The FSIN Urban Development Department was established in 1996 in accordance with the 1996 Protocol Agreement regarding urban services and programs. Through the Protocol the FSIN was charged with the responsibility of coordinating the Protocol but more importantly, coordinating urban services and programs across the province.

The Tribal/Grand/Agency Councils signatory to the Protocol agreed to deliver programs and services for all First Nations people residing in their geographic areas. Decision making committees in urban centers have been in place for the last number of years to involve urban First Nations people.

The Urban Development office also hosts quarterly Urban Development Committee meetings. The primary objective of these meetings is to cooperate in the development and implementation of programs and services applicable to the special needs of all Saskatchewan First Nations people residing on off- reserve lands, within the respective Tribal/Grand/Agency Council’s jurisdiction.

The Urban Development Department does not deliver programs nor services but develops with Tribal/Grand/Agency Councils and First Nations programming that expands the capacity of that entity.