October 8, 2021
Issue. 05
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 INDIAN TACO FUNDRAISER & RIBBON SKIRT MAKING NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH & RECONCILIATION BEYOND THE ORANGE SHIRT STORY BOOK LAUNCH
We offer affordable advertising rates. The paper's circulation is electronic and covers the Secwepemc Nation area.
SEPTEMBER L.I.F.E. GRANT WINNER
Benefits of advertising within the Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter: Networking/connections More awareness and business connections within our Nation Access and/or share various opportunities, resources & programs Strategic alliance for access to other Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses Opportunity to support and encourage Indigenous entrepreneurship Important information sharing regarding Indigenous owned businesses
SECWEPEMC FILMS & MEDIA
For more information and if you are interested in placing an Ad Space please contact Lisa Orton by email at communications.secwepemc@gmail.com for more details and pricing
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 250-6791156/INFO.SECWEPEMC@GMAIL.COM
October 8, 2021
Issue. 05
Pg. 04
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.
October 8, 2021
Pg. 05
Issue. 05
INDIAN TACO FUNDRAISER September 21, 2021 The L.I.F.E. foundation held an Indian taco fundraiser and loonie auction at the Be Inspired! Professional Centre to raise funds for grants for female entrepreneurs and their businesses. We had Indian tacos, a loonie auction, and many door prizes! The fundraiser was sold out and a success! Kukstselp for your support in helping raise funds for the LIFE grant to help women entrepreneurs.
EMPOWERING INDIGENOUS WOMEN RIBBON SKIRT MAKING WORKSHOP
Be Inspired! Professional Centre hosted a Ribbon Skirt making workshop facilitated by Sandra Eustache-Shiel. Participants spent the day sewing and went home with a new ribbon skirt. Be Inspired! Professional Centre meeting room is available for booking workshops.
October 8, 2021
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Issue. 05
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
2 1 5
EVERY CHILD MATTERS
It was National Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30, also known as Orange Shirt Day. Tk̓ emlups te Secwepemc hosted a gathering to honour residential school survivors and intergenerational survivors. The ceremony started with prayer and the Secwepemc Welcome song and closed with the Secwepemc Farewell song and prayer. Throughout the event, there were speakers and presentations with drumming and singing for Le Estcwéy (the missing). Tk̓ emlups te Secwepemc Kukpi7 (Chief), Rosanne Casimir, expressed, “It's time to honour the children and the unrelenting spirits of these ancestors. It's time to drum for the Indian Residential School survivors who carried the burden of knowing where the children were buried, to drum for the healing of the families and communities, for the children who did not come home. Help us shine a light on truth, the pursuit of justice and peace and healing for all those affected by those beloved missing children”.
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.
Beyond the Orange Shirt Story Virtual Book Launch Beyond the Orange Shirt Story is a new book by Phyllis Webstad and published by Medicine Wheel Education. It is a collection of short stories from Phyllis's family and friends before, during, and after their Residential school experiences. Phyllis first told her story in 2013 which inspired Orange Shirt Day on September 30. She has two other books previously published, "Orange Shirt Story" and "Phyllis's Orange Shirt" for younger children.
"Beyond the Orange Shirt Story" has been in the making for 3 years and was virtually launched September 20, 2021. Phyllis, Secwepemc from Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek Indian Band), began the book launch with a prayer in Secwepemctsin. She was joined by her Auntie Agness Jack. They shared stories and experiences of residential school. Phyllis read an excerpt from the book conveying the excitement turned to terror on her first day of school.
Agness Jack helped write and edit the book. When she talked about her experience at the residential school, she spoke of how letters were always edited by mission staff and students were often made to rewrite them - factual things only, no experiences or feelings were allowed to be mentioned. Agness spoke of her loss of identity when she expressed, “I had to become someone else”. One of the things that got the children through school was music. They were allowed to listen to records, go to dances and play music in a band. Agness talked about her faith in prayer and being on the land to heal. She expressed gratitude that children can now go home everyday and be with their families - the people who care about them as she did not have that growing up.
