Canadian pipeline operator Enbridge is selling a stake in its Westcoast natural gas system to a consortium of 36 First Nations, the first deal to include financing from a new federal loan program aimed at helping Indigenous groups own parts of resource projects.

Enbridge and a partnership of 36 BC First Nations inked a deal for the Indigenous groups to acquire a 12.5 percent ownership in a 3.6-Bcfd natural gas pipeline.

Enbridge said Stonlasec8 Indigenous Alliance, a group representing 36 First Nations groups in British Columbia, bought a 12.5% stake in the Westcoast natural gas pipeline system for C$715M.