Updates & Events

February 27, 2024

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS ECONOMIC ORGANIZATIONS SPEARHEAD FIRST NATIONS PROCUREMENT ORGANIZATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ottawa, Ontario – Five national Indigenous economic organizations have banded together with full support of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) to create a first of its kind, First Nations Procurement Organization (FNPO).

The organizations gathered on December 6, 2023, to establish this groundbreaking initiative to help First Nations peoples and businesses overcome systemic barriers in accessing federal procurement opportunities. The FNPO will also help ensure Canada meets its minimum five percent Indigenous procurement target by measuring progress and data.

The federal government spends approximately $22 billion every year procuring goods and services from businesses across Canada. Currently, less than one percent of that spend goes towards Indigenous businesses.

The FNPO brings together organizations and leadership from within the First Nations economic landscape from coast to coast to coast. With support from AFN, the group includes AFOA Canada, the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO), First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA), First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB), and the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA).

This historic collaboration of founding members can now begin the journey of design and the ultimate implementation of programming to foster self-sustainability among First Nations communities across Canada. The launch of the organization is fully endorsed and supported by a resolution passed by First Nations elected leaders at the Assembly of First Nations General Assembly in July 2023. The FNPO is championed by a united coalition of First Nation partner organizations, representing an unprecedented alliance aimed at igniting transformative change. With unwavering dedication, the FNPO is poised to become a catalyst for monumental change in the procurement ecosystem and economic growth within First Nation communities.

“This initiative embodies a beacon of hope, symbolizing the collective strength and determination of First Nations representatives united in their resolve to bridge the economic disparities that have long persisted,” says NACCA CEO Shannin Metatawabin. “The FNPO stands as a testament to Indigenous ingenuity and resilience, paving the way towards a future where economic parity and prosperity are realized by First Nations, fostering a landscape of opportunity across Canada.”.

First Nations businesses showcase resilience in navigating barriers while striving to engage fully in procurement opportunities. These entrepreneurs encounter systemic biases embedded within the existing procurement ecosystem and to be successful in bidding opportunities, must overcome multi-faceted administrative challenges, and seek enhanced tools empowering them to address intricate government requests.

“Government procurement is designed to be risk-averse, which means that it’s hard for companies to win contracts unless they have historically worked with the government,” said Jean Vincent, chair of the NACCA Board of Directors. We know this excludes many First Nations businesses and we know it makes meeting the five percent procurement target challenging. However, through this organization, and by working together collaboratively for the good of the First Nations economy, we know we will create huge impacts that benefit everyone.

Structure and design are the priority for the FNPO, and the organization will work directly with the federal government to secure funding for the first five years of operation. Once operational, the process of supporting First Nations businesses to participate in procurement opportunities will begin.

Media Contact:

Joël Lamoureux

Communications Manager NACCA

jlamoureux@nacca.ca

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QUOTES

AFOA CANADA – “Through the establishment of this Indigenous Procurement Organization, we are not just shaping an economic landscape; we are honoring the principles of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.” says Terry Goodtrack, President, and CEO, AFOA Canada. “ We are creating a culturally relevant Indigenous Institution that paves the way for Indigenous peoples to participate in the economic opportunities in Canada”

Terry Goodtrack, President/CEO, AFOA Canada

FNFA – “The creation of the First Nations Procurement Organization is an important step towards gaining traction to meet the five per cent procurement target, set by the federal government, with an achievement date of 2030. As First Nations businesses begin to meaningfully participate in the procurement process, our hope is that First Nation communities across Canada experience monumental growth that improves the quality of lives of Indigenous Peoples.”

Ernie Daniels, President and CEO, First Nations Finance Authority

FMB – “We are pleased to see a new First Nations Procurement Organization take shape. Many Indigenous organizations are collaborating to improve economic opportunities for First Nations across Canada. Increasing and strengthening procurement opportunities is a step on the pathway toward economic reconciliation.”

Harold Calla, Executive Chair, First Nations Financial Management Board

About the FNPO
Innovative Membership Model

The founding members envision an innovative membership model for FNPO where potential purchasers—including government and corporations—pay fees to access essential services and business databases. Certified First Nation businesses will be able to register at no cost. FNPOs revenue streams will include corporate memberships, training, and events.

