Agenda
Soar Indigenous Prosperity
Agenda
Check the Forum agenda for all events
2026 AGENDA
Forum Agenda is subject to change.
View the agenda here to stay up to date on the latest events.
Select a date
TUESDAY MAY 5TH
IFI GM & Chairs Meeting
9:00am - 4:30pm
The IFI, GM & Chairs meeting focuses on strategic planning, policy workshops, and governance.
Prosperity Exchange Reception Featuring DJ Pøptrt
6:30pm - 9:30pm
All are Welcome!
Welcome to the 2026 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:
DJ Pøptrt
WEDNESDAY MAY 6TH
Registration, Breakfast & Networking
7:30am - 9:00am
Opening Ceremonies
9:00am - 9:15am
Host:
Christine Genier
Opening Prayer:
Elder Claudette Commanda
Welcome Address:
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Keith Matthew
Board Chair , NACCA
Sovereignty in Motion: Indigenous Economies on the World Stage
9:30am - 10:45am
From New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the Arctic, Indigenous businesses and people are facing shared barriers and new global opportunities. This fast-paced discussion will explore what Indigenous economic sovereignty and global trade looks like on the global stage. Indigenous procurement leaders will share strategies to expand the trade of Indigenous products across new and expanding trade networks with the shared goal of advancing Indigenous prosperity on a global stage.
KEYNOTE: The Honourable Nanaia Mahuta – Former Māori Cabinet Minister, Parliament of New Zealand “Resilient Futures: Indigenous Leadership in Redesigning Trade and Diplomacy.”
Moderator:
Mark Dokis
First Nations Procurement Authority
Panelists:
Kate Russell
CEO, Supply Nation Australia
Anna Jane Edwards
CEO, Amotai – New Zealand
Jody Anderson
Chair, First Nations Procurement Authority
Health Break & Visit Vendor Market
10:45am - 11:00am
TD Indigenous Banking - Platinum Sponsor
11:00am - 11:15pm
TD Indigenous Banking outlines how capital and partnership can unlock the next era of Indigenous business growth and community wealth-building.
Presenter:
Pheroz M. Austin
A.V.P. Eastern Canada, T.D. Indigenous Banking Group
From Idea to Impact: Inside NACCA’s Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program
11:15am - 12:00pm
Explore NACCA’s Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program. What it is, why it matters, and how it is driving real outcomes for Indigenous entrepreneurs across the country. Kevin Rose will highlight program successes, lessons learned, and what’s ahead.
- History of the IEP
- History of Women’s Programming
- Slido – Youth Programming Opportunity / Innovation (Digital, Social, Entrepreneurship, etc.)
Moderators:
Kevin Rose
Chief Strategy Officer, NACCA
Magnolia Perron
Director Partnerships, NACCA
Lunch & Visit Vendor Market
12:00pm - 1:00pm
TikTok – Indigenous Creators in the Digital Economy
1:00pm - 1:15pm
Presenter:
Jayson Hilchie
Government Relations Lead, TikTok
Yänonhchia’ Housing Initiative: Building Equity Where It Matters: Financing Indigenous Homeownership
1:15pm - 2:15pm
Homeownership is more than housing, it’s about equity, stability, and intergenerational wealth. This panel examines how capital, policy, and community‑driven innovation can work together to expand access to Indigenous homeownership. Panelists will share real‑world insights from successful housing finance initiatives, risk‑sharing models, and cross‑sector partnerships that are helping communities move from dependency to ownership.
Moderator:
Dominique Collin
Panelists:
Chief Lance Haymond
Co‑chair, National Chiefs Committee on Housing and Infrastructure for the Assembly of First Nation
Travis Seymour
CEO, First Nations Market Housing Fund
Martin Legare
Executive Director, Aboriginal Savings Corporation of Canada
Elaine Chambers
Board Member, NACCA
CEO, däna Näye Ventures
Breakout Session - Sponsored by Farm Credit Canada
1:00pm - 2:00pm
FCC is the leading lender in Canadian agriculture and food. We are investing in industry success through innovation, productivity and sustainability. Our customers rely on us for financing, capital, AgExpert management software, knowledge and industry connections. As a trusted partner and commercial Crown corporation that reinvests profits into ag and food, FCC is essential in building a stronger, more prosperous food industry for all Canadians.
