Swan River First Nation (SRFN) is a Woodland Cree community and Treaty 8 signatory located along the Swan River near the south-central shore of Lesser Slave Lake, with its main administration based in Kinuso, Alberta. The Nation has a registered population of approximately 1,200 members, with a significant on-reserve presence, and is governed by an elected Chief and Council. Swan River First Nation places strong emphasis on stewardship of its lands and treaty rights while advancing community priorities such as housing, infrastructure, environmental management, and essential services that support long-term social and economic well-being.
Economically, Swan River First Nation is taking a structured, forward-looking approach to development. In 2024, the Nation formalized an Economic Development Strategy to guide investment decisions, project prioritization, and partnerships aligned with community values. Recent and emerging initiatives highlight a focus on sustainable and enabling infrastructure, including federally supported bioenergy development to provide clean heat and power for community buildings and homes, support for greenhouse and local food initiatives, and planning for improved broadband connectivity through underground fibre-optic installation. The Nation has also advanced housing development through provincial Indigenous housing programs and is exploring land-based and lakefront development opportunities tied to tourism, recreation, and mixed-use commercial potential.
Together, these initiatives position Swan River First Nation as a community with clear development direction and meaningful opportunities for collaboration across sectors such as construction, renewable and biomass energy, broadband and digital services, housing, tourism, and professional services. To learn more about Swan River First Nation and access a comprehensive economic profile—including detailed project pipelines, procurement interests, and partnership opportunities—join the ITFC network and connect directly with communities shaping sustainable, inclusive economies across Canada.