IFI AwardsGROUP
IFI Innovation Award
Description
The Indigenous Financial Institution (IFI) Innovation Award acknowledges improvements in products, services, methods, or approaches that are either brand new or have undergone significant enhancements. These advancements can serve as examples for other Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs). NACCA seeks to celebrate innovations that have shown substantial benefits to either the IFI network or the Indigenous business sector. It's important to note that this award recognizes innovative IFIs or groups of IFIs, not specific individuals, who have developed solutions benefiting the IFI network or Indigenous business sector.
The award focuses on innovative activities in these key areas:
- New ideas or innovations
- Financial products or support services for businesses
- IFI processes or approaches
- Collaboration among IFIs
Nominees can submit their innovations in one or more of these areas for review by the Awards Committee.
For consideration, innovative projects must have been completed and launched before the nomination form submission.
The deadline for nominations is February 20, 2026.
All NACCA members in good standing may nominate a deserving candidate by submitting a completed nomination form and all supporting documentation, for consideration by the awards committee.
To be considered for the "IFI Innovation Award" the nominee:
All NACCA members in good standing may nominate a deserving candidate/project by submitting a completed nomination form and all supporting documentation, for consideration by the Awards Committee.
Please complete the nomination form and submit the following supporting documentation.
Brief outline of the innovation and the benefits observed.
Identify the Innovation category.
- New Idea or Innovation
- Financial Products or Business Support Services
- IFI Process or Approach
- IFI Collaboration
Describe the development of the project/innovation, rationale for implementation, and benefit to the IFI(s) and/or IFI clients.
Include information on the process, methodology and/or metrics that were used to guide the project from start to finish. Where possible include metrics that show the benefits?
Include: news article, photo/video, résumé, testimonial/reference letter, other awards or any other media instrument that showcases the outstanding achievements and/or impacts of the project. (below)
* Each nomination must be endorsed by a member IFI and supported by documentation.
** All criteria and requested information will be required on the form in order for the submission to be completed. If the nomination form does not allow you to submit, please review your nomination and add the missing details.
Selection
An independent awards committee will be responsible for reviewing and selecting an award winner. Winners will be notified in advance of the Prosperity Forum. A presentation will take place at the Prosperity Forum Dinner and Gala. In the event an in-person event is not possible, a virtual presentation may take place.
In the event, that no nominations are received, or the nomination does not meet the standard expected by the Awards Committee, an award may not be presented in that year.
Criteria
The introduction of an innovative solution will be judged and scored on the following.
Demonstrable Benefits
The innovative project must highlight key benefits accruing from the innovative project such as; increased market/client base, rising capital base, improved revenues, better customer experience and outcomes – client satisfaction, improved skills training/education, mentoring, business profitability, enhanced repayment rates; IFI administrative efficiency, improved turnaround times, and/or cost savings, etc.
The project may be judged on the goals and metrics that were established prior to implementation of the innovative project, if available.
Replicability
The submission must include information on how the project could be utilized and benefit others in the IFI network.
Organizational Impact
The project must demonstrate how it achieved an identifiable, positive and lasting change for an IFI or the IFI network.
Recognizes an innovation that has been introduced and launched a ground-breaking product, service or process in the IFI network that goes beyond the traditional suite of products, services or processes utilized within the IFI network.
New ideas are ground-breaking in nature and seek to expand the IFI's sphere of influence by offering a new product, service or process that expands its customer base, market share, capital base and/or organizational efficiency.
Financial Product or Business Support Service:
Recognizes an innovation that has resulted in a remarkable change or improvement to an existing product or service that has been well received by IFIs clients for its simplicity, focus on service, timeliness and results that have a positive impact on IFI client's satisfaction and business outcomes. The innovation may have an impact on the IFI network, group of IFIs or a single IFI.
Product innovation may span a broad range of activities such as product renovation, simplicity, effectiveness, timeliness or reach that leads to greater uptake and client satisfaction in meeting the needs of the Indigenous business sector.
Service innovation may include improvements in the delivery of service that increase accessibility, convenience, experience, and results for IFI clients from the introduction of new technologies, tools, improved approach to delivery service or curriculum that improves the IFI client's experience and leads to better outcomes for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
IFI Process or Approach:
Recognizes an innovation that has resulted in a remarkable change or improvement to a commonly used process, practice, or approach within the IFI network that has resulted in increased efficiency and/or cost savings. The improvement may have resulted from the adoption of a new technology or upgrade to an existing technology, the introduction of a new tool, practice, or process from outside the IFI network, or a complete overhaul of an existing tool, process, or practice that has demonstrable benefits to a single IFI, group of IFIs or the IFI network.