The book was designed as a grade 5 and up textbook but it is a resource for everyone. The book is dedicated to Phyllis’s grandmother, Lena Jack, and shares 6 generations of her family’s story. She acknowledged her Aunt Agness, mother Rose, aunt Theresa, cousin Tracy, Teddy as well Eden from Medicine Wheel Education for helping write and edit the book.
You can purchase the book at Medicine Wheel Education's website here. 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 Nail Junkiez
Email: karina.nailjunkiez@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Karina.NailJunkiez
Phone: (778) 586-6675
Karina Emmond, Secwepemc from Adams Lake, is a young entrepreneur and nail artist. After 8 years in the beauty industry, Karina made the move to become an entrepreneur and open her own business - Nail Junkiez. Karina started out as a hairstylist but it was not for her, eventually transitioning to nails. After 3 years at her previous place of work, Karina started the planning process of starting her own nail salon. Nail Junkiez provides sculpted sets, gel fills, gel overlays, gel polish and nail art from a wide variety of brands with over 300 colours to choose from. Karina creates sculpted nails from your natural nail base, no tips, with forms that build a strong nail with staying power. It has been challenging to learn the complexities of the business process such as educating oneself on the legalities of starting and operating a business, keeping up with marketing, and putting in policies for cancellations and no-shows. However, Nail Junkiez is building momentum and running smoothly as Karina builds her clientele base and business acumen. Karina has a loyal client base she has been working with since she started doing nails. Her work speaks for itself with the beautiful designs she creates with durability. You can check out more of Karina’s work on the Nail Junkiez facebook page!
October 8, 2021
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Issue. 05
Swewll words - Seqwlut t̓ e swewll The salmon are here but not for much longer as we move into October. Pesllwélsten is the Secwepemc word for October meaning “Fall begins”. September was Pesqelqlélten meaning “Many Salmon Moon”. In honour of all the swewll (fish) travelling through our territory during the Fall time, here are some fish related words. Explore more fish related Secwepemctsin words at atahm.info - a Chief Atahm School collaborative language project and Secwepemc Language Eastern Dialect dictionary.
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Indigenous Entrepreneur Profile 2021 Up the Hill at Loakin Botanicals
Website: https://up-the-hill-at-loakin-herbalproducts.myshopify.com/
Email: upthehillatloakin@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/www.UPTHEHILLA TLOAKIN2016
Instagram: @up_the_hill_at_loakin
June Anthony-Reeves, Neskonlith, is the owner and CEO of Up the Hill at Loakin Botanicals - a company creating herbal remedies and personal wellness products sustainably harvested in Secwepemcúl̓ ecw. June is a certified herbalist and Reiki practitioner with extensive experience in the field of natural healing. Up the Hill at Loakin Botanicals blends traditional Secwepemc knowledge and contemporary herbal training to create ethically harvested herbal and medicinal products. The company name is in honour of June’s parents who were raised in an area called "Loakin" and the many fond childhood memories she has of this area. June has been learning about herbal medicines since childhood. Secwepemc traditional knowledge was passed down to her from her mother with her mother learning from her grandmother. June spent her childhood walking the land with her mother being taught about the different plants, their food or medicinal properties and how to prepare them.. June said, “During my work career in public service, I always wanted to learn more about these medicines and what made them so powerful as a medicine. I did that when I took a western herbal medicine practical and advanced training in herbalism. When I completed those trainings, I began my own business in making personal care herbal products and medicines using my Indigenous knowledge and western herbal trainings.” With her formal and cultural training, June also teaches classes about plant and medicine harvesting protocols, preparing medicines, and ethical harvesting that respects the plants and leaves enough for future generations. June loves being an entrepreneur and is passionate about developing her business so one of her biggest challenges has been to step back from work and make time for her health and nurture relationships. On the other hand, her biggest success is when she truly believed that her business could be successful and go full time. “It’s working, and I love it!”, June remarks. With the business growing there are plans to expand operations to include exporting to Australia, Germany and France. Shop local and support Indigenous businesses! Up the Hill at Loakin products are available online as well as at Be Inspired Professional Centre at 632 Shuswap Ave, Chase, BC.
