Funding in the Right Relationship

A Reflection on the EDGE 2025 Conference

Being in community with movement servicing organizations and donors at EDGE’s 2025 Conference was both grounding and clarifying. The conversations affirmed what Indigenous communities have long known: funding is not a transaction, it’s a relationship – One rooted in reciprocity, care, and long-term commitment.

As an Indigenous-led organization, we’ve witnessed the harm caused when funding is guided by fear, optics, or discomfort. Too often, support disappears when our movements speak hard truths — when we defend land and water, challenge systems of colonial violence, or stand in solidarity with others facing injustice. These withdrawals don’t just disrupt programs; they damage trust and send a message that Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination are conditional.

At Indigenous Climate Action (ICA), our funding principles are shaped by teachings like the Three Sisters and the Moose — models that remind us to share, support, and only take what’s needed. We believe resourcing movements must follow these values: nourishing, not extractive; consistent, not reactive.

This political moment demands courage. It asks funders not just to listen, but to act, to stay in a relationship when it’s hard, to move money where it’s most needed, and to commit for the long haul.

If you are a funder or part of a philanthropic institution, we invite you to reflect deeply. Are you ready to meet this moment with integrity? To resource Indigenous-led, youth-led, and grassroots work not just in words, but in action?

We’re walking this path, rooted in love for our communities and the land. Walk with us.

How You Can Take Action 

• Donate Today: Your contribution directly funds Indigenous-led climate justice initiatives. Every dollar is an act of solidarity – a commitment to protect what is sacred.

• Spread the Word: Share this blog with your networks! Raise awareness about the urgent need to defend our land and water.

• Stay Engaged: Follow Indigenous-led organizations and activists. Support policies that protect land, water and Indigenous rights.

Together, we can shift how power and resources flow – rooted in respect, responsibility and relationship – starting with acting today!