November 5, 2021
Issue. 06
SECWEPEMC NEWSLETTER The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Online Newsletter is a free online newsletter published for Secwepemcúl̓ ucw (Shuswap Nation); connecting, celebrating and bringing more awareness to opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs within our Nation. The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter invites stories, comments, photos and any other information relevant to business, entrepreneurship and economic development that would be of interest to our readers. We reserve the right to refuse advertising that does not reflect the concept of the newsletter. Due care and accuracy will be taken in regards to checking advertising copy, but no warranty is implied by the publisher. Our goals for this online newsletter are: To share advice/stories/articles from Indigenous Entrepreneurs/Executives with business skills & expertise Share entrepreneur/business education and training programs/opportunities Promote and inspire entrepreneur business opportunities Assist in development of Nation/Community entrepreneur support/awareness & to create connections and resource sharing in our communities Promote entrepreneur/business events throughout the Nation Share and promote a wide range of entrepreneur/business resources
IN THIS ISSUE MY SKWI7ÉY̓ E: HOW A YOUNG GIRL FINDS HER ONE TRUE DOLL AND SELF INDIGENOUS RESURGENCE PROJECT L.I.F.E. FOUNDATION FUNDRAISERS INDIGENOUS BUSINESS LISTINGS
Secwepemc LIFE Vision & Mission Vision
To create a safe space that promotes Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses to be abundant and successful by inspiring and uplifting one another.
Mission
Sharing stories, resources, and opportunities by providing free online content that supports our nation to normalize Indigenous wealth
L.I.F.E. CHRISTMAS MARKET
LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION
DONATION FORM
First Name: _____________________ Last Name: _______________________ Phone Number: ___________________ Email: ___________________________ City: ____________________ Postal Code: ___________________ Business Name (if applicable): ____________________________________________ Business Address (if applicable): __________________________________________ Business Website (if applicable): __________________________________________ Donation Amount: _________________
Cheques payable to: Leading Indigenous Female Entrepreneur Foundation C-3 – 1515 Little Shuswap Lake Road, Chase BC, V0E 1M0 E-Transfer can be sent to: info.secwepemc@gmail.com Please submit your business logo (JPEG or PNG format) to: Katelynn Kenoras, Project & Office Coordinator info.secwepemc@gmail.com So we can Acknowledge and Thank You on our social media and website page.
Your donation will go towards our micro-grants to support Indigenous Female Entrepreneurs!
KUKSTSEMC (THANK YOU)
NOTE: This form can be found on our website under the Donate Now section. https://www.leadingindigenousfemaleentrepreneurs.ca/ Physical Address: 632 Shuswap Avenue, Chase, BC V0E 1M0 Mailing Address: C3-1515 Little Shuswap Lake Road, Chase BC V0E 1M0 Office: 250-679-1156 Cell: 250-879-1087
L.I.F.E. Product
Indigenous Business Owner shirts!
SIZES SM-3XL - $30.00 EACH ALL PROCEEDS GO TO LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION TO SUPPORT ENTREPRENEURS CAN BE PURCHASED IN PERSON AT BE INSPIRED PROFESSIONAL CENTRE 632 SHUSWAP AVE, CHASE BC OR CONTACT KATELYNN AT 250-679-1156 / INFO.SECWEPEMC@GMAIL.COM
November 5, 2021
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MEETING ROOM RENTAL $25/hour Located at 632 Shuswap Ave, Chase BC
Contact Katelynn for more information at info.secwepemc@gmail.com or call 250-679-1156
PROFESSIONAL CLOTHING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
My Sister's Closet
INTENDED TO HELP WOMEN WHO NEED PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS ATTIRE FOR SITUATIONS SUCH AS INTERVIEWS, EMPLOYMENT, OR OFFICE-APPROPRIATE CLOTHING.
