Practical tools, infrastructure, and expertise to help First Nations strengthen data governance and apply data in decision-making.
Strengthening Data for Governance
The BC Regional Information Governance Centre (BC RIGC) supports First Nations in British Columbia to strengthen how data are used in governance.
We help Nations access, organize, and apply their data to support planning, decision-making, service delivery, and accountability. This includes developing digital infrastructure, providing practical tools, and building capacity in ways that reflect Nation priorities.
Data is more than technical work — it is a core part of governance. When Nations have reliable, Nation-controlled data, they are better equipped to plan for the future, deliver programs, and make decisions on their own terms.
Explore how the BC RIGC works alongside Nations to put data into practice.
Why This Work Matters
Approximately one-third of First Nations in Canada are located in BC. However, many Nations are working within fragmented data environments shaped by external reporting requirements and chronic underinvestment in data systems. Data is not just technical work. It is foundational to governance, planning, service delivery, and cultural continuity.
When data systems are coherent, accessible, and governed according to Nation priorities, they support better decisions, clearer accountability, and long-term community well-being. Strong governance requires strong information.
How We Support Nations
First Nations begin their data governance journeys from different places. Some are building foundational systems, while others are strengthening existing governance practices or expanding their use of data in decision-making.
Our work reflects a “developing by doing” philosophy. We build alongside Nations, refining tools and approaches through real governance work. We provide support across several areas:
Assess Capacity
Understand your current data governance capacity through a structured needs assessment that produces an action plan and draws resources from our library of tools.
Strengthen Governance
Access practical tools, templates, and guidance aligned with your Nation’s governance goals and responsibilities.
Build Infrastructure
Implement secure digital infrastructure through the BC RIGC’s data platform, the Build Your Own Data Centre.
This essential digital infrastructure offers Nations an accessible, First Nations–owned platform to support data governance, day-to-day administration, and Nation rebuilding.
Use Data for Decisions
Apply your Nation’s data to inform programs, planning, and coordination with other governments.
See data in action and learn more about how we’re supporting data sovereignty and Nation rebuilding across BC through Nation-led Data Demonstration projects.