Canada’s National Biodiversity Strategy notes that there is no path to achieving its 2030 targets without the expertise and leadership of First Nations, Inuit, and the Metis Nation and states that transformative change must centre bold, Indigenous-led measures.  

One powerful opportunity for transformative change at this scale are the four Indigenous-led Project Finance for Permanence (PFP) initiatives that are being pursued in different regions of Canada. These PFPs centre Indigenous leadership in conservation and stewardship and are working to foster public-private conservation finance partnerships in support of the diverse visions of Indigenous governments in each region. 

At COP15 in Montreal, Canada’s Prime Minister announced investments of $800 million into this innovative model. COP16 provides an opportunity to reflect on the significant progress and momentum since that announcement.  

This expert panel discussion will be co-led by the Indigenous Leadership Initiative and Canada, Indigenous PFP proponents, and Enduring Earth. 

It will contribute directly to key COP16 themes and priorities, including conservation of biological diversity, implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, climate change, Indigenous knowledge, and conservation finance. 

This high-level 2-hour panel would include presentations by 4-5 speakers, as well as a moderated question and answer session.