The full-time, cooperative, 24-month Indigenous Financial Management Apprenticeship Program (IFMAP) seeks to empower Indigenous individuals interested in finance and increase Indigenous representation in financial roles within the federal public service and broader finance community. It offers a comprehensive blend of education and hands-on professional experience. Through full-time employment with the federal government on a 24-month term, IFMAP is designed to enable its apprentices to build essential skills for junior financial roles and/or uplift financial literacy within their communities. Ultimately, the IFMAP is intended to serve as a launchpad for a financial career in public, private or non-profit organizations. Successful apprentices will complete two years of post-secondary education. This program is aimed at individuals committed to advancing their careers in financial management while balancing full-time work and academic responsibilities.

• • Experience: Apprentices will gain on-the-job experience within federal departments such Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC), working alongside key financial teams on significant projects. They will spend 30-37.5 hours each week working in key financial areas such as accounting, operations, resource management, and financial systems.
  • Education: Apprentices will complete seven courses as part of AFOA Canada’s Indigenous Financial Management Certificate (IFMC) program. These courses are delivered through a partnership with Simon Fraser University (SFU) and AFOA Canada. The courses cover key areas such as financial accounting, business communications, and Indigenous business law, ensuring a well-rounded educational foundation. Paid leave is provided (up to 7.5 hours per week) which may be allocated specifically for educational and personal development.
  • Support: Ongoing support, including coordination and cultural counselling, will be available to apprentices throughout the program and after it’s completion. In addition to education and work-specific support, each apprentice will have a financial professional mentor to provide oversight and advice.

IFMAP offers the potential for its apprentices to work in a combination of remote, hybrid, and/or in-office work settings subject to prescribed work postures.

IFMAP offers training in financial management under the close supervision of experienced professionals. Current key responsibilities may include processing accounts receivable and payable transactions, reviewing financial transactions, financial analysis, and financial policy research. The program is designed to develop skills in financial management domains such as accounting and financial systems.

Applicants must have a secondary school diploma or equivalent. Bilingualism is an asset (English and French). There may be a need for occasional travel, and a Reliability Status security clearance is required​.

• • Applicants must self-identify as Indigenous.
  • Applicants must hold a High school diploma or an equivalency certificate.
  • Those who possess a 2-year post-secondary diploma or higher are not eligible to apply for this program.
  • A strong interest in financial management and a commitment to balancing full-time work with ongoing education.

To apply as an apprentice in the IFMAP program, please submit the following:

• • Expression of Interest Form or Cover Letter: Explain your interest in the program and how it aligns with your career goals.
  • Resume/CV: Provide a current resume or CV that outlines your educational background, work experience, and any other relevant qualifications.
  • Educational Diplomas/Certifications: Please include copies of any relevant qualifications (including high school diploma or equivalency).

AFOA Canada will review applicants for acceptance to the IFMAP program, followed by the hosting government organizations, who will identify candidates for further advancement in the job recruitment process. Successful applicants will be notified of their acceptance into IFMAP, by early 2025. Note successful applicants will also be required to provide a reference letter from a community member or elder, as per Simon Fraser University’s admission requirements.

Click here for the French version.

APPLICATION DEADLINE IS NOVEMBER 22, 2024 AT 11:59 PM ET.

For more information on the Indigenous Financial Management Certificate, please visit: https://afoa.ca/education/certifications/cafm/certificate/