b'MESSAGE FROM THE CEOHonouring Our Legacy,Advancing Our VisionFor generations, First Nations have carried the knowledge, responsibility, and vision to care for our lands and shape our futures. That work has never been easy. It has meant pushing back against systems that excluded us and creating space where our values and rights lead the way.The First Nations Major Projects Coalition was formed to support that work, to stand behind the vision of leaders who knew that self-determination doesnt come from waiting to be invited in. It comes from taking our place, leading the conversations, and building the tools we need to shape our owneconomic paths.Progress doesnt happen by accident. It builds over time. Each step is grounded in the teachings of Mark Podlaslythose who came before us.Chief Executive Officer Niilo Edwards was one of those leaders. His vision and commitment helped shape the coalitioninto what it is today: a national voice working to reshape First Nations participation inCanadas economy.Niilo believed in First Nations as owners, not observers. He talked about real equity, real control, and real influence at decision-making tables. At the time, it felt impossible. The barriers were everywhere. But Niilo didnt blink. He looked me in the eye and asked, Are you in?That moment set the direction for the coalition, and we never wavered. Through years of advocacy, partnerships, and persistence, his vision became reality. One result of that work is the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program, a federal mechanism to support First Nations equity in major projects.But Niilo didnt do this work alone. His leadership was rooted in the strength of those who came before him, the Elders, advisors, and leaders who reminded us that wealth without values is hollow. Every step the coalition has taken reflects those teachings: respect for land, protection of culture, and the well-being of our communities over the long term.PREPARING FOR THE FUTURECanadas economy is changing. From the clean energy transition to infrastructure renewal and the growth of the critical minerals sector, First Nations must be at the centre of what comes next. That goes beyond equityit means shaping how projects are built, how financing works, and how success is defined.Heres where were going: Expanding opportunities through access to capital and strategic investment partnerships;Strengthening our voice in public policy to ensure laws and frameworks reflect First Nationspriorities; andBuilding internal capacity to serve our members and amplify the power of collective action. The numbers speak for themselves. In 2019, FNMPC was engaged in four projects worth $11.75 billion. Today, we are supporting 19 projects valued at over $45 billion. When First Nations lead,everyone benefits.This coalition was built on the simple idea that First Nations must control the decisions that affectour lands and our futures. That idea is no longer just a vision. Its a reality, and were justgetting started.Mark Podlasly Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Major Projects Coalition10NATIONS FORWARDIssue 12025'