Founder & Managing Director, Pinel & Associates

John built Pinel & Associates to do what he does best—help Indigenous Nations, non-profits, and environmental organizations secure funding, develop governance structures, and create lasting, effective policies. His work has taken him from Indigenous fishing rights advocacy in British Columbia to natural resource management research at the London School of Economics, shaping a career dedicated to self-determination, conservation, and economic sustainability.

Mentored early on by Aboriginal rights lawyer Richard Salter, John worked alongside the Semiahmoo First Nation and Musqueam Indian Band in the 1990s, supporting efforts in community-led governance and resource stewardship. His later PhD research at LSE explored natural resource management challenges in Indigenous communities across Central and North America, a focus that has defined his work ever since.

Over the past 25 years, he has helped organizations secure funding for hospitals, schools, and conservation projects, advised on policy and governance, and led award-winning education initiatives. His contributions have been recognized with Major League Soccer’s Community MVP Award for education advocacy and the Titmuss Prize from LSE for social policy research.

At Pinel & Associates, John has gathered a team of specialists and high-level generalists, ensuring that funding strategies, governance structures, and policy solutions work together seamlessly. His focus remains the same: practical solutions, financial stability, and policies that support long-term sustainability.

Connect with John and the Pinel & Associates team to learn how we can support your mission.