Agenda
Ignite Indigenous Prosperity
Agenda
Check the Forum agenda for all events
NACCA indigenous prosperity forum
2025 AGENDA
Keep up to date with the latest schedule
Select a date
TUESDAY MAY 6TH
Indigenous Prosperity Forum Annual 'Meet & Greet' Reception
6:30pm - 9:00pm
All are Welcome!
Welcome to the 2025 Indigenous Prosperity Forum!
Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned member, the meet and greet is the perfect platform to network, connect and build meaningful relationships.
Featuring Dave Mowat Blues Trio
WEDNESDAY MAY 7TH
Registration, Breakfast & Networking
7:30am - 8:45am
Opening Ceremonies
8:45am - 9:30am
Host
Stan Wesley
Kahnekahnekahtahk
Spiritwolf Singers
Opening Prayer
Elder Claudette Commanda
Welcome Address
Elaine Chambers
Chair, NACCA
Trade/Export: Navigating New Paths - Building Resilient Indigenous Businesses Through Trade & Export Supply Chains
9:30am - 10:30am
With recent shifts in the political landscape, Canadian businesses have been forced to consider alternative markets, suppliers and logistics. Indigenous businesses are uniquely positioned to capitalize on these opportunities thanks to development work on procurement and economic development initiatives (Australia and New Zealand) and advances made via the Indigenous Peoples Economic & Trade Cooperation Agreement (IPETCA).
This panel will explore the shifts that Indigenous businesses have made in response to economic tariffs, the proximity of Indigenous businesses to the export supply chain, the importance of Indigenous authenticity, and domestic trade strategies to strengthen the efficiency and security of the inter-provincial Canadian supply chain.
Moderator:
Donna St. Louis
EDC
Panelists:
Senator Paul Prosper
Senate of Canada
Richard Jefferies
KCMS Consultancy, New Zealand
Kate Russell
Supply Nation, Australia
Health Break & Visit Vendors
10:30am - 11:00am
Major Projects: Lessons Learned in Community Building Through Major Projects
11:00am - 12:00pm
Major projects have long been viewed as the key economic drivers that lead to positive and sustainable change and growth in Indigenous communities. Many Nations are now lead investors and owners of major initiatives and operations from coast to coast to coast. These projects create sustained wealth, career and capacity building opportunities, local jobs with competitive pay and benefits, and procurement and supply opportunities for small and medium sized businesses.
Organizations such as the First Nations Major Projects Coalition provide tools, capacity supports, and advice related to corporate structures and benefit sharing models. The shared learnings of these 150+ members are helping lead the development of Nations looking to regain their economic independence through major infrastructure, real estate and energy projects.
This panel will explore some of the best examples of Indigenous success in major projects and the key elements needed to advance these big, impactful ventures in a way that leads to timely and sustainable benefits for Indigenous communities.
Moderator:
Andrew Leach
Andrew Leach Consulting
Panelists:
FNMPC
Derrick Neeposh
President, CREECO
Lunch & Visit Vendors
12:00pm - 12:45pm
Fireside Chat
12:45pm - 1:00pm
From Roots to Revenue – Scaling Indigenous Tourism
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Explore the opportunities and challenges shaping Indigenous tourism in Canada. This panel delves into the crucial role of Indigenous Tourism Organizations in developing authentic, meaningful experiences that honor Indigenous rights, foster cultural understanding, and drive economic growth.
Learn from real-world success stories, including impactful SITES-supported projects that are making a difference in communities across the country.
Moderator:
Kevin Eshkawkogan
President & CEO, ITO
Panelists:
Marie-Pierre Laine
Development and Partnerships Coordinator, ITQ
Henry Tso
CFO, ITBC
Marc Ruest
General Manager, Hotel-Musee Premieres Nations, Wendake, QC
JP Obbagy
CEO, Homalco Wildlife Tours, Campbell River, BC
Health Break & Visit Vendors
2:00pm - 2:30pm
The Future of Indigenous Procurement
2:30pm - 3:30pm
This procurement panel will provide an overview of the changing landscape and advances in Indigenous procurement and share best practices when procuring goods and services from Indigenous business. Indigenous procurement leaders will share strategies to ensure purchasers of Indigenous goods and services are conducting themselves in an ethical manner that contributes to the shared goal of igniting Indigenous prosperity.
Moderator:
John Johnstone
CANDO
Panelists:
Michael Mills
ADM, PSPC
Sam Damm
President, Foxwise Industries
Mark Dokis
Founding Director, First Nations Procurement Authority
Vendor “Happy Hour”
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Shop around the vendor space and support Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs.
