ICI Society First Nations Working Group

Building Stronger Geospatial Relationships with First Nations Communities

The ICI Society First Nations Working Group is a strategic initiative that reflects our commitment to meaningful engagement, data collaboration, and support for Indigenous communities in British Columbia. Established under the guidance of the ICI Society Board, the Working Group ensures that First Nations perspectives are represented in the province’s evolving geospatial ecosystem.

Why This Matters

In 2019, British Columbia became the first jurisdiction in Canada to legislate implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). The ICI Society recognizes that First Nations communities have historically been underserved and that inclusive data governance is essential to reconciliation and responsible spatial data sharing.

Our Purpose

The First Nations Working Group exists to:
  • Strengthen relationships with current First Nations members
  • Better understand the geospatial data needs and opportunities across First Nations communities
  • Identify and address data challenges collaboratively
  • Promote data sharing through platforms like GeoShare

  • Expand ICI Society First Nations membership across BC

Key Activities

  • Engaging in pilot projects with high-capacity First Nations to model success
  • Supporting the development and sharing of address and infrastructure data
  • Co-developing services and tools to meet community needs
  • Advising the ICI Society Board on First Nations data priorities

Shared Outcomes

  • Increased GIS and data capacity in First Nations communities
  • A stronger, more inclusive AddressBC dataset
  • Better collaboration and data exchange between all ICI Society members

Together, we are building a future where Indigenous data leadership is respected, recognized, and supported.