Applications Now Open for 2025 Sovereignty in Action Awards: Celebrating Indigenous-Led Climate Justice

Press Release

June 18, 2025

Turtle Island – Indigenous Climate Action (ICA) is proud to announce that the 2025 Sovereignty in Action (SIA) Awards intake is now open! This cohort, we’re distributing up to $50,000 in support of Indigenous-led individuals, grassroots groups, and community projects that embody sovereignty in action. Each recipient will receive $2,500 to support their work — whether it’s on the land, in language, or acts of resistance and care.

As a part of ICA’s commitment to supporting Indigenous sovereignty, the SIA Awards celebrates the ongoing work from individuals for their communities, all while protecting lands, waters and ways of life.

Since its inception, SIA has served as a way to honour our communities through supporting their work towards climate justice, climate change and Indigenous sovereignty.

In 2024, ICA distributed 25 awards to Indigenous leaders and initiatives across Turtle Island. These community groups and members demonstrated the different ways on how Indigenous sovereignty can look – from food sovereignty, cultural support, treaty rights advocacy and beyond.

Past recipients include groups such as Camp Morningstar (MB), Ntisinen Language Nest (Potlotek First Nation), Strong Earth Alliance (ON), and Esgnoopetitj Watershed Association (NB), among many others demonstrating powerful community-led climate solutions.

The current nomination period runs from June 18 to July 15, 2025. A second intake for the 2025 cohort will open at a later date. Indigenous individuals and groups are encouraged to nominate themselves.

Eligibility at a glance:

• Must be Indigenous-led and based in so-called Canada

• Must be an existing project, action, or initiative

• Must be 18+ (15% of total awards reserved for youth-led initiatives)

• Must be able to share stories/testimonials about their work (written, oral, visual, or creative)

Timeline:

• Deadline to apply:
  July 15, 2025

• Selection Process with Sovereignty in Action Committee:
  July 21 – 24, 2025

• Awardee Announcements to Recipients:
  July 28 – 31, 2025

• Social Media Recipients Announcements:
  Announcements will be made periodically over the month of August 2025

By supporting these Indigenous-led efforts, ICA showcases that Indigenous people are leading the way in climate solutions. The Sovereignty in Action Awards recognizes these initiatives and will continue to support those who are currently making a difference in their communities. The SIA Awards is a chance to honour those living out sovereignty through land defence, cultural practices and climate action.

To learn more about the Sovereignty in Action Awards, visit our website:
www.indigenousclimateaction.com
Submit your nominations here

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jessica Christmas, Indigenous Climate Action
Media@indigenousclimateaction.com

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