Indigenous Prosperity Pre-Gala Reception
6:00pm - 6:30pm
Indigenous Prosperity Gala
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Dinner, Indigenous entertainment and featuring the IFI Awards!
Show up early as the program starts at 6:30pm sharp!
6:30 pm – Soup & Salad
7:30 pm – Keynote Speaker
7:45 pm – Main Dinner
8:25 pm – Dessert
8:45 pm – Performances & Awards
THURSDAY MAY 8TH
Registration, Breakfast & Visit Vendors
7:30am - 9:00am
Indigenous Growth Fund – Performance Overview and Fireside Chat: Indigenous-Led Business Transformation on Vancouver Island
9:05am - 10:05am
The Indigenous Growth Fund (IGF) is an open-ended investment fund structured as a limited partnership. With $153 million committed by accredited investors, IGF expands lending opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and small to medium sized businesses across Canada by investing in the portfolios of Indigenous Financial Institutions.
An opening keynote will provide an exclusive look at IGF’s 2024 performance and how its investments are driving Indigenous business growth, strengthening regional economies, and fostering long term economic transformation.
Then, a fireside chat will highlight the economic shift on Vancouver Island, led by Indigenous innovation, fueled by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC), and strengthened by forward thinking investors like Block Inc. through IGF.
This discussion will explore how Indigenous businesses are reshaping industries, redefining partnerships, and driving sustainable, community led prosperity with IGF as a key catalyst.
Moderator:
Sarah MacNeil
Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships & Investor Relations, Indigenous Growth Fund
Panelists:
Frank Richter
Managing Director, IGF
Jeraldine Marshall
Director of Finance, Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation
Leslie Jackson
Head of Corporate Communications & Public Policy, Canada, Block
Health Break & Visit Vendors
10:05am - 10:35am
Indigenous Youth Panel - Fueling Prosperity: Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship
10:35am - 11:35pm
The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program is launching new opportunities to help support the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs. With the introduction of NACCA’s new Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program and the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation’s youth initiatives, Indigenous youth entrepreneurs now have more pathways to learn, grow, and succeed. This panel will feature youth business owners and youth council members who will share their entrepreneurial journeys.
Youth entrepreneurs will reflect on their personal experiences starting businesses, the role of cultural identity in their ventures, and the skills and knowledge they’ve gained through various programs and initiatives. Panelists will also discuss the support systems available to them, and how new programs like NACCA’s Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program and the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation are helping shape a brighter future for Indigenous youth entrepreneurs across the country. Join us for an empowering conversation as youth share their stories and explore how emerging programs and partnerships can foster the success of Indigenous youth entrepreneurs in Canada.
Panelists:
Magnolia Perron
Director of Strategy and Partnerships, NACCA
Michelle Okere
Executive Director, Indigenous Prosperity Foundation
Anthony Wingham
NACCA Youth Council Member.
Co-Founder, Nuez Acres & Founder, Métis Print
Lunch & Visit Vendors
12:00pm - 12:45pm
Indigenous Prosperity Foundation
12:45pm - 1:00pm
Michelle Okere
CEO, IPF
Bobbie Racette
Board Chair, IPF
Ken Coates – Research Updates: No Canadian Prosperity Without Indigenous Prosperity
1:00pm - 1:30pm
The rise, expansion and intensity of Indigenous economic activity is the most consequential and effective poverty reduction program in Canada. Indigenous business is not just business in the hands of Indigenous peoples; it is, instead, a broad, diverse and complex social enterprise designed to help First Nations, Metis and Inuit people overcome generations of oppression, racism and marginalization.
Indigenous peoples approach this work with entrepreneurial enthusiasm, business acumen, and commercial innovation, but it is driven, equally, by commitment to the land, the water and the people, a zeal for cultural renewal, and full recognition of the formidable barriers, visible and invisible, standing between Indigenous businesspeople and commercial success.
Participants will hear new research findings on Indigenous businesses in Canada and how Indigenous people are buying Canada back, one business at a time.
Entertainment – Michael Audette (Manitoba Metis) - National Fiddle Champion
1:30pm - 2:00pm
Don’t Miss This!
