OTTAWA, June 13, 2019 /CNW/ - The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) welcomes yesterday's announcement from the Government of Canada supporting social finance initiatives for Indigenous entrepreneurs. NACCA is one of only four Readiness Support Partners, and is now in position to launch its Indigenous Growth Fund to support First Nations, Inuit and Métis entrepreneurs and communities across Canada.

Indigenous people share their fellow Canadians' aspiration for a prosperous and healthy future. "Business development is critical to the well-being of any community, including Indigenous communities," said Shannin Metatawabin, Chief Executive Officer of NACCA, which represents over 50 Aboriginal Financial Institutions. "Despite tremendous odds and distinct barriers, Indigenous businesses create jobs and opportunities in our communities right across Canada."

NACCA is working to help Indigenous people achieve their aspirations. It has advocated tirelessly for a renewed and meaningful investment in the network of Aboriginal Financial Institutions that provide developmental lending and business support services to Indigenous businesses across Canada.

Budget 2019 identified a $100 million investment for NACCA's Indigenous Growth Fund. Today, the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, approved additional support of $3.1 million to NACCA under the Investment Readiness Program at Employment and Social Development Canada. This announcement, confirming the Government's priority to support social innovation and social finance, will ensure that NACCA is resourced to successfully launch the Indigenous Growth Fund. More importantly, it will also ensure that its network of Aboriginal Financial Institutions is better positioned to support businesses in their communities, including the development of community-based social enterprise.

Indigenous businesses are a key driver of employment, wealth creation and better socio-economic outcomes for Indigenous people and communities. They are crucial to achieving greater inclusion in the prosperity of this country. NACCA, through the network of Aboriginal Financial Institutions, is a logical vehicle to deliver economic development programs and funds to the Indigenous Peoples from coast to coast to coast.

For more information about NACCA and the network of Aboriginal Financial Institutions, please visit our website at NACCA.ca and follow us on social media at @NACCAinfo.

For more information about the Government of Canada's Social Finance Fund and the Investment Readiness Program, please visit https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/news/2019/06/backgrounder-investment-readiness-program-funding-recipients.html

For further information: please contact:
André Jetté, Communications Manager, ajette@nacca.ca, 613-688-0894, Ext 506;
Shannin Metatawabin, CEO, ceo@nacca.ca, 613-688-0894, Ext 517

Christopher Ashkewe joins NACCA as Program Manager

Ottawa ON, May 30, 2019  -  The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) is pleased to announce that Christopher Ashkewe has joined the team at NACCA as Program Manager.

Christopher Ashkewe is Anishanaabe, Bear Clan, from the Chippewas of Nawash.  Mr. Ashkewe attended the Queens International Study Centre in Herstmonceaux England and completed his studies at McMaster University.  Since graduation, Mr. Ashkewe has dedicated his professional career toward the activation of economic development opportunities for Indigenous communities and people.   Starting at the BMO Aboriginal Banking Unit, Mr. Ashkewe has worked for Aboriginal Business Canada, MNCFN Toronto Pan Am Games Committee and most recently with private equity firms to place capital in Indigenous solar, infrastructure and new business developments.  Chris is a proud father to Wilson Ashkewe.

NACCA CEO Shannin Metatawabin is enthusiastic about this latest addition to his team.  “This is a great add for us, and shows that NACCA and the AFI network are attractive options to top Indigenous talent who want to make a difference.”

As Program Manager, Christopher and his team will deliver and innovate the Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program to the network of 59 Aboriginal Financial Institutions across the country.   He takes over the duties from Mark Dokis, who will continue with NACCA on special projects.

Please join us in welcoming Christopher Ashkewe to the NACCA team.