Collaboration:
Recognizes a group of IFIs that have come together to address an issue or opportunity in their region by.
a) Develop and introduce a new/updated product or service to address the needs of the Indigenous business sector in their region, or
b) Consolidate or share common administrative practices, training, processes or approaches that improve administrative efficiency or cost savings within the group.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Demonstrable Benefits | 30.0% |
| Replicability | 25.0% |
| Organizational Impact | 25.0% |
| Innovation Type | 20.0% |
IFI Distinguished Leader Award
Description
The Distinguished Indigenous Financial Institution (IFI) Leader Award recognizes an inspiring individual who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and significant contributions to the IFI network's growth. NACCA recognizes these leaders and celebrates all those who have contributed to the success of the IFI network from coast to coast to coast.
Consider someone who has demonstrated outstanding leadership skills and made significant contributions to sustaining the IFI network. What specific achievements showcase their dedication and enthusiasm for developing Indigenous businesses and supporting the growth of the IFI network?
The deadline for nominations is February 20, 2026.
Guidelines:
All NACCA members in good standing may nominate a deserving candidate by submitting a completed nomination form and all supporting documentation, for consideration by the awards committee.
To be considered for the "Distinguished IFI Leader Award" the nominee:
1) Must be, or have been, an employee or a Board member of an IFI affiliated with NACCA.
2) May not be a current NACCA Board member or a former Board member who has served on the NACCA Board in the last 12 months.
3) May not be a NACCA employee or an employee in the last 12 months.
4) Must have consistently demonstrated a high level of professionalism and ethical standards in the service of the IFI movement.
5) The nominee must consent to have their name, photograph/video, and award information published on the NACCA website or any other NACCA-related communications instrument.
* Each nomination must be endorsed by a member IFI and supported by documentation.
** All criteria and requested information will be required on the form in order for the submission to be completed. If the nomination form does not allow you to submit, please review your nomination and add the missing details.
Selection
An independent awards committee will be responsible for reviewing and selecting an award winner. Winners will be notified in advance of the Prosperity Forum. A presentation will take place at the Prosperity Forum Dinner and Gala. In the event an in-person event is not possible, a virtual presentation may take place.
In the event, that no nominations are received, or the nomination does not meet the standard expected by the Awards Committee, an award may not be presented in that year.
CRITERIA
The nominee has demonstrated leadership that is national in scope and has resulted in a measurable and sustainable progress for advancement of the IFI network.
The nominee has played a leadership role in one or more strategic initiatives/projects that contributed to the growth, strengthening and sustainability of the IFI network.
The nominee has consistently demonstrated a high degree of professionalism and ethical standards in their service to the IFI network.
The Distinguished IFI Leader Award is NACCA's most prestigious award and will only be awarded when the Awards Committee deems the criteria for this special award has been met.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Leadership Impact | 40.0% |
| Strategic Initiatives/Projects | 30.0% |
| Professionalism & Ethical Standards | 30.0% |
Indigenous Business Awards of ExcellenceGROUP
Indigenous Women Entrepreneur Award
Description
General Nomination Information
To be eligible for this category:
a) The nominee must have been nominated by an Indigenous Financial Institution.
b) Provide a complete description of the business activities and demonstrate how the nominee meets the full selection criteria.
c) Provide a description of ownership structure, business and website address, number of years in operation, and number of employees.
d) The business should demonstrate a commitment to Indigenous wealth creation and community values. Nominations are encouraged to provide a brief statement explaining how the business aligns with these values.
e) Provide financial information verified by the IFI that nominated the business that details total revenues, expenses, and profit/(loss).
f) Supporting documents must be provided where requested. This includes testimonials, award certificates, reference letters, media coverage, resumé, etc.
The deadline for nominations is February 20, 2026.
- To be eligible for this category:
a) The nominee must have been nominated by an Indigenous Financial Institution.
b) Provide a complete description of the business activities and demonstrate how the nominee meets the full selection criteria.
c) Provide a description of ownership structure, business and website address, number of years in operation, and number of employees.
d) The business should demonstrate a commitment to Indigenous wealth creation and community values. Nominations are encouraged to provide a brief statement explaining how the business aligns with these values.
e) Provide financial information verified by the IFI that nominated the business that details total revenues, expenses, and profit/(loss).
f) Supporting documents must be provided where requested. This includes testimonials, award certificates, reference letters, media coverage, resumé, etc.