LOCATION: 632 Shuswap Ave, Chase, BC Open 9am-4pm Monday-Thursday to browse clothing
DONATIONS: We are accepting seasonal professional clothing and accessories. Contact Katelynn at info.secwepemc@gmail.com or 250.679.1156 to arrange drop-off.
Free Clothing Program
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
November 5, 2021
Issue. 06
Pg. 06
Kukstep-kuc to our Indigenous Veterans 4,000 Indigenous soldiers fought for their country in World War I. In World War II, over 3,000 Indigenous soldiers fought for Canada. We honour and respect your sacrifices for our freedom.
Artist: Pat Gauthier
Join Secwépemc Strong on November 8th, 2021 to honour our Secwépemc veterans on National Aboriginal Veterans Day.
The event will be live streamed from 2:303:00PM and will be available to view afterwards on the Facebook page.
November 5, 2021
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Issue. 06
MY SKWI7ÉY̓ E: HOW A YOUNG GIRL FINDS HER ONE TRUE DOLL AND SELF Sandra Eustache-Shiel is a Secwepemc woman from the Simpcw First Nation. Sandra recently wrote and self-published a memoir “My Skwi7éy̓ e: How a young girl finds her one true doll and self”. Skwi7éy̓ e is the Secwepemc word for doll. “My Skwi7éy̓ e” touches on Sandra’s residential school experience, good memories of her childhood on the land in Simpcwúlecw, the love and strength she received from her Kye7e (grandmother), and the Secwepemc woman she has come to be. Sandra’s skwi7éy̓ e represents a strong Secwepemc woman much like her grandmother, Christine Eustache, who instilled Secwepemc teachings within her grandchild - love, language and important cultural skills such as basket-making. The doll brought to light everything she was gifted as a child, the Secwepemc teachings and pride as a Secwepemc woman! Her kye7e doll was gifted to her by a friend “Christine”, from Alberta. There were 100 of these dolls made. Ninety-nine were made for families of “Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.” These dolls wore red dresses. One that was gifted to her was a grandma doll with two braids, a long skirt, a Pendleton-like cape, Moccasin'd feet and a kokum scarf wrapped around her head. Sandra expressed that this doll “just connected my relationship with my kye7e”. She felt the doll symbolized her Kye7e, a blessing for her hurting inner-child that needed to heal from childhood trauma. The doll was like her grandmother who always wore long skirts and a headscarf. The two braids on the doll were ever more sentimental as it reminded her of the moment, she lovingly braided her grandma’s hair two weeks before she passed away. Her Skwi7éy̓ e gave her strength and made it easier to tell her story. As a residential school survivor, Sandra was inspired to write the book after 215 of our children were found on Kamloops Indian Residential School grounds. Teachers in her district asked her to share her story with students for October 30th, “Every Child Matters” day. She is the Cultural & Language educator and they desired firsthand experience to share with the children. The book is a way of raising our spirits to a more positive and healthy future, to tell a story of perseverance and hope for our children. Connecting a journey that honors our ancestor's wealth of cultural teachings in hopes for the children and people to come (tellqelmucw). It is dedicated to her loved ones, ancestors and most importantly the 215 children found at K.I.R.S. Sandra hopes that all of our children have someone they love and trust and can turn to that will give them the love, nourishment and voice they deserve growing up, someone special like her Kye7e Christine Eustache-Fortier! Contact Sandra at auntietsi7@hotmail.com to order a copy of her book. Bulk orders are available.