October 8, 2021
Pg. 12
Issue. 05
IN THE NEWS... Swelkwek̓ welt: The ongoing cultural significance of the Sun Peaks area to the Secwépemc peoples This Sun Peaks independent news story by Jarrett Hofmann, recognizes a culturally significant traditional use area of the Secwepemc people. Skwelkwek̓ welt is the Secwepemc place name for the Sun Peaks area.
Self-taught local artisan resurrects Secwépemc weapon-making traditions
A CFJC news article highlights Secwepemc Artisan and Entrepreneur, Ed Jensen (Tk̓ emlups te Secwepemc). Ed Jensen creates tools and weapons using traditional methods and materials as well as jewelry. His business, Tk̓ emlups Traditions, recently opened a studio located at 1090 Kamloopa Way, Kamloops, BC.
CONTENT AND AD SPACE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE IS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 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.
October 8, 2021
Pg. 13
Issue. 05
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.
Sharing Melahma - Short Doc Film (2019) This is a short documentary film from Crystal Dawn Morris called Sharing Mela’hma (Sharing Medicine) in which Crystal teaches her daughter, Victoria, how to gather and create traditional medicine, passing on important traditional knowledge to the next generation. Crystal is a Secwepemc entrepreneur creating Secwepemc medicines. Her company, also called Sharing Mela’hma, features herbal teas, bath salts and bombs, medicinal creams, sprays and roll ons. You can also find artisanal creations such as beading, drums and carvings on the website here.
Reclaiming My Culture - Short Doc Film (2017) Reclaiming my Culture is about a Secwepemc woman’s efforts to reclaim her culture and form stronger bonds with her family. Filmmaker Lisa Kenoras (Splatsin) speaks of identity and seeking connection to Secwepemc culture, language and stories. Lisa is an MMIWG advocate who co-founded a collective, Matriarch Resistance, for Indigenous women and femmes to gather through sisterhood, self-empowerment, self-awareness, and physical movement.
Come Home Music Video Over the summer, Adams Lake (Cstélen) youth wrote and created a song with N’we Jinan Mobile Studio called “Come Home”. This beautiful video with Cstélen youth, community members, and Elders was recently released. 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.
October 8, 2021
Pg. 14
Issue. 05
BC Native Women's Association Update BCNWA Board of Directors (BOD) met in Sun Peaks October 1 to 3 for a weekend of strategic planning for their 1-year term which started June 2021. The new BOD consists of 3 new board members, Julie John, Secretary (Secwepemc), Jo-Anne Gottfriedson, President (Secwepemc), and our newly appointed youth rep Cara Basil (Secwepemc). The two remaining BOD are Kristy Joe, Vice President (Nlaka'pamux), and Lynn Duck Chief, Treasurer (Secwepemc). BCNWA worked wtih Strategies North to facilitate a strategic planning workshop. One of their main goals is to get more funding to increase administrative staff/team, and to reach more Indigenous women all areas of B.C. to hear what their needs are to assist with the direction of BCNWA.
Pat Gauthier Fine Art Explore more of Secwepemc artist, Pat Gauthier's works of art at her website: https://www.patgauthierfineart.com
New promotional rates for affordable advertising
Advertise with us! For more info contact communications.secwepemc@gmail.com
October 8, 2021
Pg. 15
Issue. 05
CURRENT EVENTS, PROGRAMS & RESOURCES FOR ENTREPRENEURS NEXT36 - ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM
Next 36 selects 36 undergrads and recent grads from coast-to-coast who want to take their business or business idea to the next level. Next 36 focuses on the growth of you, the founder, teaching you the core skills and strategies necessary for building a business. From how to compete with established competitors to how to read a term sheet and beyond. Learn from successful entrepreneurs, business leaders and faculty. Gain access to world class curriculum, an alumni community, mentorship, virtual support, and in-kind products and services. This program will take you to ideation to launch and beyond, all within 8 months. Apply for the 2022 cohort - deadline October 14, 2021.
