First Nations University of Canada will be tightening its belt to deal with a $1.2-million deficit.

The Regina-based university's board of governors recently announced a strategy to students, staff and faculty.

Ten positions are open at the institution, but officials say they won't be filled in an effort to save $400,000 in wages.

They range from full-time teaching positions to student service help and janitorial jobs.

Other cuts include a travelling freeze and some program mergers.

The university estimates these measures will reduce the deficit from $1.2 million to slightly more than $100,000.

Al Ducharme, vice-president of administration and finance, said if the federal Indian and Northern Affairs Department would come through with "top-up funding," this plan could be reversed.

Ducharme is hoping that within the next few months, the university will be successful in its negotiations to make that happen.

"We think we have a tremendous case to present to them," Ducharme said. "How can they deny the First Nations University that funding? We have a role to play in Canada's economy, we have a role to play in Saskatchewan's economy. We will contribute."

Gaylene Anaquod, a spokeswoman for Indian and Northern Affairs, said no decision will be made around additional funding until the department receives a business plan from the institution.

"The request for a business plan to address the gaps, it's been a couple of years," she said.

The university said the plan is done and will be submitted soon. Until then, school officials say, fundraising measures are also being considered.