Completely Free

The Adaptation in Action Coaching Services are provided at no cost to participating municipalities. Our mission is to empower you to take meaningful climate action without financial barriers.

Time frame

Coaching sessions will be offered between January 2025 and March 2026.

Canadian municipalities are responsible for building and maintaining the infrastructure that provides essential services to residents and businesses. To deliver services consistently and reliably, local governments must proactively manage their assets, as a reactive approach to repairing and replacing infrastructure can lead to higher overall costs and lapses in service delivery. A long-term financial plan can help your organization shift from reactive to proactive asset management.

Below you will find:

• Resources that describe the benefits of long-term financial planning for municipal asset management
• Tools to help you develop effective long-term financial strategies for funding infrastructure services
• Guidance on embedding levels of service, lifecycle costing, generational equity and climate resilience into long-term financial planning

Video: The benefits of long-term financial planning 

From minimizing asset lifecycle costs to managing the financial impacts of climate change, long-term financial planning can help you meet community needs today and in the future. This video explores these benefits and more alongside key examples.

Read the transcript.

Tools for developing a long-term financial plan for asset management

Are you ready to take the next step on your long-term financial planning journey? Use this suite of tools.

How levels of service and lifecycle costing inform long-term financial planning

In this guide, you’ll learn how levels of service and lifecycle costing inform long-term financial planning, and some ways that social equity and climate resilience goals can be embedded into this process. You’ll find tips, strategies, and examples that shed light on what contributes to an effective long-term financial plan for asset management.

Read the guide.

Guides, templates, tools and more to help you write your own long-term financial plan

The following tools were developed by Asset Management BC (AMBC) in collaboration with the Union of BC Municipalities and the BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs.

By identifying and establishing long-term financial goals, your community can lower ongoing asset maintenance costs while effectively funding community infrastructure and service delivery. However, drafting a plan without prior experience can be a challenging process. 

To help municipal practitioners get started with long-term financial planning, or to help more experienced staff sharpen their skills, AMBC has developed a guide, a customizable template, an Excel tool and a slide presentation. These resources were developed for a broad audience and can help you write a long-term financial plan, compile data and make calculations, summarize and present your plan, and more. 

Access the tools today. 

A neighbourhood in Markham, Ontario, will be the first net-zero community in Canada to connect all of its houses to a geothermal energy system, a major step toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. It’s just one of many innovative projects supported by GMF as we empower Canadian municipalities to take bold steps in addressing climate change, fostering resilience, and advancing sustainability.  

In 2023-24, GMF had our most impactful year yet, as we invested nearly $200 million in local projects and secured more than $820 million in new funding. We’re helping communities across Canada access funding, knowledge and capacity to face the diverse challenges of climate change and environmental sustainability by undertaking innovative, scalable projects that make a real difference. 

Explore GMF’s 2023-24 Annual Report