Ottawa, ON – A coalition of five national First Nations economic institutions has created a national not-for-profit organization to support First Nations businesses’ access and success in securing government and corporate procurement opportunities. The First Nations Procurement Authority (FNPA), established on May 1, 2025, will provide targeted outreach, training, and support to verified First Nations businesses interested in pursuing these opportunities.

“An institution like this is urgently needed in Canada,” says Mark Dokis, Chair of the First Nation Procurement Authority. “For too long, outdated vendor lists, lacking connections, and cumbersome processes have prevented government and corporate buyers from connecting with authentic First Nations businesses. Our goal is to reverse that trend.”

First Nations businesses are the fastest growing group of entrepreneurs in Canada yet continue to face unique barriers to entry. “Many Indigenous businesses are blocked from opportunities that others take for granted,” says Jody Anderson, a director of the FNPA. “Lack of experience with procurement processes, issues with bonding on reserves, and lingering stereotypes all limit their participation.”

Read the full statement here:
English 
French

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 22, 2025

Ottawa, ON – The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) announces its
support for a bold new pilot program promoting the participation of Indigenous communities
and businesses in Canada’s defence supply chain.

The Indigenous Defence Supply Chain Pilot is a joint initiative of NACCA and the Council for the
Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO). On May 28–29, the two Indigenous
economic organizations will bring 25 Indigenous businesses to CANSEC 2025, Canada’s leading
defence, security, and emerging technology trade show. The businesses will have an
opportunity to build relationships and profile their goods and services at CANSEC’s Indigenous
Pavillion.

“Indigenous businesses are ready, willing, and able to supply to defence projects—which are
often located on or near their territories,” says Shannin Metatawabin, NACCA’s CEO. “But the
bidding process is still complex and unfamiliar, and those essential relationships with the sector
still need to be built.”

Full English News Release Here
Communiqué de presse complet en français ici

Gatineau, QC – The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) is pleased to confirm the resounding success of the 2025 Indigenous Prosperity Forum, held on May 7 and 8 at the Hilton Lac-Leamy in Gatineau, Quebec. This was our best attended forum of the six held to date—with overwhelmingly positive feedback.    

Under the theme IGNITE Indigenous Prosperity, this year’s forum drew over 400 delegates. Indigenous lenders, economic thought leaders, and entrepreneurs came together with partners and policy makers to highlight advances in Indigenous economic self-determination.  This year included international participation, with Indigenous representation from an expert with 35 years experience supporting Māori tribes, landowner organizations, and businesses in New Zealand.  

 The two-day event featured dynamic keynote addresses—including a message from Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak—as well as active participation of Indigenous youth business owners and NACCA’s youth advisory council.   

Read the full English Press Release here.

May 14, 2025
For immediate release

Ottawa, ON, – The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) is thrilled to announce its ten-year funding agreement with Indigenous Services Canada. The first of its kind between the federal government and an Indigenous economic organization, the agreement signed on May 5, 2025, represents a milestone on Canada’s journey to a transformed fiscal relationship with Indigenous peoples.

“This agreement testifies to the proven value of the Indigenous Financial Institutions network and the deepening trust of our government partner,” says Shannin Metatawabin, NACCA’s Chief Executive Officer. “Providing an average of $83 million per year, the funds will enable our long-established network of 50+ developmental lenders to continue promoting jobs, services, and empowerment for businesses in Indigenous communities across the country.”

Read the full English Press Release here

NACCA CEO, Shannin Metatawabin, will lead a panel of top experts in the Indigenous Economy at the Canada 2020 Economic Reconciliation Summit on April 1, 2025, in Ottawa, CANADA. This event is a cornerstone in advancing meaningful conversations and actionable strategies toward economic reconciliation in Canada. 

The summit will bring together Indigenous innovators, community leaders, policy makers and industry experts to explore best practices in trade, economic development, and policymaking. Its highlights the vital role of Indigenous leadership in building sustainable prosperity and fostering economic reconciliation across the country.  

As a champion of Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic sovereignty, Shannin is committed to advancing initiatives that remove barriers, create opportunities, and drive long-term resilience for Indigenous communities. His participation underscores NACCA’s dedication Indigenous-led solutions that contribute to Canada’s economic future. 

Learn more about the event here: The Indigenous-Led Economy – Canada 2020 

Livestream on April 1st 8:45 AM-4:45 PM here: The Indigenous-led Economy: 2025 Economic Reconciliation Summit 

In today’s uncertain global economy, where U.S. tariffs and volatility are straining Canada’s bottom line, a powerful solution lies in plain sight: supporting and investing in the Indigenous economy. 

The Indigenous Prosperity Forum 2025 

The Indigenous Prosperity Forum 2025 is a national gathering of Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, thought leaders and innovators from coast to coast to coast. More than a conference, it is a catalyst for shared vision, collaborative growth, and nation-building through economic reconciliation. 

