Tsartlip First Nation Achieves Highest Financial Certification from FMB
By Nikhil Nikhil | Published May 6, 2026
W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip) First Nation has reached a significant milestone in its journey toward stronger governance and economic independence by securing the highest level of financial certification offered by the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB).
Located on the Saanich Peninsula, the Tsartlip First Nation recently earned Financial Management System (FMS) certification, a designation that confirms the community’s financial and administrative practices align with internationally recognized standards. This achievement underscores the Nation’s dedication to accountability, transparency, and sustainable fiscal management.
Chief Curtis Olsen expressed pride in the Nation’s accomplishment, emphasizing the importance of this certification for community confidence. “We pursued FMS certification because it is important that W̱JOȽEȽP has strong financial systems in place and that our members can have confidence in how the Nation’s finances are managed,” he stated.
The certification process standardizes financial policies, enhances reporting procedures, and facilitates clearer long-term financial planning, according to Chief Olsen. “It also gives W̱JOȽEȽP more room to move on priorities that are important to our community,” he added.
The FMB, established under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act in 2006, is a First Nations-led non-profit organization that supports Indigenous communities in strengthening financial governance. Notably, this support is provided at no cost to the communities.
Chief Olsen credited the achievement to the dedicated efforts of the Nation’s finance and administration teams, acknowledging contributions from staff in finance, human resources, and operations who played a vital role in reaching this milestone.
The certification arrives at a time when W̱JOȽEȽP is actively expanding its economic and infrastructure initiatives. Tsartlip’s main business operations, including Tsartlip Fuel and Convenience, function under the umbrella of the Tsartlip Group of Companies. Current projects include renovations to the administration building, upgrades to a community boat ramp, and an active transportation initiative aimed at enhancing accessibility within the community.
Addressing housing needs remains a top priority for the Nation. Efforts such as a housing pilot project are underway to respond to local requirements and improve living conditions for members.
Situated near Brentwood Bay, W̱JOȽEȽP is one of five communities that comprise the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation. The community has more than 1,000 registered members living both on and off reserve.
According to the FMB, achieving this certification is a pivotal development as Tsartlip First Nation advances its path toward economic self-determination and sustainable growth.
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