FAC est le principal prêteur à l’agriculture et à l’agroalimentaire au Canada. Nous investissons dans la réussite de l’industrie en favorisant l’innovation, la productivité et la durabilité. Notre clientèle compte sur nous pour accéder à du financement, à des solutions de capital, aux logiciels de gestion AgExpert, ainsi qu’à notre expertise et à nos relations au sein de l’industrie. À titre de partenaire de confiance et de société d’État à vocation commerciale qui réinvestit ses bénéfices dans l’agriculture et l’agroalimentaire, FAC joue un rôle essentiel dans la vigueur et la prospérité de l’industrie, et ce, au profit de toute la population canadienne
Location:
Salon du Jardin
Health Break & Visit Vendor Market
2:15pm - 2:30pm
NACCA – ALTO Signing Ceremony
2:30pm - 2:45pm
Launchpad Live: Indigenous Entrepreneurs Take the Stage
2:45pm - 3:45pm
Watch emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs pitch bold business ideas refined through the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) Launchpad, competing for support that can propel their ventures to the next level.
Winner announced at NACCA Forum Gala
Sponsored by:
RBC Origins
Looking Ahead – What’s Next for the Network
3:45pm - 4:15pm
Presenter:
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Indigenous Prosperity Forum 'Networking Hour'
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Visit the Vendor Market and support Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs.
Yanonhchia Housing Event – Sponsored Side Room
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Host:
Yänonhchia’ Housing Finance
Indigenous Prosperity Pre-Gala Reception
6:00pm - 6:30pm
SOAR - The NACCA & IFI Network present the Gala & Indigenous Business Awards
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Sponsored by Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
Celebrating Indigenous excellence with an evening of recognition and world class Indigenous entertainment. Join us as we honour Indigenous entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders from across Turtle Island.
6:30 pm Opening Entertainment
6:35 pm Salad
7:15 pm Soup
7:30 pm Keynote Speaker
7:45 pm Main Course
8:00 pm Online Auction Closes
8:15 pm Dessert
8:45 pm Performances & Awards
Chanelle Munroe
The World’s Only Métis Woman Stage Magician with Sean Watson.
Nominated as Canada’s Magician of the Year
Launch Pad Live – IPF Pitch Award Winner Announcement
Indigenous Business Awards
THURSDAY MAY 7TH
Breakfast & Visit Vendor Market
7:30am - 9:00am
Youth Panel: Next-Gen Indigenous Entrepreneurs: Technology, Trade, and Transformation
9:05am - 9:45am
Indigenous youth are leading a new era of entrepreneurship, using innovation, technology, and international opportunities to expand the reach and impact of their businesses. This dynamic panel will feature youth entrepreneurs, program leaders, and experts who are driving solutions in technology, global trade, and business innovation.
Panelists will share how they are leveraging digital platforms, incubators, mentorship, and international networks to scale their ventures. The discussion will explore what Indigenous youth need to succeed in a rapidly changing economy, what programs and initiatives are most effective, and how collaborations across borders, sectors, and communities are shaping a prosperous future. Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights Indigenous youth as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders ready to make a global impact.
Moderator:
Amy Jackson
Director, Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah, RRC Polytech
Panelists:
Amanda Muskego
Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Business Support Officer, Alberta Indian Investment Corporation
Keenan Beavis
Longhouse Branding & Marketing
Darion Ducharme
Founder & CEO, Teqare
Amanda Anderson
Co-founder, Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co.
Scaling by Design: A Data‑Driven Fireside Chat on the Indigenous Growth Fund
9:45am - 10:30am
Capital, when deployed with precision, can shift the trajectory of entire economies. This session explores how the Indigenous Growth Fund (IGF) is doing exactly that, accelerating the growth of Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and the businesses they finance. Drawing on new portfolio data from eight IFIs, we’ll examine how additional capital has strengthened its lending capacity and fueled network‑wide growth. The discussion will also highlight what becomes possible when structural capital barriers are removed and how investors and partners can help shape what comes next.
Presenters:
Frank Richter
Managing Director, Indigenous Growth Fund
Bill Murray
Director, Indigenous Growth Fund
Health Break & Visit Vendor Market
10:30am - 10:45am
Trading New Paths: Diversity in the Market
10:45am - 11:15am
Export Development Canada explores how Indigenous businesses can diversify trade, reach new markets, and compete globally while staying rooted in community values.
Moderator:
Donna St. Louis
National Lead, Indigenous Business | Inclusive Trade (EDC)
Panelists:
Anthony Wingham
Co-Owner, Nuez Acres
Jolene Johnson
CEO, Wabinaki Maple
NACCA's 30th Anniversary – On the Path to Prosperity
11:15am - 12:00pm
Thirty years ago, it started with seeing the need. Listen to the story of the resilient journey of what it took to build NACCA and the IFI network from the ground up. The milestones that shaped impact, hearing from the pioneers of prosperity and a look at legacy, leadership, and the future we are building together.
