The Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) is inviting proposals for new community mental health services through its 2026-27 Community Mental Health Pilot Program.

NAN plans to select three successful applicants to implement time-limited community mental health initiatives within NAN territory, with up to $800,000 in total funding available. Each pilot could receive approximately $266,667.

According to the request for proposals, applicants must demonstrate that they can become operational quickly and responsibly within the remaining fiscal year, and:

• Establish a practical community mental health program model that responds to an identified need, service gap and target population within one or more NAN first Nations.
• Deliver accessible, culturally grounded and trauma-informed mental health supports through direct programming, prevention and early intervention, outreach, navigation, counselling or wellness supports, service coordination, continuity of care, or another community-defined approach.
• Strengthen local capacity and service pathways while demonstrating what was implemented, who was reached, what changed, what challenges remain, and whether the model should continue or expand beyond the pilot period.

The request for proposals will remain open for a minimum of 10 business days following its posting, until October 31.

Questions and proposal submissions can be directed to NAN Health Policy and Advocacy at rfphealth@nan.ca.