April 24, 2023 – Ottawa has opened the call for proposals for the Zero-Emission Vehicle Awareness Initiative (ZEVAI)—a pilot that will fund Indigenous-led awareness and education projects “that help increase knowledge and confidence” in electric and low-emission vehicles, and clean fuels.

By improving awareness and confidence among individuals, communities and businesses, Indigenous-led projects will support more widespread adoption of zero- and low-emission vehicles, says Natural Resources Canada, as well as clean fuels (e.g. biofuels, hydrogen), further driving the decarbonization of transportation and other energy sectors for Indigenous communities.

Successful applicants from Indigenous-led or -owned organizations could each receive contributions of up to 75% of the total eligible project costs, with a maximum funding contribution of up to $150,000 per year for a project.

Applications for this pilot will be accepted on a continuous intake basis until March 31, 2024, or until all funding has been committed. Funded projects can include activities over multiple years, until March 31, 2026. There is no minimum project duration.