FNPOs Mission and Vision:

The FNPO will serve as a central hub, offering culturally appropriate wraparound services via a single point of contact for First Nation procurement needs. Its mission is clear: maximize the potential for First Nations’ businesses to successfully access and win procurement opportunities through certification, networking, education, and promotion.

This mission will also enable the federal government to reach its minimum five (5) percent Indigenous procurement target.

Membership Structure and Streams of Services:

FNPOs membership structure will prioritize free services for certified First Nations businesses, while government and corporate clients will pay a membership fee. The institute will offer four streams of services:

  • First Nation Business Certification and Directory: A comprehensive database for the federal government and companies to access all certified First Nations businesses and suppliers.
  • Networking, Collaboration, and Partnerships: Creating space and opportunity for networking and relationship building, allowing First Nations businesses to foster connections with both government and corporations.
  • Educational Services and Training: Building capacity and understanding of complex government procurement processes.
  • Promotion of First Nation Procurement: Advocacy, events, and tools to foster mutually beneficial relationships.
February 21, 2024

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: February 21, 2024

Indigenous Prosperity Foundation Announces Inaugural Board of Directors

The Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) proudly unveils its inaugural Board of Directors, a crucial milestone in advancing Indigenous empowerment and economic prosperity.

Established by the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) in collaboration with Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) across Canada, IPF is dedicated to supporting underserved Indigenous women, youth, and early-stage entrepreneurs through initiatives focused on training, mentorship, Internet and technology access, seed capital, and capacity building.

The board comprises distinguished leaders committed to addressing systemic barriers and unlocking the full potential of Indigenous entrepreneurship, guiding IPF on its transformative journey.

Indigenous Prosperity Foundation Announces Inaugural Board of DirectorsBobbie Racette: As the inaugural Chair of IPF’s Board of Directors, Bobbie Racette brings visionary leadership and extensive entrepreneurial experience. Her role as the Founder and CEO of Virtual Gurus and VG OnDemand exemplifies her commitment to equity and inclusivity, aligning seamlessly with IPF’s mission of empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and fostering economic prosperity.

Jennifer Sloan: With vast expertise in governance, government relations, media, and stakeholder management, Jennifer Sloan, Mastercard Canada‘s Senior VP of Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement, plays a crucial role on the IPF Board. Her diverse background in leadership and advocacy, along with board service at organizations like the Canadian American Business Council and Music Canada, underscores her commitment to driving social impact and economic empowerment for underserved communities.

Sharon Redsky: A Shoal Lake #40 First Nation member and principal of Redsky Fundraising, Sharon Redsky brings extensive experience in fundraising, proposal development, and partnership building to IPF’s Board of Directors. Her recent completion of a Master Certificate in Project Management and a Certificate in Indigenous Evaluation further enriches her capacity to drive impactful change within Indigenous communities.

Abdullah Snobar: Abdullah Snobar brings a wealth of expertise in entrepreneurship and innovation cultivated through his roles as the Executive Director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures. With a track record of supporting over 820 startups to raise $2.58 billion in capital, Abdullah’s leadership is poised to drive impactful change within IPF, addressing underrepresentation in entrepreneurship and fostering economic growth.

Keith Matthew: Dedicated to fostering economic self-sufficiency for Indigenous communities, Keith Matthew’s roles as CEO of Seklep Business Services and Board Director of NACCA provide invaluable insights into economic development, governance, and community leadership.

These esteemed individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise in governance, entrepreneurship, economic development, technology, fundraising, and advocacy, which will be invaluable in guiding IPF’s mission to foster Indigenous prosperity and empowerment.

“As Chair of the Board, my vision for the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation is to build a future on our own terms, where Indigenous entrepreneurs lead the way to prosperity for our communities,” said Bobbie Racette, IPF Board Chair. “Together, we will forge paths of success rooted in our unique strengths, culture, and values.”

Under the leadership of the Inaugural Board of Directors, IPF is poised to unite donors and funders to uplift Indigenous people and communities through entrepreneur-led economic development.

“It is with great pride and excitement that we welcome the inaugural Board of Directors of Indigenous Prosperity Foundation,” said Shannin Metatawabin, CEO of NACCA. “Their leadership will be crucial in empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs and building a prosperous future for Indigenous communities. We extend our heartfelt thanks to each Director for stepping up to this important role.”

