In December 2025, the First Nations Market Housing Fund (the Fund) held its first Annual General Meeting (AGM). The meeting marked an important milestone in the Fund’s development as it continues to strengthen its governance, relationships, and role in supporting First Nations housing finance.
The AGM was hosted at the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) headquarters in Ottawa. The space was generously offered by AFN, providing a setting that reflected the long-standing relationship and continued collaboration between the two organizations.
This blog reflects on that moment of gathering, the significance of the shared space, and a gesture of appreciation exchanged between AFN and the Fund.
A gesture of appreciation
As a gesture of appreciation for hosting the AGM, the Fund presented AFN with a framed print of artwork commissioned from Brent Hardisty.
The artwork was commissioned by the Fund and selected to reflect themes of identity, land, and connection. It was presented as a symbol of gratitude for AFN’s support in hosting the Fund’s first AGM.
The exchange reflected a moment of recognition between the two organizations, acknowledging both the practical and relational aspects of their ongoing collaboration.
Collaboration between AFN and the Fund
The relationship between AFN and the Fund continues to be shaped by shared priorities in First Nations housing and housing finance.
Over recent years, both organizations have engaged in discussions and initiatives focused on strengthening access to housing, supporting community-led approaches, and exploring long-term models for First Nations control of housing finance tools.
Within this context, AFN continues to play a national leadership and advocacy role, while the Fund focuses on the development and implementation of housing finance mechanisms intended to support First Nations homeownership and housing choice.
Although the roles of each organization are distinct, there is ongoing alignment in purpose and direction.
Conclusion
The Fund’s first AGM marked an operational milestone, while also reflecting the importance of relationships that support its ongoing development.
The offer of space from AFN, and the presentation of artwork commissioned from Brent Hardisty, reflected a moment of appreciation between the two organizations.
As the Fund continues to evolve, collaboration with First Nations organizations such as AFN remains part of the broader context in which housing finance discussions, governance development, and long-term system change are taking place.