Message from the CEO – September 2025

Sep 25, 2025

Dear Valued Members and Stakeholders,

As we reflect on the third quarter of 2025, I’m pleased to share several important milestones and initiatives that continue to advance the Fund’s mission of supporting stronger housing markets and homeownership for First Nations.

In late August, I delivered a presentation at the AGM for the Lands Advisory Board, which was held virtually. In that presentation I spoke about the joint research project that we are doing with the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre on A to A Leasing. This research, when completed, will help us to determine how the FNMHF can support greater awareness and use of A to A Leasing in First Nation communities.

In September, our team attended the Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly (AFN AGA).  This year it was held in Winnipeg. Over three days, we connected with Chiefs, delegates, and community members from across the country to share how the Fund is helping to build sustainable housing solutions on reserve. Highlights included reconnecting with clients, as well as the honor of meeting National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. On the final day of the assembly, AFN passed a resolution in support of our efforts to transfer the Fund to First Nation control. We are very grateful to the AFN for their support. The energy, leadership, and commitment to community building we witnessed left us both inspired and motivated for the work ahead.

We are also pleased to share the release of the Fund’s National Engagement Summary Report, prepared by Cree8ive Advisory. Over the past year, we listened to First Nations leaders, housing staff, youth, and Elders through sessions across Canada. The report highlights what communities told us about housing needs, barriers to homeownership, and priorities for the future, while also capturing perspectives on the Fund’s services and the potential transition to First Nations control. These insights will guide our programs, advocacy, and partnerships in the months and years ahead.

Looking ahead, I am proud to announce that the Fund will host its first Annual General Meeting (AGM) on December 4, 2025, in Ottawa. Taking place alongside the AFN Special Chiefs Assembly, this hybrid event will ensure accessibility for participants across the country. This milestone marks an important step in strengthening our accountability, sharing updates on our progress, and engaging directly with our members and partners. I encourage you to save this date on your calendar and join us as we mark this new chapter together. More details on how to register and log into the AGM will be made available on the FNMHF website as we get closer to the date.

Thank you for your continued trust and collaboration. We encourage you to stay connected. Follow us on social media and reach out to our team to learn more about upcoming opportunities and resources.

Sincerely,

Travis Seymour, FCPA, FCGA, MBA, CAFM
CEO, First Nations Market Housing Fund

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