The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) took center stage alongside some of Canada’s most influential business and banking leaders at the 2024 Toronto Global Forum. Prominent First Nation business leader and general manager of NACCA’s Indigenous Financial Institution network member, Waubetek Business Development Corporation, presented a compelling talk on Indigenous economic reconciliation. NACCA’s involvement demonstrates its commitment to fostering Indigenous entrepreneurship, equitable partnerships, and sustainable collaboration across corporate and government sectors, including the high-profile area of Indigenous procurement with the Government of Canada.

Dawn Madahbee-Leach’s address emphasized the ongoing need to dismantle barriers to Indigenous prosperity. She underscored how exclusion from the wealth generated by traditional territories has deeply impacted Indigenous communities and proposed solutions centered around capacity-building, equitable partnerships, and Indigenous-led economic initiatives.

“We believe that economic reconciliation is not just a goal but a necessary pathway to Canada’s shared prosperity,” said Madahbee-Leach. “Through partnerships and Indigenous-led initiatives, we can build vibrant economies that reflect the value of our contributions and support sustainable development.”

Aligned with the forum’s theme, “Scaling for a Sustainable Future,” NACCA’s CEO, Shannin Metatawabin, participated in a private roundtable discussion with guest of honour, The Honourable Lisa Raitt, and twenty additional national business leaders representing corporate Canada. This exclusive roundtable offered an opportunity to highlight the critical importance of Indigenous participation in economic development, resource management, and sustainable growth.

During forum discussions, Metatawabin emphasized NACCA’s leadership in fostering Indigenous entrepreneurship through its network of Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs). With loans provided to more than 56,000 Indigenous entrepreneurs, totalling $3.3 billion, NACCA’s approach serves as a global model for inclusive economic growth. He also outlined plans for a certified First Nations Procurement Organization, which will act as a single-window service to certify authentic First Nation businesses, ensuring that economic opportunities benefit genuine Indigenous enterprises.

NACCA aimed to underscore the importance of First Nations procurement as a key driver of economic reconciliation. “Our involvement aligns with the National Indigenous Economic Strategy (NIES), advocating for increased Indigenous ownership, participation, and opportunities at all levels of business and governance,” stated Metatawabin.

NACCA’s advocacy at the Toronto Global Forum delivered a powerful message: Canada’s future prosperity depends on meaningful Indigenous inclusion in all sectors. With initiatives like the National Indigenous Economic Strategy and efforts to enhance Indigenous participation in procurement and governance, NACCA continues to lead the way toward sustainable economic reconciliation.

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