IPF invites individuals, organizations, and partners to join its empowerment mission by becoming donors, volunteering or spreading awareness by visiting indigenousfoundation.ca.

About Indigenous Prosperity Foundation

The Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) is a charitable organization established by the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) and Indigenous Financial Institutions across Canada. IPF’s mission centres on fostering success and empowerment among underserved Indigenous women, youth, and early-stage entrepreneurs across Canada by providing training, mentorship, access to technology, internet and seed grants to ensure accessibility and equity while building capacity within the Indigenous economic development ecosystem. Learn more and get involved at indigenousfoundation.ca.

For media inquiries and to book interviews with IPF’s Inaugural Board Directors, please contact Joël Lamoureux at info@indigenousfoundation.ca or (613) 316-4089.

December 11, 2023

CAREER OPPORTUNITY – Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship – Youth Coordinator

NACCA, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association, is a network of over 50 Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) dedicated to stimulating economic growth for all Indigenous people in Canada. NACCA’s goal is to provide opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and increase prosperity for Indigenous people in Canada. Continue reading

November 21, 2023

CAREER OPPORTUNITY – AEP SUPPORT OFFICER

NACCA, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association, is a network of over 50 Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) dedicated to stimulating economic growth for all Indigenous people in Canada. NACCA’s goal is to provide opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and increase prosperity for Indigenous people in Canada.

The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program (AEP) encompasses four key initiatives: The Aboriginal Business Financing Program (ABFP), the Aboriginal Capacity Development Program (ACDP), the Aboriginal Developmental Lending Assistance (ADLA) Program, and the Interest Rate Buy-Down (IRB) Program. These initiatives aim to facilitate Indigenous business development by providing financial support, optimizing lending efficiency, enhancing sustainability, and addressing capital challenges through equity, educational, support, compensation for loan losses, and interest rate subsidies for IFIs.

APPLY NOW

October 24, 2023

Conference Board of Canada Social Impact Report 2023

Leveraging its long history in gathering and analyzing program and lending data from Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs), the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) engaged the Conference Board of Canada (CBoC), the foremost applied research institution in Canada, to assess core data gathered during the five years from 2016-17 to 2020-21. This data set represents a sizable share of the IFI ecosystem’s lending and funding activities during that period, but it is not exhaustive. The CBoC Report set out to identify and measure the crucial role that IFIs and their national association play in driving Indigenous economic development, wealth creation, and improving social outcomes for Indigenous peoples in the face of numerous systemic barriers.

READ THE FULL REPORT

READ THE SUMMARY REPORT

September 27, 2023

CAREER OPPORTUNITY – Human Resources Manager (Mat Leave)

NACCA, the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association, is a network of over 50 Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) dedicated to stimulating economic growth for all Indigenous people in Canada. NACCA’s goal is to provide opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and increase prosperity for Indigenous people in Canada.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Human Resource Manager to provide maternity leave coverage. This is a temporary role with an estimated duration of one year.
The Human Resources Manager will lead and direct the functions of the Human Resources (HR) department including recruitment and selection, labour and employee relations, total rewards, performance management, and organizational development.

APPLY NOW

August 3, 2023

FREE WEBINAR – Hosted by EDC (Social & Business Impact)

EDC Webinar: The social and business impact of supplier diversity

Learn how to implement a supplier diversity program and how it can stimulate your business growth by attending EDC’s upcoming webinar, The social and business impact of supplier diversity.

One of the biggest barriers to supplier diversity for all Canadian businesses is a lack of awareness and understanding. Yet diversifying your suppliers can drive economic growth, promote innovation, foster inclusivity, and provide a competitive edge in the market.

Join us on Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023, from 1 to 2 p.m. ET as we discuss:

  • The strategic benefits for all Canadian companies of establishing a supplier diversity program and how it aligns with your company’s growth objectives
  • How Canadian businesses owned by equity seeking groups can become a certified diverse supplier and how competing in supplier diversity programs can help you reach your international business goals
  • How one company benefited from being certified and leveraged supplier diversity programs to grow

More information on the speakers and the webinar registration link can be found here: https://go.edc.ca/b77upi

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