Proof of Indigeneity
Proof of Indigeneity is required in order to be considered an Indigenous business/organization/individual and verification process will be undertaken. Indigenous business owners, directors of Indigenous companies, and in the case of cooperatives – voting members, must provide evidence of Indigenous identity as demonstrated by one of the following:
First Nation Certificate of Indian Status, Secure Indian Status Card and First Nation Citizenship Cards issued by
• First Nation as listed on the official Government of Canada website
• Modern Treaty Holders and Self-Governing First Nations in Canada as listed on the official Government of Canada website
• Indigenous Services Canada Inuit Beneficiary Cards issued by: • Nunavut Land Claim Agreement (Nunavut) • Inuvialuit Final Agreement (Northwest Territories) • Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement (Nunatsiavut) • James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement (Nunavik) Métis Citizenship Cards issued by: • Métis National Council affiliates (Métis Nation of Alberta, Métis Nation of British Columbia, Métis Nation of Ontario and Métis Nation of Saskatchewan) • Manitoba Métis Federation • Alberta Métis Settlement • Northwest Territory Métis Nation Non-Status Indians must be verified through: • First Nation recognition of the individual under the First Nation's own Citizenship / Membership Code as verified by the First Nation Membership/Citizenship Clerk. • Verification in writing of recognized biological lineage to the community from an elected leader of the First Nation along with the Membership/Citizenship Clerk of the First Nation. Self-identification without proof of Indigeneity as listed above will not be accepted or recognized.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Ownership & Control | 10.0% |
| Involvement in Day-to-Day Management | 10.0% |
| Integrity & Customer Service | 10.0% |
| Corporate Culture & Community Impact | 15.0% |
| Employment & Profitability | 15.0% |
| Financial Sustainability & Competitiveness | 15.0% |
| Excellence in Field | 10.0% |
| Leadership & Community Involvement | 15.0% |
Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur Award
Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur – Award of Excellence Criteria
To be eligible for this category:
a) The nominee must have been nominated by an Indigenous Financial Institution.
b) Provide a complete description of the business activities and demonstrate how the nominee meets the full selection criteria.
c) Provide a description of ownership structure, business and website address, number of years in operation, and number of employees.
d) The business should demonstrate a commitment to Indigenous wealth creation and community values. Nominations are encouraged to provide a brief statement explaining how the business aligns with these values.
e) Provide financial information verified by the IFI that nominated the business that details total revenues, expenses, and profit/(loss).
f) Supporting documents must be provided where requested. This includes testimonials, award certificates, reference letters, media coverage, resumé, etc.
The deadline for nominations is February 20, 2026.
Proof of Indigeneity
Proof of Indigeneity is required in order to be considered an Indigenous business/organization/individual and verification process will be undertaken. Indigenous business owners, directors of Indigenous companies, and in the case of cooperatives – voting members, must provide evidence of Indigenous identity as demonstrated by one of the following:
First Nation Certificate of Indian Status, Secure Indian Status Card and First Nation Citizenship Cards issued by
• First Nation as listed on the official Government of Canada website
• Modern Treaty Holders and Self-Governing First Nations in Canada as listed on the official Government of Canada website
• Indigenous Services Canada
Inuit Beneficiary Cards issued by:
• Nunavut Land Claim Agreement (Nunavut)
• Inuvialuit Final Agreement (Northwest Territories)
• Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement (Nunatsiavut)
• James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement (Nunavik)
Métis Citizenship Cards issued by:
• Métis National Council affiliates (Métis Nation of Alberta, Métis Nation of British Columbia, Métis Nation of Ontario and Métis Nation of Saskatchewan)
• Manitoba Métis Federation
• Alberta Métis Settlement
• Northwest Territory Métis Nation
Non-Status Indians must be verified through:
• First Nation recognition of the individual under the First Nation's own Citizenship / Membership Code as verified by the First Nation Membership/Citizenship Clerk.
• Verification in writing of recognized biological lineage to the community from an elected leader of the First Nation along with the Membership/Citizenship Clerk of the First Nation.
Self-identification without proof of Indigeneity as listed above will not be accepted or recognized.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Ownership & Control | 10.0% |
| Involvement in Day-to-Day Management | 10.0% |
| Integrity & Customer Service | 10.0% |
| Corporate Culture & Community Impact | 15.0% |
| Employment & Profitability | 15.0% |
| Financial Sustainability & Competitiveness | 15.0% |
| Excellence in Field | 10.0% |
| Leadership & Community Involvement | 15.0% |
Indigenous Business of the Year Award
- To be eligible for this category:
a) The nominee must have been nominated by an Indigenous Financial Institution.
b) Provide a complete description of the business activities and demonstrate how the nominee meets the full selection criteria.
c) Provide a description of ownership structure, business and website address, number of years in operation, and number of employees.
d) The business should demonstrate a commitment to Indigenous wealth creation and community values. Nominations are encouraged to provide a brief statement explaining how the business aligns with these values.
e) Provide financial information verified by the IFI that nominated the business that details total revenues, expenses, and profit/(loss).
f) Supporting documents must be provided where requested. This includes testimonials, award certificates, reference letters, media coverage, resumé, etc.