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
November 5, 2021
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Issue. 06
INDIGENOUS RESURGENCE PROJECT The Indigenous Resurgence Project (IRP) is a Kamloops-based initiative supporting and showcasing local and regional Indigenous artists, businesses and entrepreneurs in the arts and culture sector. On October 9 2021, IRP held a networking luncheon in Kamloops for Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs. The event was held to support artists, socialize and gather feedback. Participants were invited to be interviewed on film to talk about what they do and their experiences as Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs. The interviews will be edited for these artists to use for promotional purposes in the artist/entrepreneur’s business and art. The feedback in these videos will be used to generate programming to support emerging Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs. It was a gathering where everyone there was genuinely interested in supporting emerging artists and the IRP will continue to foster this type of positive feeling. Shay Paul (Tk’emlups te Secwepemc) organized the event as the creator of the Indigenous Resurgence Project. The Indigenous Resurgence Project started as a grassroots youth collective to encourage, support and connect Indigenous artists. Shay is the founder and the acting project director alongside newly recruited project manager, Joey Roo. The arts and culture initiative has hosted two public vendor exhibitions and a fashion show in partnership with Fashion Speaks International. The project has transformed into an initiative to provide resources, mentorship and experiential activities that showcase Indigenous artists, crafters, service providers, businesses and entrepreneurs. It was inspired by Shay’s own struggles as a contemporary artist and graphic designer with Ambush Art. As a young artist, it was difficult to find support and connection, not knowing where to go or ask for help building her art business. With that, Shay took the initiative to fill the gap and the Indigenous Resurgence project was created to be a safe place that provides answers, especially for those starting out. Shay envisions an accessible and inclusive space and what drives her is “thinking about the next generation of artists who might not know where to look for support”. Shay believes change has to come from somewhere motivating her desire and passion to support fellow artists and entrepreneurs where they can support each other on their creative journeys. Her long-term vision is to see the project expand to an incorporated not-for-profit organization that supports artists in the region that delivers recurring programming such as educational and experiential workshops and entrepreneurial and mentorship supports (financial planning, taxes, grant writing etc.). Head over to The Indigenous Resurgence Project website to have your business listed in a free directory to promote your art and/or services. https://www.indigenousresurgenceproject.ca/indi genous-directory
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
Indigenous Entrepreneur Profile 2021 Fireweed Wellness Products
Rena Nordquist is Gitxsan from Kispiox in Northern, BC living and working in Cstelen (Adams Lake). Rena began making medicinal wellness products to overcome her own challenges with persistent eczema she struggled with most of her life. It worked! Rena transformed this success into a business that became Fireweed Wellness Products. Fireweed Wellness products are custom-made, organic and harvested from the mountains of Secwepemcúl̓ ecw. Fireweed, cedar and devil’s club are the main medicinal plants collected locally. These products are infused with Cannabidiol (CBD), essential oils and different natural oils like hemp and almond. CBD has been shown to be effective in treating many health conditions and commonly used for pain relief, anxiety and depression. The variety of Fireweed Wellness lotions, bath salts, and butters help with pain relief, cramps, eczema, multiple sclerosis, inflammation, psoriasis, fibromyalgia, skin irritations and rashes, and rheumatoid arthritis. One of the challenges so far have been sales and marketing with CBD contents. However, the effectiveness of Rena’s hand-made wellness products outweigh the challenges having helped people heal eczema, control psoriasis, and become more mobile with MS and Fibromyalgia. Visit the Fireweed Wellness Products Facebook page or come to the Be Inspired! Professional Centre to purchase Fireweed Wellness Products.
Email: fireweed4u@pm.me
Facebook: Fireweed Wellness Products
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Issue. 06
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$1000 Grant Winner
September L.I.F.E. Grant Winner In September, the first monthly L.I.F.E. grant of $1000 was awarded to Sunshine Tomma of the Secwepemc and Stoney Nakota Nations. Sunshine’s business, Sgwesgwest & Tribe, is an eco-friendly company selling candles and bath and body products infused with traditional medicines such as pine, juniper, rose and cedar. L.I.F.E. Foundation was created to fundraise and create grants for Indigenous Female Entrepreneurs in B.C. The purpose of this grant is to support Indigenous Female Entrepreneurs who are doing their best to create change for themselves, their community and Nation.
Sunshine Tomma
Applications are open for the next L.I.F.E grant. Applicants can apply online with a simple application process and fee.
