First Nation Community Membership

$750 /year

Due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, we are slowly increasing our fees to pre-pandemic pricing.

The First Nation Community Membership is for First Nations EDO's, EDC's & Tribal Councils;  Economic Development Professionals representing a First Nation community or community economic organization.

membership benefits include:

  • Registration up to two (2) Economic Development Professionals within the organization

  • Complimentary CANDO Membership

  • Voting privileges for the Community at OFNEDA’s AGM.

  • EDO Mentoring Program access for both registered individuals

  • Access to all Entrepreneur Membership resources & events

  • Membership Portal & Workshop access for both registered individuals

  • Access to Regional Networking Sessions & Coffee Meetups +unlimited guest access

  • 1 FREE Ticket to our Annual Conference + travel coverage

  • Access to online tools & recordings of past events

  • Free monthly email newsletter

  • *Travel coverage is available and per-community limits apply.

Join the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) Network: Exclusive Offer for First Nations
EDCO and OFNEDA are working together to strengthen partnerships and support inclusive economic growth across Ontario. As part of this collaboration, EDCO has introduced a new First Nation Community Membership , ensuring equitable access to professional development, networking, and collaboration opportunities.

This dedicated membership tier supports deeper engagement and amplifies First Nations economic leadership across the province. First Nations members can also access a discounted EDCO Membership. When registering on the EDCO website, enter  OFNEDA26 at the payment screen to receive a $250 discount, reducing the first‑year fee to $100 + HST.

‍JOIN EDCO NOW

Sign up today!

Due to ongoing COVID-19 impacts, we are slowly increasing our membership dues to pre-pandemic rates.
‍ Click here to sign up for EDCO's membership.

$1000

$750 /year

REGISTER NOW

What can you do with your complimentary CANDO membership?

  • Discount registration at the Cando Annual National Conference & AGM
  • Subscription to Cando Connect Magazine & weekly e-newsletter.
  • Access to the Certified Aboriginal Economic Developer Process.
  • Discount subscription to Cando’s Journal of Aboriginal Economic Development, the only journal of it’s kind in Canada.
  • Opportunity to advertise events, employment opportunities & services through Cando’s extensive nation-wide network.
  • Voting privileges at Cando’s national and regional meetings (Full Members only).
  • Access to regular training and skill development opportunities.
see the full list at edo.ca

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

about First nation 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
© 2026 Ontario First Nations Economic Developers Association. All rights reserved.