Robinson-Superior Treaty and Fort William First Nation Territory Thunder Bay, Ontario – The Anishnawbe Business Professional Association (ABPA) is proud to host the first Pathways to Indigenous Prosperity (P2IP) workshop on November 5, 2019, at the Delta by Mariott Hotel in Thunder Bay.
The one-day event will present on best case practices for indigenous inclusion in procurement and provide information on the step-by-step process of submitting a bid for RFPs for major projects throughout Northern Ontario. The networking circle will also cover steps to connect First Nation and other businesses in order to collaborate and enter into joint-venture agreements.
ABPA launched its association earlier this year as a vehicle for empowering the First Nations community in Northern Ontario to focus their strength and increase their impact as business partners in the region’s resource project-driven economy.
“It is reported by the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business that Indigenous peoples are creating new businesses at nine (9) times the Canadian average. These new businesses are both owned and operated by First Nation communities and Indigenous entrepreneurs. These businesses need ongoing access to networking opportunities to engage with the broader Canadian business community. Where projects exist on First Nation traditional territories, the ABPA believes it is crucial that private-sector corporations achieve economic reconciliation through sustainable relationships with First Nations. The ABPA is committed to maximizing opportunities for meaningful participation by Indigenous people in natural resource and industrial development. in addition to building local capacity for industry to engage First Nations people,” says APBA President Jason Rasevych. The venue of ABPA presentations and workshops in this conference reflect clearly the ABPA mandate to further meaningful development of First Nation business and ventures and true collaborative partnership between First Nations business and non-indigenous industry,
P2IP is the ABPA’s 2nd event to connect businesses and communities in the region. Earlier this year the ABPA hosted a business matching event that was well received in the community. There is much anticipation to see what the ABPA does next to engage industry to increase participation by Indigenous businesses in the supply chain for existing or planned projects.
“Our region is a gem with enormous economic opportunities in mining, energy, transportation infrastructure, and the connected supply chains. We encourage all First Nations leadership and their economic and community development professionals to participate and maximize economic opportunities in your traditional lands. We call on all Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses that are aiming to have greater clarity on procurement processes for upcoming projects in the North to register for this event. All participants can benefit in some way from working together,” added Rasevych.
Ticket are $200-450 per person and can be purchased online at www.anishnawbebusiness.com.Sponsorship opportunities are available.