Sgwesgwest & Tribe
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Indigenous Entrepreneur Profile 2021
Fashion Speaks International
Email: fsimodels@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fsimodelsandtalent/
Kim Coltman is a Metis photographer and model living and working in Kamloops. She began modelling in 1972. She traveled the world as a model, eventually expanding into television, film and working as stills photographer in the film industry. Kim provides promotional images for fashion designers and artists, organizes fundraising events, fashion shows, photo shoots, facilitates modelling workshops and seminars. As the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) movement catapulted into the mainstream she founded Fashion Speaks International to contribute to raising awareness of the ongoing human rights crisis and the disproportionate violence against Indigenous woman and girls. Kim’s goals for Fashion Speaks International are to raise funds and awareness through fashion shows, promote Indigenous fashion designers, models and other industry professionals, and to build an international coalition of fashion industry professionals to create global awareness. Kim expressed that she strives to “increase our numbers so we can decrease the number of Indigenous women and girls going missing and being murdered”. Lack of funding is a challenge to being able to act on opportunities. However, Kim recalls one of her biggest successes being the exciting opportunity to take four Indigenous models to walk the runway In Indigenous Fashion Week Paris. Kim believes the constant networking and relationship building she does has made such an opportunity possible.
November 5, 2021
Issue. 06
Pg. 12
IN THE NEWS... Secwépemc hereditary family builds ceremony house for healing An Indiginews story by Syilx Journalist, Kelsie
Kilawna. A Secwepemc family from Neskonlith breaks ground on a new ceremony house for winter dances, ceremonies and sweat lodges for Indigenous peoples.
Trudeau called out for ‘words and broken promises’ by Secwépemc mom An Indiginews story by Syilx Journalist, Kelsie Kilawna. A Secwepemc woman addresses the Prime Minister and speaks her truth at a gathering at the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Powwow Arbour.
Splatsin to build new care facility for Elders
Splatsin will be constructing a new independent care facility, addressing the needs of the of the community as outlined in their Comprehensive Community Plan.
Photo by Kelsie Kilawna of Indiginews
First Nation in northern B.C. launches pilot project to deliver medical supplies by drone
Stellat'en First Nation collaborates with UBC to deliver medicine to their remote community using drones.
CONTENT AND AD SPACE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE IS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2021
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
November 5, 2021
Pg. 13
Issue. 06
SECWEPEMC FILMS & MEDIA Short documentaries created by Secwepemc filmmakers in collaboration with Wapikoni Mobile Studio, a non-profit organization that hosts educational workshops and film screenings based on Indigenous cultures, issues and rights.
Auntie's Hand- Short Doc Film (2017) “Auntie’s Hands" is a short documentary film from Gloria Morgan (Secwepemc from Splatsin). In Gloria’s words, “this video is about taking responsibility for bringing up ‘good’ people who know our ways. This video is about carrying on our culture over the coming generations. So that our 7th generation will know.” Gloria has created 3 short films with Wapikoni Mobile - Auntie's Hands, Coyote's Canoe and Six Plastic Hair Barrettes.
Secwepemc Language Resource Videos T'selcéwtqen Clleq'mel'ten/Chief Atahm School's website has several language learning videos for children and adults in the Eastern dialect. Learn about colours, clothes, counting as well as e-books narrated by Elders.
Our Challenges Music Video Over the summer, youth from Neskonlith wrote and created a song with N’we Jinan Mobile Studio called “Our Challenges”. Neskonlith youth and community members came together to create this video. Check it out!
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
November 5, 2021
Issue. 06
Pg. 14
CRYSTAL WRAPPING WORKSHOP AT BE INSPIRED! On October 26, we held a crystal wrapping workshop at the Be Inspired! Professional Centre facilitated by Peggy McBryan. Materials were provided and participants learned the basics of wrapping stones and crystals.
Be Inspired! Professional Centre is available for booking meetings and workshops. Contact info.secwepemc@gmail.com for more info.
