First Nations Financial Management & Governance Systems

Workshop goals & topics

Good governance provides the foundation for effective financial stewardship and sustainable economic development.

AFOA BC has designed a workshop for First Nation Chiefs, councillors, financial managers and Band administrators that examines the relationship between good governance and financial management. The two-day program uses open space technology, an approach that works well for First Nations groups: everyone sits in a circle to discuss issues, identify solutions, determine priorities and set goals. Participants will learn about:

·       Effective systems – Discover tools, successful models and best practices for good governance and financial management for First Nations as self-governing bodies

·       Present and past – Explore the history and current issues affecting good governance among First Nations

·       Roles and responsibilities – Find out about the duty of First Nations leadership and employees to achieve good governance and effective financial management to benefit the community

·       Essential elements – Examine the importance of developing a constitution and financial/administrative/conflict of interest policies; and of obtaining certification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), which sets accredited standards for quality management and decision making

·       Accountability – Learn how to increase accountability, transparency and communications in fiscal management, through a case study of the Skeetchestn Rental Housing Policy

·       Case study – Review financial management and governance changes that enabled the Membertou First Nation in Nova Scotia to transition from a significant operating debt to financial success in a relatively short time

Who should attend?

·      First Nations leaders

·      First Nations financial managers

·      First Nations Band administrators

·      First Nations managers and employees

To arrange a workshop or for more information:

Contact Darlene Glaim, AFOA BC Training Coordinator, at 604.925.6370 or edcoordinator@afoabc.org