Presenters:
Keith Matthew
NACCA Board Chair
Jean Vincent
Former NACCA Board Chair
Elaine Chambers
Former NACCA Board Chair
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Lunch & Visit Vendor Market
12:00pm - 1:00pm
First Mover Nations: El Salvador’s Blockchain Revolution and the Opportunity for First Nations
1:00pm - 1:30pm
First Mover Nations: El Salvador’s Blockchain Revolution and the Opportunity for First Nations explore how blockchain is reshaping finance and what First Nations can learn from El Salvador’s bold move to embrace Bitcoin and digital assets as tools for economic sovereignty. In this powerful keynote, El Salvador’s Digital Asset Regulator shares the inside story of how first-mover thinking turned a nation facing deep economic challenges into a global digital asset leader and why First Nations now have a similar opportunity to strengthen First Nations business, create wealth, and advance self-determination through culturally grounded participation in the new economy.
Presenter:
Juan Carlos Reyes
President, Nationwide Digital Belongings Fee (CNAD) of El Salvador
Entertainment: Brady Holm - Youth Showcase Comedian (Inuk)
1:30pm - 2:00pm
Brady Holm brings sharp humour and heart, reminding us that joy, laughter, and resilience are powerful forces in Indigenous futures.
Featuring:
Brady Holm
Jennifer Laewetz Indig Politico Keynote
2:00pm - 2:30pm
Jennifer Laewetz, a nêhiyaw iskwêw from George Gordon First Nation, is one of Canada’s most fearless Indigenous voices and social media influencers. Jennifer will deliver a raw and insightful presentation about dismantling narratives, driving political action, and using platforms to speak truth to.
Presenter:
Jennifer Laewetz
Indig Politico
Closing Ceremonies
2:30pm - 2:45pm
As we continue celebrating Indigenous excellence, we thank you for attending the 7th edition of the NACCA Indigenous Prosperity Forum and for being part of marking the 30th anniversary of the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association. We’re grateful to share in such a meaningful gathering.
We look forward to carrying this momentum forward and welcoming you back in May 2027!
Closing Remarks:
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Closing Prayer:
Elder Claudette Commanda
NACCA 2026 Forum
SPONSORS
Soar Indigenous Prosperity
AGENDA
Check the Forum agenda for all events
2026 AGENDA
Forum Agenda is subject to change.
View the agenda here to stay up to date on the latest events.
Select a date
TUESDAY MAY 5TH
IFI GM & Chairs Meeting
9:00am - 4:30pm
The IFI, GM & Chairs meeting focuses on strategic planning, policy workshops, and governance.
Prosperity Exchange Reception Featuring DJ Pøptrt
6:30pm - 9:30pm
All are Welcome!
Welcome to the 2026 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:
DJ Pøptrt
WEDNESDAY MAY 6TH
Registration, Breakfast & Networking
7:30am - 9:00am
Opening Ceremonies
9:00am - 9:15am
Host:
Christine Genier
Opening Prayer:
Elder Claudette Commanda
Welcome Address:
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Keith Matthew
Board Chair , NACCA
Sovereignty in Motion: Indigenous Economies on the World Stage
9:30am - 10:45am
From New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the Arctic, Indigenous businesses and people are facing shared barriers and new global opportunities. This fast-paced discussion will explore what Indigenous economic sovereignty and global trade looks like on the global stage. Indigenous procurement leaders will share strategies to expand the trade of Indigenous products across new and expanding trade networks with the shared goal of advancing Indigenous prosperity on a global stage.
KEYNOTE: The Honourable Nanaia Mahuta – Former Māori Cabinet Minister, Parliament of New Zealand “Resilient Futures: Indigenous Leadership in Redesigning Trade and Diplomacy.”
Moderator:
Mark Dokis
First Nations Procurement Authority
Panelists:
Kate Russell
CEO, Supply Nation Australia
Anna Jane Edwards
CEO, Amotai – New Zealand
Jody Anderson
Chair, First Nations Procurement Authority
Health Break & Visit Vendor Market
10:45am - 11:00am
TD Indigenous Banking - Platinum Sponsor
11:00am - 11:15pm
TD Indigenous Banking outlines how capital and partnership can unlock the next era of Indigenous business growth and community wealth-building.
Presenter:
Pheroz M. Austin
A.V.P. Eastern Canada, T.D. Indigenous Banking Group
From Idea to Impact: Inside NACCA’s Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program
11:15am - 12:00pm
Explore NACCA’s Indigenous Entrepreneurship Program. What it is, why it matters, and how it is driving real outcomes for Indigenous entrepreneurs across the country. Kevin Rose will highlight program successes, lessons learned, and what’s ahead.