L.I.F.E. Foundation Fundraiser
Kukstselp to all who supported our House Bingo & Loonie Auction fundraiser!!
November 5, 2021
Pg. 15
Issue. 06
CURRENT EVENTS, PROGRAMS & RESOURCES FOR ENTREPRENEURS Women entrepreneurs reluctant to access financial support: survey
"Barriers to funding and business growth include lack of collateral and balancing family duties, a recent national poll found As if the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t tough enough, many Canadian women entrepreneurs have been going it alone financially. That’s one of the takeaways from a national survey of female business owners by Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada (WEOC), which found that more than 50 percent of respondents didn’t seek any financial assistance (loans, grants or capital investment) during the economic upheaval that was 2020."
Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund
The Indigenous Women Entrepreneurship Fund is a micro-finance program open to Indigenous women-owned businesses who may lack access to conventional financing.
Indigenous Priorities Granting Program
"Vancouver Foundation is committing $750,000 to the Indigenous Priorities Granting Program (IPGP) to provide flexible, one-time grants to First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities, and Indigenous-led organizations operating in the lands now known as BC. Grants are available up to $50,000 and are to support Indigenous-led initiatives that encourage community inclusiveness, belonging, and healing. "
8th Annual Trusts And Investment Conference
On November 8-10th, 2021, a gathering to discuss inclusion within the Economy at the Virtual 8th Annual Trust and Investment Conference.
Financial Literacy 101
The Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) partnered with the Canadian Women’s Chamber of Commerce to present Financial Literacy 101—a four-part series created to equip business advisors, mentors, and coaches with the practical knowledge needed to answer the most common financial questions women entrepreneurs may have and navigate the unique challenges women entrepreneurs face.
Futurpreneur Canada
Futurpreneur Canada supports Indigenous entrepreneurs aged 18-39 with launching or buying their own business. They have up to $60,000 in financing, provide an expert mentor for up to two years, and access to resources. Futurpreneur Canada can help young entrepreneurs bring their business plan to life. Access stories about how young Indigenous entrepreneurs have successfully launched their own businesses, a library of entrepreneurship resources, and business plan creation resources.
Powwow Pitch Podcast: Conversations with Indigenous Entrepreneurs
Host Sunshine Quem Tenasco, a Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg entrepreneur, author and creator of Pow Wow Pitch and Herbraids, interviews some of the most successful Indigenous entrepreneurs, makers and creators to share their stories, learnings, and wisdom.
Vancity Unity Women Entrepreneur Program
Unity Women Entrepreneurs Program offer loans to self-identified woman or non-binary individual. Whether you are just starting out or trying to grow your business, you can tailor your support program to meet your unique needs with access to a resource library and opportunities for networking and advice from experienced mentors. The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
November 5, 2021
Issue. 06
Pg. 16
INDIGENOUS BUSINESS LISTINGS Moccasin Trails www.moccasintrails.com Email info@moccasintrails.com IG @moccasintrails www.facebook.com/MoccTrails/
Syilx Cannabis Society www.syilxcannabissociety.com Email syilxcannabissociety@gmail.com IG @syilxcannabisociety www.facebook.com/SyilxCSociety/
Elm & Peony Events www.elmandpeony.com Email hello@elmandpeony.com IG @elmandpeonyevents www.facebook.com/elmandpeony
Indigenous Financial Freedom Circle Email iff.circle@gmail.com IG @iff_circle www.facebook.com/iffcircle/
Pat Gauthier Fine Art www.patgauthierfineart.com Email patgauthierstudio@gmail.com IG @patgauthierstudio www.facebook.com/patgauthierart/
Maskwa Den www.pebblesnook.ca Email maskwaden@gmail.com Storefront 637 Shuswap Avenue, Chase, BC
Four Winds Driving School
www.fourwindsdrive.com Email fourwinds_drive@outlook.com www.facebook.com/fourwindsdrive