The deadline for nominations is February 20, 2026.
Proof of Indigeneity
Proof of Indigeneity is required in order to be considered an Indigenous business/organization/individual and verification process will be undertaken. Indigenous business owners, directors of Indigenous companies, and in the case of cooperatives – voting members, must provide evidence of Indigenous identity as demonstrated by one of the following:
First Nation Certificate of Indian Status, Secure Indian Status Card and First Nation Citizenship Cards issued by
• First Nation as listed on the official Government of Canada website
• Modern Treaty Holders and Self-Governing First Nations in Canada as listed on the official Government of Canada website
• Indigenous Services Canada
Inuit Beneficiary Cards issued by:
• Nunavut Land Claim Agreement (Nunavut)
• Inuvialuit Final Agreement (Northwest Territories)
• Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement (Nunatsiavut)
• James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement (Nunavik)
Métis Citizenship Cards issued by:
• Métis National Council affiliates (Métis Nation of Alberta, Métis Nation of British Columbia, Métis Nation of Ontario and Métis Nation of Saskatchewan)
• Manitoba Métis Federation
• Alberta Métis Settlement
• Northwest Territory Métis Nation
Non-Status Indians must be verified through:
• First Nation recognition of the individual under the First Nation's own Citizenship / Membership Code as verified by the First Nation Membership/Citizenship Clerk.
• Verification in writing of recognized biological lineage to the community from an elected leader of the First Nation along with the Membership/Citizenship Clerk of the First Nation.
Self-identification without proof of Indigeneity as listed above will not be accepted or recognized.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Ownership & Control | 10.0% |
| Involvement in Day-to-Day Management | 10.0% |
| Integrity & Customer Service | 10.0% |
| Corporate Culture & Community Impact | 15.0% |
| Employment & Profitability | 15.0% |
| Financial Sustainability & Competitiveness | 15.0% |
| Excellence in Field | 10.0% |
| Leadership & Community Involvement | 15.0% |
Indigenous Community Business of the Year Award
a) The nominee must have been nominated by an Indigenous Financial Institution.
b) Provide a complete description of the business activities and demonstrate how the nominee meets the full selection criteria.
c) Provide a description of ownership structure, business and website address, number of years in operation, and number of employees.
d) The business should demonstrate a commitment to Indigenous wealth creation and community values. Nominations are encouraged to provide a brief statement explaining how the business aligns with these values.
e) Provide financial information verified by the IFI that nominated the business that details total revenues, expenses, and profit/(loss).
f) Supporting documents must be provided where requested. This includes testimonials, award certificates, reference letters, media coverage, resumé, etc.
The deadline for nominations is February 20, 2026.
Proof of Indigeneity
Proof of Indigeneity is required in order to be considered an Indigenous business/organization/individual and verification process will be undertaken. Indigenous business owners, directors of Indigenous companies, and in the case of cooperatives – voting members, must provide evidence of Indigenous identity as demonstrated by one of the following:
First Nation Certificate of Indian Status, Secure Indian Status Card and First Nation Citizenship Cards issued by
• First Nation as listed on the official Government of Canada website
• Modern Treaty Holders and Self-Governing First Nations in Canada as listed on the official Government of Canada website
• Indigenous Services Canada
Inuit Beneficiary Cards issued by:
• Nunavut Land Claim Agreement (Nunavut)
• Inuvialuit Final Agreement (Northwest Territories)
• Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement (Nunatsiavut)
• James Bay Northern Quebec Agreement (Nunavik)
Métis Citizenship Cards issued by:
• Métis National Council affiliates (Métis Nation of Alberta, Métis Nation of British Columbia, Métis Nation of Ontario and Métis Nation of Saskatchewan)
• Manitoba Métis Federation
• Alberta Métis Settlement
• Northwest Territory Métis Nation
Non-Status Indians must be verified through:
• First Nation recognition of the individual under the First Nation's own Citizenship / Membership Code as verified by the First Nation Membership/Citizenship Clerk.
• Verification in writing of recognized biological lineage to the community from an elected leader of the First Nation along with the Membership/Citizenship Clerk of the First Nation.
Self-identification without proof of Indigeneity as listed above will not be accepted or recognized.
Criteria
| Criterion | Weight |
|---|---|
| Ownership & Control | 10.0% |
| Involvement in Day-to-Day Management | 10.0% |
| Integrity & Customer Service | 10.0% |
| Corporate Culture & Community Impact | 15.0% |
| Employment & Profitability | 15.0% |
| Financial Sustainability & Competitiveness | 15.0% |
| Excellence in Field | 10.0% |
| Leadership & Community Involvement | 15.0% |
