Powering Indigenous partnerships

At Hydro One, the partnerships we're building together with Indigenous communities and businesses are rooted in respect, trust and a shared vision for the future. We continue to work alongside First Nations partners to build Ontario's electricity network and support growing communities and economies across the province.

Indigenous partnership policy

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Doing business with us Savings programs Building as partners Careers

Now accepting applications

Hydro One Indigenous Partnership Grant

We value the strong and meaningful partnerships that we continue to build with Indigenous communities across Ontario and strengthen these relationships through ongoing collaboration. To support this work, we offer a year-round grant open to all Indigenous communities and organizations supporting initiatives that strengthen cultural, social, environmental and economic well-being. Eligible community-driven projects and programs may receive up to $25,000 in funding. Smaller-scale funding is also available for local events, gatherings and cultural celebrations.

How to apply

Before completing the online application form, review the funding criteria below to ensure your community or organization and initiatives is eligible. Hydro One will notify selected applicants directly.

For more information about the grant and application process, contact IndigenousPartnerships@HydroOne.com

Funding criteria

  • Eligible applications include Ontario First Nations or Métis Indigenous communities or organization, or Canadian registered charities or non-profit organization working in partnership with an Ontario First Nations or Métis community.
  • Demonstrated ability to report accurately and transparently on the use of funds and community impact, using reporting requirements that are proportionate to the investment.
  • Willing, where appropriate, to collaborate on engagement and communications and Hydro One employee participation opportunities that support community goals.
  • Hydro One recognizes that communities vary in capacity and resourcing. Applications will be evaluated with consideration for community context, scale, and access to administrative supports.
Community members speaking at a Hydro One Indigenous engagement event

Apply for the opportunity to receive up to $25,000 in funding

Apply now

Examples of eligible projects

Cultural, ecological and heritage preservation

  • Language revitalization
  • Cultural and ceremonial spaces or events
  • Land-based learning or environmental restoration and climate resilience

Community safety and emergency preparedness

  • Backup power and generators
  • Street lighting
  • Emergency shelters
  • Safe gathering spaces or first responder training and equipment

Education, training and capacity building

  • Trades and technical certifications
  • Leadership and mentorship
  • Youth education and career development

Powering progress with the Waasigan Line

Aerial view of a Northern Ontario community along the Waasigan Transmission Line route
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Building as partners

We're advancing one of the largest transmission line infrastructure investment portfolios in Canada together with First Nations. Through Hydro One's First Nation Equity Partnership Model, proximate First Nations will have the opportunity to invest in a 50% equity stake in the transmission line component of projects with a value of more than $100 million. Together, Hydro One and the First Nations will collaborate throughout the planning, development and construction stages of a project.

Transmission system projects

Indigenous procurement

One way we integrate sustainability into daily operations is by strengthening partnerships with Indigenous communities. In 2025, we exceeded our goal of directing 5% of spend to Indigenous businesses, investing approximately $216 million (7.1%) in Indigenous businesses and materials.

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Utility worker in safety gear standing beside a high-voltage transmission tower and overhead power lines
Hydro One employees walking along a transmission corridor during a field visit

Critical connections

Since 2022, we've connected 14 communities to three-phase power.

If you're interested in connecting a new home, subdivision, commercial development or require three-phase power, we're here to help.

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Ways to save

Explore the latest energy savings programs and financial assistance options available to Indigenous customers to help reduce delivery costs and offer energy-efficient solutions.

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First Nations Delivery Credit and HST exemption

Available to First Nation communities to reduce energy costs.

Apply now
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Save on Energy programs

Eligible First Nations customers can apply for energy-efficient incentives.

See programs
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Connected with Care

Discover flexible plan options, savings programs and services that support your unique needs.

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Community investment

Connecting power and possibility

At Hydro One, 20% of our corporate community investment spend is dedicated to supporting Indigenous organizations and communities. Through the meaningful and lasting partnerships, we collaborate with Indigenous communities and charitable organizations on community-lead initiatives, programs, events and cultural celebrations through funding that reflects our shared commitment to long-term prosperity.

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Young community member participating in a cultural gathering supported through Hydro One Indigenous partnerships

For more than 50 years, the Little Native Hockey League's annual tournament brings together local Indigenous athletes, coaches and volunteers to compete while celebrating inclusivity and community.

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We're proud to partner with the Downie Wenjack Fund to advance reconciliation efforts, enhance education on Indigenous history and support the creation of safe spaces for dialogue.

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We work with Indspire to support educational opportunities and empower Indigenous students across Canada.

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Join our team

Indigenous employees are an important part of our workforce. We recruit for positions throughout the year for professionals and students and designate a portion of summer student opportunities to Indigenous students. For questions, email Indigenous.Recruitment@HydroOne.com

Apply now

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