Thunder Bay Hosts First Nations Housing Conference

Thunder Bay Hosts 2025 First Nations Housing Conference

THUNDER BAY — Addressing communication gaps and fostering collaboration to improve housing in Indigenous communities are key goals of a three-day conference taking place in Thunder Bay this week.

The 2025 First Nations Housing Conference runs from Feb. 4 to 6 at the Valhalla Hotel and Conference Centre, bringing together experts, housing professionals, community leaders, government representatives, builders, contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders. The event aims to enhance housing solutions for First Nations.

“We want to hear from home occupants and community members,” said Clarence Meekis, a conference planning committee member and public works manager with Keewaytinook Okimakanak. “Too often, housing decisions are made through government-administered or top-down approaches. Our goal is to listen to those directly affected and address communication and procedural challenges to improve housing access.”

The conference welcomes attendees from both Indigenous communities and off-reserve populations, Meekis added.

Over three days, participants will engage in presentations and workshops covering topics such as building codes, construction contracts, strategic planning, fire safety, electricity, power infrastructure, carpentry, and apprenticeship training. Organizations like Nishnawbe Aski Nation, the Assembly of First Nations, and Chiefs of Ontario are also featured in the program.

Additionally, the event includes a trade show with over 70 exhibitors, a “builders challenge” focusing on Indigenous youth—featuring celebrity renovator Jon Eakes—and recognition awards for recently completed housing projects.

Now in its 22nd year, the conference began in Northwestern Ontario in the early 2000s through local tribal council initiatives and has since expanded significantly. “In the past five years, it has grown into a national event,” Meekis noted. “Its reputation stems from its focus on home occupants, not just industry professionals. It brings together stakeholders from all aspects of housing.”

Meekis emphasized the conference’s broad relevance. “There’s something for everyone,” he said. “We aim to provide practical, achievable information to empower community members in their housing planning and development efforts.”