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.
2021 Pan Canadian Voice for Women’s Housing Symposium
The Pan-Canadian Voice for Women’s Housing is an annual symposium that brings together women from across Canada to have discussions focused on policy solutions with an intersectional and inclusive lens to make housing for women and children a priority. Starting October 18th via zoom. Save the date and register.
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.
Indigenous Resurgence Project
The Indigenous Resurgence Project provides platforms and resources to Indigenous artists, crafters, and businesses in the Interior of BC on a volunteer basis. The project runs annual art shows, exhibitions, and special events to benefit Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs and help them build their experience and create connections. The website also features a directory of Indigenous Artisans.
Vancity Unity Women Entrepreneur Program
Vancity and Women’s Enterprise Centre’s collaborative initiative - Unity Women Entrepreneurs Program - offer loans to self-identified woman or non-binary individual. Applications are currently open. 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.
October 8, 2021
Issue. 05
Pg. 16
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
NEW GIFTS FOR PURCHASE AT BE INSPIRED! 632 Shuswap Ave, Chase, BC
Totes | Blankets Reusable Bags Puzzles | Masks Stationary
October 8, 2021
Issue. 05
Pg. 18
CONTENT AND AD SPACE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR NOVEMBER 2021 ISSUE IS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021
$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. Applications are open for the next L.I.F.E grant. Applicants can apply online with a simple application process and fee.
Sunshine Tomma Sgwesgwest & Tribe
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 INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEURSHIP: A BIT OF HISTORY Secwepemc peoples have an extensive history of entrepreneurship in the Shuswap. This is evident in our oral history and knowledge of our people. An example was the thriving salmon trade; our people were savvy business owners when it came to bartering our natural resources. Resources were traded for other items to primarily support family and community survival. Indigenomics, as noted in Carol Anne Hilton’s book, lays out the beliefs and values of the emerging Indigenous economy, stating ‘it is an economy built around relationships, multigenerational stewardship of resources, and care for all.’ There are many stories of Indigenous entrepreneurship within the Secwepemc Lakes region, if you ask our elders they can share some of the history! Our people were highly skilled and resourceful in many areas and hired for their skills such as logging, hunting, guides, trackers, basket making, etc. Colonization affected this way of life, as noted by Dr. Janice Billy who shared that “our Secwepemc People were excellent farmers and it became outlawed to purchase from our People.” To honor and recognize these traditional cultural values, this handbook was created to support the existing and emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs. The list of services is the beginning of identifying resources in BC to support Indigenous entrepreneurs in all aspects of business, from thought/idea stage to growth.
Julie John, Indigenous Entrepreneur Coordinator Secwepemc Lakes Training and Employment Initiative/Secwepemc Entrepreneur Hub 632 Shuswap Avenue, Chase, BC | 250-679-1156
In the spirit of Knucwetwecw we honor the value of helping one another. Remember it is best to be informed and know every aspect of your business. If you don’t know, reach out and ask for help! There are many entrepreneurs who would love to share their experience with you. Some support services are now available at the Indigenous Entrepreneur Hub located at 632 Shuswap Ave., Chase, BC and can be contacted at 250-679-1156. Knowledge and culture are key and add to our strength as Indigenous entrepreneurs!
Doing Business on Reserve?
Have Employees?
Collecting Taxes?
Learn more about doing business on reserve by contacting the local band office. Seek advice from Indigenous Financial Institutions or a local Accountant who is knowledgeable with on/off reserve business/taxes.
Learn about B.C.’s workplace safety standards by contacting WorkSafeBC’s small business liaison at 1-855-214-5438 or www.WorkBC.ca/employers
Learn more about tax collection and remittance by contacting the BC Ministry of Finance at 1-877-388-4440 and Canada Revenue Agency at 1-800-959-5525 or www.cra-arc.gc.ca/aboriginalpeoples/
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