Sumas First Nation achieves Financial Management System Certification
SUMAS FIRST NATION – Sumas First Nation, located along the Sumas River near Abbotsford, British Columbia, has achieved Financial Management System (FMS) Certification from the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB). This means that Sumas First Nation’s finance and administrative governance practices now meet the standards of the FMB’s highest level of financial certification, based on internationally recognized standards of financial management.
“This accomplishment is a direct reflection of the dedication, hard work, and professionalism of our entire administration and staff,” says Chief Dalton Silver. “This certification is more than just a piece of paper; it is a powerful door-opener for the future prosperity and self-determination of Semá:th. Adhering to the FMB standards immediately signals to partners, investors, and all levels of government that our Nation’s finances are managed with the utmost integrity and transparency.”
Sumas First Nation began working with the FMB over 10 years ago by developing a Financial Administration Law and set the goal of meeting the standards required for FMS Certification. Since then, the Nation has made steady and meaningful progress backed by strong leadership, the shared community vision of the Semá:th people, and an understanding of the financial systems needed to support future growth.
“This achievement will allow us to access better financing options, attract stable economic development opportunities, and ultimately, reinvest more effectively into the services and programs that directly benefit our people – from housing and education to cultural preservation,” says Chief Silver.
The Nation’s economic development goals, including light industrial development, infrastructure investments, and jurisdiction over its lands to enable property taxation. With more than 200 acres of land designated for commercial and light industrial use near the growing city of Abbotsford, Sumas First Nation is preparing for significant expansion. Among other benefits, certification enables the Nation to borrow at competitive rates through the First Nations Finance Authority.
“I’m thrilled to congratulate Sumas First Nation on this important milestone in its journey toward economic self-determination,” says FMB Executive Chair Harold Calla. “Recent research shows that FMS-Certified First Nations experience higher quality-of-life outcomes, including in housing, education levels, and own-source revenues, demonstrating the tangible benefits of investing in sound financial management practices.”
About Sumas First Nation
The Semá:th people are known as the fierce wolf people and are part of the larger Stό:lō Nation. We are located in Abbotsford, British Columbia, where we have been since time immemorial, and we are located where previously the Semá:th Lake and waterways were. These aquatic habitats formed an integral part of our community and our traditional way of life. Today, Semá:th has approximately 400 people, and we are continually growing.
About FMB:
The First Nations Financial Management Board is a First Nations-led non-profit organization that supports First Nations and certain Indigenous not-for-profit organizations in developing sound financial and administrative governance practices. The FMB was created under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act in 2006. Services offered are at no cost to First Nations. For more information on all products and services, visit www.fnfmb.com
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Media Contacts:
Helen Murphy
Senior Communications Manager
First Nations Financial Management Board
P: (343) 598-2606
helen_murphy@fnfmb.com
Brian Jones
General Manager
Sumas First Nation
P: (604) 852-4041 ext. 211
Email: brian.jones@sumasfirstnation.com
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