Closing Ceremonies & Prizes
2:00pm - 2:15pm
Closing Words
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Prayer
Elder Claudette Commanda
NACCA 2025 Forum
SPONSORS
Ignite Indigenous Prosperity
AGENDA
Check the Forum agenda for all events
INDIGENOUS PROSPERITY FORUM
2025 AGENDA
Keep up to date with the latest schedule
Select a date
TUESDAY MAY 6TH
Indigenous Prosperity Forum Annual 'Meet & Greet' Reception
6:30pm - 9:00pm
All are Welcome!
Welcome to the 2025 Indigenous Prosperity Forum!
Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned member, the meet and greet is the perfect platform to network, connect and build meaningful relationships.
Featuring Dave Mowat Blues Trio
WEDNESDAY MAY 7TH
Registration, Breakfast & Networking
7:30am - 8:45am
Opening Ceremonies
8:45am - 9:30am
Host
Stan Wesley
Kahnekahnekahtahk
Spiritwolf Singers
Opening Prayer
Elder Claudette Commanda
Welcome Address
Elaine Chambers
Chair, NACCA
Trade/Export: Navigating New Paths - Building Resilient Indigenous Businesses Through Trade & Export Supply Chains
9:30am - 10:30am
With recent shifts in the political landscape, Canadian businesses have been forced to consider alternative markets, suppliers and logistics. Indigenous businesses are uniquely positioned to capitalize on these opportunities thanks to development work on procurement and economic development initiatives (Australia and New Zealand) and advances made via the Indigenous Peoples Economic & Trade Cooperation Agreement (IPETCA).
This panel will explore the shifts that Indigenous businesses have made in response to economic tariffs, the proximity of Indigenous businesses to the export supply chain, the importance of Indigenous authenticity, and domestic trade strategies to strengthen the efficiency and security of the inter-provincial Canadian supply chain.
Moderator:
Donna St. Louis
EDC
Panelists:
Senator Paul Prosper
Senate of Canada
Richard Jefferies
KCMS Consultancy, New Zealand
Kate Russell
Supply Nation, Australia
Health Break & Visit Vendors
10:30am - 11:00am
Major Projects: Lessons Learned in Community Building Through Major Projects
11:00am - 12:00pm
Major projects have long been viewed as the key economic drivers that lead to positive and sustainable change and growth in Indigenous communities. Many Nations are now lead investors and owners of major initiatives and operations from coast to coast to coast. These projects create sustained wealth, career and capacity building opportunities, local jobs with competitive pay and benefits, and procurement and supply opportunities for small and medium sized businesses.
Organizations such as the First Nations Major Projects Coalition provide tools, capacity supports, and advice related to corporate structures and benefit sharing models. The shared learnings of these 150+ members are helping lead the development of Nations looking to regain their economic independence through major infrastructure, real estate and energy projects.
This panel will explore some of the best examples of Indigenous success in major projects and the key elements needed to advance these big, impactful ventures in a way that leads to timely and sustainable benefits for Indigenous communities.
Moderator:
Andrew Leach
Andrew Leach Consulting
Panelists:
FNMPC
Derrick Neeposh
President, CREECO
Lunch & Visit Vendors
12:00pm - 12:45pm
Fireside Chat
12:45pm - 1:00pm
From Roots to Revenue – Scaling Indigenous Tourism
1:00pm - 2:00pm
Explore the opportunities and challenges shaping Indigenous tourism in Canada. This panel delves into the crucial role of Indigenous Tourism Organizations in developing authentic, meaningful experiences that honor Indigenous rights, foster cultural understanding, and drive economic growth.
Learn from real-world success stories, including impactful SITES-supported projects that are making a difference in communities across the country.
Moderator:
Kevin Eshkawkogan
President & CEO, ITO
Panelists:
Marie-Pierre Laine
Development and Partnerships Coordinator, ITQ
Henry Tso
CFO, ITBC
Marc Ruest
General Manager, Hotel-Musee Premieres Nations, Wendake, QC
JP Obbagy
CEO, Homalco Wildlife Tours, Campbell River, BC
Health Break & Visit Vendors
2:00pm - 2:30pm
The Future of Indigenous Procurement
2:30pm - 3:30pm
This procurement panel will provide an overview of the changing landscape and advances in Indigenous procurement and share best practices when procuring goods and services from Indigenous business. Indigenous procurement leaders will share strategies to ensure purchasers of Indigenous goods and services are conducting themselves in an ethical manner that contributes to the shared goal of igniting Indigenous prosperity.
Moderator:
John Johnstone
CANDO
Panelists:
Michael Mills
ADM, PSPC
Sam Damm
President, Foxwise Industries
Mark Dokis
Founding Director, First Nations Procurement Authority
Vendor “Happy Hour”
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Shop around the vendor space and support Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs.
