For more than 25 years, the member Nations of Coastal First Nations-Great Bear Initiative (CFN-GBI) have worked together to protect the lands and waters of the Great Bear Rainforest and Sea, and to uphold governance, stewardship, and sustainable livelihoods in our communities. From the Great Bear Rainforest Agreements to Coastal Guardians; from restoring wild salmon to advancing Indigenous marine planning and clean energy transitions—our member Nations have shown what’s possible when we lead the work, and when long-term vision is matched with long-term commitment.The Great Bear First Nations Foundation (GBFNF) was created to carry this legacy forward, and to grow new resources for the next generation.

GBFNF is governed by the very Nations it serves. Our Board includes representation from CFN-GBI member Nations—the Gitga’at,Gitxaała, Haida, Heiltsuk, Kitasoo Xai’xais, Metlakatla, Nuxalk and Wuikinuxv Nations.

Our mandate is rooted in community direction and accountability. We are not starting from scratch.We are building on decades of Indigenous-led work across this region—supported by trusted partnerships, shared infrastructure, and deep relationships in our communities.

We know what’s needed. And we are ready to act. Our communities have already defined the priorities: education, stewardship, climate action, cultural revitalization. The Foundation exists to mobilize the resources, partnerships, and long-term investments to support them.

Our vision for the Great Bear Rainforest and Sea is rooted in our inherent responsibility to govern and steward these lands and waters for future generations—an enduring relationship built on knowledge,care and accountability.

We invest in programs that:

• Strengthen education,capacity building, andyouth leadership

• Advance Indigenous-led climate action and energy sovereignty

• Restore ecosystems and protect biodiversity

This is not short-term work.It is generational work—grounded in our values, directed by our communities,and carried forward with care.

“If we take care of the land, the land will take care of us. If we take care of the ocean, the ocean will take care of us.These are our breadbaskets.”

Marilyn Slett, Chief Councillor, Heiltsuk Tribal Council and President, Coastal First Nations