Evaluation and Implementation of the Mental Wellness Strategic Action Plan for First Nations in the Atlantic Region

The Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat (APC) is inviting proposals from qualified consultants and evaluators to support the evaluation and implementation of the Mental Wellness Strategic Action Plan for First Nations in the Atlantic Region.

Mental wellness continues to be a top priority for Atlantic First Nations leadership. This initiative represents an important step toward strengthening culturally grounded, community-driven approaches to mental health and addictions services, while ensuring programs reflect the priorities, experiences, and knowledge of First Nations communities.

Purpose of the Request for Proposals

APC is seeking a consultant or evaluation team to facilitate engagement sessions with First Nations communities across the Atlantic region. These engagement sessions will help identify key strategic priorities, recommended best practices, and culturally appropriate approaches to mental wellness, mental health, and addictions services.

A particular focus of this work will include exploring youth treatment needs and identifying preferred service models that support a continuum of care. Insights gathered through community engagement will be documented and shared with APC’s Mental Wellness Committee to help guide future planning and implementation efforts.

This work will be conducted using an Indigenous evaluation framework, or an evaluation approach that can be adapted to reflect Indigenous knowledge, community priorities, and culturally safe methodologies.

About the Atlantic Policy Congress

The Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat is a policy and research organization that works on behalf of Mi’kmaq, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy, and Innu communities in the Atlantic region. APC collaborates with First Nations leadership, communities, and partners to support initiatives that strengthen health, well-being, and self-determination.

Mental wellness remains a key priority identified by Atlantic Chiefs, and this evaluation will help ensure ongoing programs are effective, responsive, and aligned with community needs.

Scope of Work
The selected consultant or team will:

• Facilitate engagement sessions with First Nations communities
• Identify priorities, best practices, and opportunities to strengthen mental wellness services
• Apply Indigenous-informed evaluation methodologies
• Review existing strategies, indicators, and relevant materials
• Document findings, lessons learned, and recommendations
• Support the development and implementation of a strengthened Mental Wellness Strategic Action Plan

This work will be conducted collaboratively with APC, First Nations communities, and key partners.

Important Dates

• Issue Date: February 24, 2026
• Submission Deadline: March 16, 2026 at 12:00 PM (AST)
• Anticipated Evaluation Completion: March 18, 2026
• Anticipated Contract Start: March 23, 2026

Who Should Apply

APC encourages proposals from Indigenous evaluators, consultants, and organizations, as well as those with demonstrated experience working respectfully and effectively alongside First Nations communities.

Applicants should have:

• Experience conducting program evaluations
• Knowledge of mental wellness, mental health, and addictions services
• Familiarity with Indigenous evaluation frameworks and culturally safe methodologies
• Strong engagement and facilitation skills
• Experience working collaboratively with First Nations communities

How to Apply

Interested consultants and organizations are invited to review the full Request for Proposals document and submit their proposal before the closing deadline.

The complete RFP includes detailed information about the project scope, submission requirements, and evaluation criteria.

This is an important opportunity to contribute to work that supports mental wellness, strengthens community-driven solutions, and helps guide future initiatives across First Nations communities in the Atlantic region.

For full details, please review the complete RFP document or contact APC for additional information.