Indigenous Prosperity Pre-Gala Reception
6:00pm - 6:30pm
Indigenous Prosperity Gala
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Dinner, Indigenous entertainment and featuring the IFI Awards!
Show up early as the program starts at 6:30pm sharp!
6:30 pm – Soup & Salad
7:30 pm – Keynote Speaker
7:45 pm – Main Dinner
8:25 pm – Dessert
8:45 pm – Performances & Awards
THURSDAY MAY 8TH
Registration, Breakfast & Visit Vendors
7:30am - 9:00am
Indigenous Growth Fund – Performance Overview and Fireside Chat: Indigenous-Led Business Transformation on Vancouver Island
9:05am - 10:05am
The Indigenous Growth Fund (IGF) is an open-ended investment fund structured as a limited partnership. With $153 million committed by accredited investors, IGF expands lending opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and small to medium sized businesses across Canada by investing in the portfolios of Indigenous Financial Institutions.
An opening keynote will provide an exclusive look at IGF’s 2024 performance and how its investments are driving Indigenous business growth, strengthening regional economies, and fostering long term economic transformation.
Then, a fireside chat will highlight the economic shift on Vancouver Island, led by Indigenous innovation, fueled by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC), and strengthened by forward thinking investors like Block Inc. through IGF.
This discussion will explore how Indigenous businesses are reshaping industries, redefining partnerships, and driving sustainable, community led prosperity with IGF as a key catalyst.
Moderator:
Sarah MacNeil
Senior Manager, Strategic Partnerships & Investor Relations, Indigenous Growth Fund
Panelists:
Frank Richter
Managing Director, IGF
Jeraldine Marshall
Director of Finance, Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation
Leslie Jackson
Head of Corporate Communications & Public Policy, Canada, Block
Health Break & Visit Vendors
10:05am - 10:35am
Indigenous Youth Panel - Fueling Prosperity: Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship
10:35am - 11:35pm
The Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program is launching new opportunities to help support the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs. With the introduction of NACCA’s new Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program and the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation’s youth initiatives, Indigenous youth entrepreneurs now have more pathways to learn, grow, and succeed. This panel will feature youth business owners and youth council members who will share their entrepreneurial journeys.
Youth entrepreneurs will reflect on their personal experiences starting businesses, the role of cultural identity in their ventures, and the skills and knowledge they’ve gained through various programs and initiatives. Panelists will also discuss the support systems available to them, and how new programs like NACCA’s Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program and the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation are helping shape a brighter future for Indigenous youth entrepreneurs across the country. Join us for an empowering conversation as youth share their stories and explore how emerging programs and partnerships can foster the success of Indigenous youth entrepreneurs in Canada.
Panelists:
Magnolia Perron
Director of Strategy and Partnerships, NACCA
Michelle Okere
Executive Director, Indigenous Prosperity Foundation
Anthony Wingham
NACCA Youth Council Member.
Co-Founder, Nuez Acres & Founder, Métis Print
Lunch & Visit Vendors
12:00pm - 12:45pm
Indigenous Prosperity Foundation
12:45pm - 1:00pm
Michelle Okere
CEO, IPF
Bobbie Racette
Board Chair, IPF
Ken Coates – Research Updates: No Canadian Prosperity Without Indigenous Prosperity
1:00pm - 1:30pm
The rise, expansion and intensity of Indigenous economic activity is the most consequential and effective poverty reduction program in Canada. Indigenous business is not just business in the hands of Indigenous peoples; it is, instead, a broad, diverse and complex social enterprise designed to help First Nations, Metis and Inuit people overcome generations of oppression, racism and marginalization.
Indigenous peoples approach this work with entrepreneurial enthusiasm, business acumen, and commercial innovation, but it is driven, equally, by commitment to the land, the water and the people, a zeal for cultural renewal, and full recognition of the formidable barriers, visible and invisible, standing between Indigenous businesspeople and commercial success.
Participants will hear new research findings on Indigenous businesses in Canada and how Indigenous people are buying Canada back, one business at a time.
Entertainment – Michael Audette (Manitoba Metis) - National Fiddle Champion
1:30pm - 2:00pm
Don’t Miss This!
Closing Ceremonies & Prizes
2:00pm - 2:15pm
Closing Words
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Prayer
Elder Claudette Commanda
NACCA 2025 Forum
SPONSORS