- History of the IEP
- History of Women’s Programming
- Slido – Youth Programming Opportunity / Innovation (Digital, Social, Entrepreneurship, etc.)
Moderators:
Kevin Rose
Chief Strategy Officer, NACCA
Magnolia Perron
Director Partnerships, NACCA
Lunch & Visit Vendor Market
12:00pm - 1:00pm
TikTok – Indigenous Creators in the Digital Economy
1:00pm - 1:15pm
Presenter:
Jayson Hilchie
Government Relations Lead, TikTok
Yänonhchia’ Housing Initiative: Building Equity Where It Matters: Financing Indigenous Homeownership
1:15pm - 2:15pm
Homeownership is more than housing, it’s about equity, stability, and intergenerational wealth. This panel examines how capital, policy, and community‑driven innovation can work together to expand access to Indigenous homeownership. Panelists will share real‑world insights from successful housing finance initiatives, risk‑sharing models, and cross‑sector partnerships that are helping communities move from dependency to ownership.
Moderator:
Dominique Collin
Panelists:
Chief Lance Haymond
Co‑chair, National Chiefs Committee on Housing and Infrastructure for the Assembly of First Nation
Travis Seymour
CEO, First Nations Market Housing Fund
Martin Legare
Executive Director, Aboriginal Savings Corporation of Canada
Elaine Chambers
Board Member, NACCA
CEO, däna Näye Ventures
Breakout Session - Sponsored by Farm Credit Canada
1:00pm - 2:00pm
FCC is the leading lender in Canadian agriculture and food. We are investing in industry success through innovation, productivity and sustainability. Our customers rely on us for financing, capital, AgExpert management software, knowledge and industry connections. As a trusted partner and commercial Crown corporation that reinvests profits into ag and food, FCC is essential in building a stronger, more prosperous food industry for all Canadians.
FAC est le principal prêteur à l’agriculture et à l’agroalimentaire au Canada. Nous investissons dans la réussite de l’industrie en favorisant l’innovation, la productivité et la durabilité. Notre clientèle compte sur nous pour accéder à du financement, à des solutions de capital, aux logiciels de gestion AgExpert, ainsi qu’à notre expertise et à nos relations au sein de l’industrie. À titre de partenaire de confiance et de société d’État à vocation commerciale qui réinvestit ses bénéfices dans l’agriculture et l’agroalimentaire, FAC joue un rôle essentiel dans la vigueur et la prospérité de l’industrie, et ce, au profit de toute la population canadienne
Location:
Salon du Jardin
Health Break & Visit Vendor Market
2:15pm - 2:30pm
NACCA – ALTO Signing Ceremony
2:30pm - 2:45pm
Launchpad Live: Indigenous Entrepreneurs Take the Stage
2:45pm - 3:45pm
Watch emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs pitch bold business ideas refined through the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) Launchpad, competing for support that can propel their ventures to the next level.
Winner announced at NACCA Forum Gala
Sponsored by:
RBC Origins
Looking Ahead – What’s Next for the Network
3:45pm - 4:15pm
Presenter:
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Indigenous Prosperity Forum 'Networking Hour'
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Visit the Vendor Market and support Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs.
Yanonhchia Housing Event – Sponsored Side Room
4:00pm - 5:00pm
Host:
Yänonhchia’ Housing Finance
Indigenous Prosperity Pre-Gala Reception
6:00pm - 6:30pm
SOAR - The NACCA & IFI Network present the Gala & Indigenous Business Awards
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Sponsored by Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)
Celebrating Indigenous excellence with an evening of recognition and world class Indigenous entertainment. Join us as we honour Indigenous entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders from across Turtle Island.
6:30 pm Opening Entertainment
6:35 pm Salad
7:15 pm Soup
7:30 pm Keynote Speaker
7:45 pm Main Course
8:00 pm Online Auction Closes
8:15 pm Dessert
8:45 pm Performances & Awards
Chanelle Munroe
The World’s Only Métis Woman Stage Magician with Sean Watson.
Nominated as Canada’s Magician of the Year
Launch Pad Live – IPF Pitch Award Winner Announcement
Indigenous Business Awards
THURSDAY MAY 7TH
Breakfast & Visit Vendor Market
7:30am - 9:00am
Youth Panel: Next-Gen Indigenous Entrepreneurs: Technology, Trade, and Transformation
9:05am - 9:45am
Indigenous youth are leading a new era of entrepreneurship, using innovation, technology, and international opportunities to expand the reach and impact of their businesses. This dynamic panel will feature youth entrepreneurs, program leaders, and experts who are driving solutions in technology, global trade, and business innovation.