Indigenous Economic Development: Canada’s Opportunity 

Economic reconciliation is more than recognition, it’s a pathway to self-determination, prosperity, and sustainable growth for Indigenous communities. Across the country, Indigenous entrepreneurs are launching and expanding businesses that generate employment, foster innovation, and support local economies. 

And so much more opportunity remains. From improved procurement practices in the federal government to increased and achievable access to capital and visibility. Indigenous-owned businesses continue to be underrepresented in Canada’s economic landscape, yet they are growing and succeeding every day. 

That’s where NACCA and a national network of over 50 Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) come in. For nearly four decades, NACCA’s network has provided culturally grounded financing, business support, and training to help Indigenous entrepreneurs succeed. 

With renewed investment, NACCA is expanding key Indigenous-led programs, including: 

• The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program
• The Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneurship Program
• A new Youth Entrepreneurship initiative

These initiatives are turning ideas into enterprises, aspirations into opportunities, and communities become places where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive. 

What to Expect at the Forum 

The Indigenous Prosperity Forum 2025 will focus on the key themes which in essence is intended to “Ignite Indigenous Prosperity”. 

• Procurement reform by Indigenous and for Indigenous
• Youth-led innovation
• Indigenous Tourism experiences
• Indigenous economic solutions for Canada
• Capacity building and financial empowerment
• Community-based investing and partnerships

Attendees will hear from influential Indigenous thought leaders, economic experts, entrepreneurs and policy advocates who are shaping a more inclusive and resilient Canadian economy. 

Buy Indigenous: A Meaningful Step Toward Reconciliation 

As NACCA CEO Shannin Metatawabin recently wrote: 

“Buying Indigenous and implementing the means required is a meaningful step toward reconciliation. It’s time to realize the vision of our ancestors, both First Nations and non-Indigenous people, prospering via economic exchange.” 

Ignite Indigenous Prosperity 

At its core, the Indigenous Prosperity Forum is a space for connection, collaboration, and forward-thinking. It brings together those who believe in the power of Indigenous leadership, inclusive growth, and community-driven prosperity. 

Be part of Canada’s economic transformation. Register now at naccaforum.com/register 

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, it’s crucial to recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements of Indigenous women entrepreneurs in Canada. These trailblazers are not only building successful businesses but also strengthening their communities and paving the way for future generations.

Celebrating the success of our IWE National Gathering last fall. Indigenous women entrepreneurs came together to share experiences, build connections, and inspire each other.
“As the Director of Strategy & Partnerships and Manager of the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship (IWE) Program at NACCA, I am profoundly moved by the incredible energy, strength, and authenticity shared at this year’s IWE National Gathering. Attendees spoke of an experience that was welcoming, empowering, uplifting, and unlike any other event they’ve attended. Each speaker and participant added their unique voice, weaving together a vibrant and dynamic network of experiences and aspirations. The connections made here go beyond networking—they are the seeds of future collaborations and the foundation of a powerful community. Here’s to the courage and resilience of Indigenous women entrepreneurs and to the transformative impact of our shared stories and support.” 

The Rise of Indigenous Women in Entrepreneurship 

Recent data shows an inspiring trend: Indigenous women are increasingly embracing entrepreneurship. In fact, 23.2% of Indigenous business owners are women, surpassing the percentage of non-Indigenous women business owners at 19.5%. This growth is a testament to their resilience, innovation, and determination. 

Empowering Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs 

NACCA’s Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs Program has made significant strides in supporting these business leaders: let’s highlight some key statistics from NACCA’s Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs (IWE) Program, based on our 2024 Client Survey: 

• 50 Indigenous financial institutions across Canada are involved 
• Over 450 microloans have been disbursed 
• More than 1,000 women in urban, rural, and remote locations have been supported 

Check out the full infographic here in English or in French. 

The Impact of Indigenous Women’s Entrepreneurship 

The success of Indigenous women entrepreneurs extends far beyond their individual businesses. Survey results show that their entrepreneurial endeavors have positively impacted: 

• Family income levels 
• Employment and working conditions 
• Social supports and coping skills 

Challenges and Opportunities 

While progress has been made, Indigenous women entrepreneurs still face unique challenges. Access to financing remains a top concern, with many relying on personal savings to start their businesses. NACCA is committed to addressing these barriers and providing tailored support to help Indigenous women achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. 

NACCA’s Commitment to Gender Parity 

The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) is proud to support this positive momentum. As part of our commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, NACCA has joined the Government of Canada’s 50 – 30 Challenge. This initiative aims to achieve gender parity (50% women and/or non-binary individuals) and significant representation (30%) of other underrepresented groups in senior management positions. 

Looking Ahead 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s recognize the vital role that Indigenous women entrepreneurs play in Canada’s economic landscape. Their success not only drives economic growth but also promotes cultural preservation and community well-being. 

NACCA remains dedicated to supporting Indigenous women entrepreneurs through targeted programs, financing options, and mentorship opportunities. Together, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.