Associate Membership

Associate Membership is perfect for any company or person not associated with an Indigenous Community or community economic organization.

We welcome students, especially those on the path to becoming an EDO.

membership benefits include:

EDO Mentoring Program access for one (1) registered individual
Workshop access for one (1) registered individual
Access to Regional Networking Sessions & Coffee Meetups for one (1) registered individual
Access to Indigenous Community Economic Development Contacts

Potential speaker opportunities at Workshops and the Annual Conference to share insights that support First Nations economic development and the work of EDOs
1 FREE Ticket to our Annual Conference
Access to online tools & recordings of past events
Free monthly email newsletter
Discounts on web advertising opportunities

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

about Associate membership

Who can become an OFNEDA member?

First Nation economic development officers in Ontario
First Nation‑owned businesses and entrepreneurs' operating in Ontario
First Nation communities and economic development corporations in Ontario
Corporate partners and service providers who support Indigenous economic growth

What membership tiers do you offer?

OFNEDA currently offers three membership tiers:

First Nation Community Membership – For First Nations, Tribal Councils, Economic Development Officers (EDOs), and Economic Development Corporations (EDCs).
Associate Membership – For businesses, industry partners, consultants, students, and individuals supporting First Nation economic development.
Entrepreneur Membership – For First Nation entrepreneurs in Ontario who are starting, building, or growing a business.

Each membership tier includes different benefits, networking opportunities, and access levels. Please view the full Membership Comparison Page for a detailed breakdown of eligibility and pricing, or use our quick Find My Plan tool to see which membership is right for you.

What are the benefits of becoming an OFNEDA member?

Training, workshops, and professional development
Networking with 133 First Nations across Ontario
Access to tools, resources, and best practices
Invitations to virtual meetups, roundtables, and conferences

Are associate members allowed to join?

Yes. associate members who support Indigenous economic development - through services, partnerships, or investment - are welcome to join and engage with our network.

What is the term of an OFNEDA membership?

Memberships follow the fiscal year. They begin on April 1 and end on March 31.

How often do you communicate with members?

We communicate with our members through newsletters, our website, e‑blast event alerts, and our social media channels.

I work for a Tribal Council. What membership do I qualify for?

Tribal Councils qualify for the First Nation Community Membership.

I work for a treaty organization. What membership do I qualify for?

Treaty organizations qualify for the First Nation Community Membership.

I work for a business owned by a First Nation. Do I register for the First Nation Community Membership?

No. Businesses operated by First Nations, whether independently, in partnership with other First Nations, or as joint ventures, must register for an Associate Membership.

I am from a First Nation outside of Ontario, but I operate a business within Ontario. What membership should I register for?

You must register for an Associate Membership.

How do I contact OFNEDA for membership questions?

You can reach us through our Contact Form or by reaching out to Monica Lister, Research/Membership Support Specialist at membersupport@ofneda.ca for support with applications, renewals, or partnership inquiries.

Current Members' faq