Wild Rose Healing www.wildrosehealing.ca Email wildrosehealingbc@gmail.com www.facebook.com/mobilemassagebc
Support Indigenous Businesses in Secwepemcúl̓ ecw
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
EVENTS AT BE INSPIRED! PROFESSIONAL CENTRE 632 Shuswap Ave, Chase, BC
November 5, 2021
Issue. 06
Pg. 18
CONTENT AND AD SPACE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR DECEMBER 2021 ISSUE IS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2021
GIFTS FOR PURCHASE AT BE INSPIRED! 632 Shuswap Ave, Chase, BC
Support local Indigenous businesses in your Christmas Shopping
Totes | Blankets Reusable Bags Puzzles | Masks Stationary | Decals Magnets | Lotions Smudge Sprays Herbal Products
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
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Be the next entrepreneur profiled! INTERESTED IN LISTING YOUR BUSINESS PROFILE IN OUR NEWSLETTER, SOCIAL MEDIA AND/OR WEBSITE? FILL OUT THE FORM HERE. Please send completed form to Lisa Orton at communications.secwepemc @gmail.com
Upcoming
Events
LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS FOUNDATION
LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION
L.I.F.E. STORY PITCH EVENT
03.10.22 6 P.M. - 9 P.M.
SATHVE E DATE
MORE INFO COMING SOON LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS FOUNDATION
SECOND ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GOLF TOURNAMENT
SATHVE E 06.17.22 DATE TALKING ROCK GOLF COURSE & QUAAOUT LODGE
LETS TALK MONEY CONFERENCE August 19-21, 2022
E V A S THE E T A D
MORE INFO COMING SOON
SECWEPEMC LAKES & TRAINING EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVE INDIGENOUS BUSINESS RESOURCE LIST Financing and Loans
Skills Training
Advisory Services
Mentorship Support
Aboriginal Business Advisory Centres
British Columbia Assembly of
Aboriginal Business & Community Development Centre (ABCD)
BCAFN is a Provincial Territorial Organization representing and advocating for the 203 First Nations in British Columbia. Phone:1-250-962-1603 www.bcafn.ca
Get advice on Indigenous business planning in the Kootenay, Northeast & Cariboo Regions. Phone:1-800-880-1022 www.gov.bc.ca/aboriginalbusinessadvisorycentres
A non-profit organization that is involved in supporting business, community & economic development. Located in Prince George, BC. Phone:1-250-562-6325 www.abdc.bc.ca
Aboriginal Business & Entrepreneurship Development
Provides a range of services and supports to promote the growth of a strong Indigenous business sector in Canada. Phone:1-604-666-7891 www.inacservices.com/aboriginal-business-and-entrepreneurshipdevelopment
Aboriginal Business Entrepreneurship & Skills Training Program
Skills training, advisory and mentorship services. Located in Nelson, BC. Phone:1-250-352-3878 www.aboriginalbest.com
Aboriginal Business Investment Council
Access to a variety of resources to help start and grown your business, including skills training and success stories. www.bcibic.ca
Aboriginal Financial Institutions
Information and advice on business planning, financing and other economic development opportunities throughout BC. Phone:1-844-827-0327 www.nacca.ca/aboriginal-financial-institutions
All Nations Trust Company (ANTCO)
An Aboriginal owned Trust company, located in Kamloops, BC, that provides financial and advisory services to Aboriginal entrepreneurs. Phone:1-778-471-4110; Toll Free: 1-800-663-2959 www.antco.ca
BC Aboriginal Economic Development
Programs, training & funding for Indigenous businesses. www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/indigenouspeople/economic-development
First Nations (BCAFN)