Panelists will share how they are leveraging digital platforms, incubators, mentorship, and international networks to scale their ventures. The discussion will explore what Indigenous youth need to succeed in a rapidly changing economy, what programs and initiatives are most effective, and how collaborations across borders, sectors, and communities are shaping a prosperous future. Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights Indigenous youth as innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders ready to make a global impact.
Moderator:
Amy Jackson
Director, Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah, RRC Polytech
Panelists:
Amanda Muskego
Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Business Support Officer, Alberta Indian Investment Corporation
Keenan Beavis
Longhouse Branding & Marketing
Darion Ducharme
Founder & CEO, Teqare
Amanda Anderson
Co-founder, Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co.
Scaling by Design: A Data‑Driven Fireside Chat on the Indigenous Growth Fund
9:45am - 10:30am
Capital, when deployed with precision, can shift the trajectory of entire economies. This session explores how the Indigenous Growth Fund (IGF) is doing exactly that, accelerating the growth of Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and the businesses they finance. Drawing on new portfolio data from eight IFIs, we’ll examine how additional capital has strengthened its lending capacity and fueled network‑wide growth. The discussion will also highlight what becomes possible when structural capital barriers are removed and how investors and partners can help shape what comes next.
Presenters:
Frank Richter
Managing Director, Indigenous Growth Fund
Bill Murray
Director, Indigenous Growth Fund
Health Break & Visit Vendor Market
10:30am - 10:45am
Trading New Paths: Diversity in the Market
10:45am - 11:15am
Export Development Canada explores how Indigenous businesses can diversify trade, reach new markets, and compete globally while staying rooted in community values.
Moderator:
Donna St. Louis
National Lead, Indigenous Business | Inclusive Trade (EDC)
Panelists:
Anthony Wingham
Co-Owner, Nuez Acres
Jolene Johnson
CEO, Wabinaki Maple
NACCA's 30th Anniversary – On the Path to Prosperity
11:15am - 12:00pm
Thirty years ago, it started with seeing the need. Listen to the story of the resilient journey of what it took to build NACCA and the IFI network from the ground up. The milestones that shaped impact, hearing from the pioneers of prosperity and a look at legacy, leadership, and the future we are building together.
Presenters:
Keith Matthew
NACCA Board Chair
Jean Vincent
Former NACCA Board Chair
Elaine Chambers
Former NACCA Board Chair
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Lunch & Visit Vendor Market
12:00pm - 1:00pm
First Mover Nations: El Salvador’s Blockchain Revolution and the Opportunity for First Nations
1:00pm - 1:30pm
First Mover Nations: El Salvador’s Blockchain Revolution and the Opportunity for First Nations explore how blockchain is reshaping finance and what First Nations can learn from El Salvador’s bold move to embrace Bitcoin and digital assets as tools for economic sovereignty. In this powerful keynote, El Salvador’s Digital Asset Regulator shares the inside story of how first-mover thinking turned a nation facing deep economic challenges into a global digital asset leader and why First Nations now have a similar opportunity to strengthen First Nations business, create wealth, and advance self-determination through culturally grounded participation in the new economy.
Presenter:
Juan Carlos Reyes
President, Nationwide Digital Belongings Fee (CNAD) of El Salvador
Entertainment: Brady Holm - Youth Showcase Comedian (Inuk)
1:30pm - 2:00pm
Brady Holm brings sharp humour and heart, reminding us that joy, laughter, and resilience are powerful forces in Indigenous futures.
Featuring:
Brady Holm
Jennifer Laewetz Indig Politico Keynote
2:00pm - 2:30pm
Jennifer Laewetz, a nêhiyaw iskwêw from George Gordon First Nation, is one of Canada’s most fearless Indigenous voices and social media influencers. Jennifer will deliver a raw and insightful presentation about dismantling narratives, driving political action, and using platforms to speak truth to.
Presenter:
Jennifer Laewetz
Indig Politico
Closing Ceremonies
2:30pm - 2:45pm
As we continue celebrating Indigenous excellence, we thank you for attending the 7th edition of the NACCA Indigenous Prosperity Forum and for being part of marking the 30th anniversary of the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association. We’re grateful to share in such a meaningful gathering.
We look forward to carrying this momentum forward and welcoming you back in May 2027!
Closing Remarks:
Shannin Metatawabin
CEO, NACCA
Closing Prayer:
Elder Claudette Commanda
NACCA 2026 Forum
SPONSORS
