July 2, 2026
The Board of Directors of Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey (MK) is honoured to announce that the legacy of the 2023 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) will continue to benefit Mi’kmaw youth for generations to come through a $1 million contribution to the Foundation for the Advancement of Mi’kmaw Education.
Following the successful hosting of the 2023 North American Indigenous Games, the Host Society exceeded its financial goals and has chosen to invest a significant portion of its legacy funds into the continued growth and development of Mi’kmaw sport in Mi’kma’ki. The funds will be entrusted to Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey through the Foundation for the Advancement of Mi’kmaw Education (FAME) to ensure lasting impact for Mi’kmaw learners and athletes across Nova Scotia.
"The 2023 North American Indigenous Games made history as the largest multi-sport and cultural eventever held in the Atlantic region, since contact, leaving a legacy of beautiful, ifelong memories for everyone involved," said 2023 NAIG Host Society Chair, Fiona Kirkpatrick Parsons. "It was also our goal as a host society to generate a surplus, with the majority of those monies being legacy funds to be invested in developing amateur Mi'kmaw sport and recreation for generationsto come. We are thrilled to share that we generated roughly double our planned amount, and that these funds are now under the excellent stewardship of Mi'kmaw Kina'matnewey and the Foundation for the Advancement of Mi'kmaw Education."
The contribution reflects the Host Society’s commitment to creating opportunities for future generations of Mi’kmaw youth, recognizing the important connection between education, wellness, culture, and sport.
“This extraordinary gift will create opportunities for Mi’kmaw youth for many years to come,” said Chief LeroyDenny, Chair of the Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey Board of Directors. “The 2023 North American Indigenous Games inspired our communities and showcased the talent and potential of Indigenous athletes from across Turtle Island. Through the Foundation for the Advancement of Mi’kmaw Education, this legacy will continue by supporting Mi’kmaw students and strengthening sport development opportunities throughout Mi’kma’ki.”
MK extends its gratitude to the 2023 NAIG Host Society Board of Directors for their vision and commitment to ensuring the Games leave a meaningful and lasting legacy in Mi’kma’ki.