Burns Lake Native Development Corporation BLNDC empowers First Nations to realize their economic aspirations within their traditional territories. Phone:1-250-692-3188 www.blndc.ca Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Access business financing and advice through BDC's Indigenous Bank Department. www.bdc.ca/en Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business Tools and financing for Indigenous businesses. www.ccab.com/tfab/ Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers Cando is a federally registered, non-profit society that is Indigenous controlled, community based, and membership driven. Cando focuses on education and professional development for Economic Development Officers working in Indigenous communities or organizations. Phone:1-780-990-0303 www.edo.ca Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations (CFDC of CIFN) Promotes and provides community economic development support services to Indigenous people within the Central Interior of British Columbia. Phone:1-250-828-9833 www.cfdcofcifn.com First Citizens Fund Business Loan Program Access business loans for Indigenous-owened enterprises. www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/indigenouspeople/first-citizens-fund Haida Gwaii Community Futures Building foundations on the Island through business and community economic development. Phone:1-250-626-5594 www.haidagwaiifutures.ca
SECWEPEMC LAKES & TRAINING EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVE INDIGENOUS BUSINESS RESOURCE LIST Financing and Loans
Skills Training
Hello I Am An Entrepreneur
This program encompasses a series of 12 workshops & includes unlimited mentoring, guest speakers, resource materials and video library. Phone:1-250-619-3450 www.helloiamanentrepreneur.com
Indigenous Community for Leadership and Development
ICLD works with Indigenous communities to develop and deliver personalized training to facilitate learning & skill growth that supports economic development. Phone:1-604-899-2400 www.icldgroup.com
Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training
Learn about trades opportunities for Indigenous peoples. Read success stories and receive guidance from the Industry Training Authority Apprenticeship Advisors. Phone:1-866-660-6011 www.itabc.ca/indigenous-peoples-trades/overview
Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ISETS)
ISETS links training needs to labour market demands, providing training, skills upgrading and job search assistance. www.canada.ca/en/employment-socialdevelopment/programs/indigenous-skills-employmenttraining.html
Indigenous Tourism Association of BC
Resources for Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities in BC who are operating or looking to start a tourism business. Phone:1-604-921-1070 www.indigenousbc.com
Junior Achievement BC
Entrepreneurship training and support for Indigenous youth throughout the Indigenous Business Circles program. Phone:1-604-688-3887 www.jabc.ca
Metis Financial Corporation of BC (MFCBC)
Metis owned lending institution created to finance the start-up, acquisition and/or expansion of viable Metis owned and operated small businesses based in British Columbia. Phone:1-833-399-3926 www.mfcbc.ca
Metis Nation BC Economic Development Portal
Economic development information and business registry for Metis businesses and entrepreneurs. Phone:1-778-349-7216 www.ecdev.mnbc.ca
Advisory Services
Mentorship Support
Native Fishing Association
NFA was developed to support struggling fishers. Not for profit financial lending institution. Phone:1-604-913-2997 www.shoal.ca
New Relationship Trust
Access business financing and economic development information for Indigenous enterprises in BC. Phone:1-604-925-3338 www.newrelationshiptrust.ca
Nuu-Chah-Nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC)
NEDC strives to assist Aboriginal’s make their dreams come true and build a better future for business! NEDC provides financing and business support to Aboriginals on Vancouver Island Phone:1-866-444-6332 www.nedc.info
Peace Hills Trust
Provides banking services for Indigenous entrepreneurs. Phone:1-250-769-9081 www.peacehills.com/business
Sto:lo Community Futures Corporation
Offers business loans, business support, training & workshops. Also aftercare to improve community business and economic development within the Sto:lo traditional territory Phone:1-604-858-0009 www.stolocf.ca
Tribal Resources Investment Corporation (TRICORP)
Administers a revolving loan fund which is operated to be selfsupporting. The mandate is to provide financing for business activities which increase the number of permanent jobs. Phone:1-250-624-3535 www.tricorp.ca/
Tale’awtxw Aboriginal Capital Corporation
Tale’awtxw has supported the success of over a thousand Aboriginal owned businesses operating withing their service area. www.tacc.ca