Aboriginal Marketplace

VOLUME 3 - ISSUE 5 ///// OCT/NOV 2014

THE GREAT PIPELINE

DEBATE WILL ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES PARTICIPATE?

FISCAL & ECONOMIC TERRORISM

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NABOC PRINCE RUPERT 2015

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GOVERNMENT OF CANADA AND NAMGIS FIRST NATION ANNOUNCEMENT

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///// COVER STORY 08 THE GREAT PIPELINE DEBATE

WILL ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES PARTICIPATE?

///// IN THIS ISSUE

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PUBLISHER Geoff Greenwell 2G Group of Companies geoff@2ggroup.ca MANAGING EDITOR Marlon Louis editor@aboriginalmarketplace.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tina Lee Rodocker tina@2ggroup.ca

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ADVERTISING SALES Marlon Louis editor@aboriginalmarketplace.com

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BRITCO DONATES LIBRARY BUILDING TO KWAKIUTL FIRST NATION

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FISCAL AND ECONOMIC TERRORISM AT THE HEART OF C-27 FIRST NATIONS TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT

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FIRST EVER FIRST NATIONS GAS STATION AND CONVENIENCE STORE CONFERENCE AND TRADESHOW AT NK’MIP RESORT - SOLD OUT!

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NABOC 2015 PRINCE RUPERT EVENT SHAPING UP TO THE BE THE BIGGEST EVER

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SPIRIT BEAR COFFEE ABORIGINAL TRAVEL SERVICES 2014 NATIONAL ABORIGINAL BUSINESS LEADERSHIP SUMMIT A GREAT SUCCESS! FIXED OR FLOATING? FIRST NATIONS FINANCE AUTHORITY

ABORIGINAL MENTORING & 28 THE TRAINING ASSOCIATION

2014 PRODUCTION SCHEDULE Dec/Jan (2015)

WWW.ABORIGINALMARKETPLACE.COM

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA AND NAMGIS FIRST NATION ANNOUNCE RUN-OF-THE-RIVER HYDROELECTRIC DEVELOPMENT

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CONTRIBUTORS Keith Henry, Merle Alexander, Frank Busch, Geoff Greenwell, Deneen Allen and Mike Robbins

DISTRIBUTION Aboriginal Marketplace is published by 2G Group of Companies ©2012 all rights reserved. The magazine is distributed globally online and in printed form in Canada. The views expressed in the Aboriginal Marketplace are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily those of the publisher or staff.

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1000 ABORIGINAL HIRES FOR BC RESOURCE SECTOR

COMMUNITY ECOTOURISM 29 ARVIAT (ACE) INITIATIVE – AN INSPIRATION FOR REMOTE ECOTOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN CANADA

///// FEATURES 09 KEEPING IT RIEL 12 LEGAL EAGLE

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Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 3

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA AND NAMGIS FIRST NATION ANNOUNCE RUN-OF-THE-RIVER HYDROELECTRIC DEVELOPMENT

M

inister of Finance Joe Oliver recently announced the Government of Canada’s support for the Kokish River Hydroelectric Project, through a P3 Canada Fund preferential loan of up to $12.94 million.

This low-interest loan is the first of its kind in Canada and will help the Namgis First Nation to build equity in the 45 megawatt runof-the-river hydroelectric development located within their territory. The

THE KOKISH RIVER PROJECT EMBODIES NAMGIS VALUES OF RESPECT FOR ENVIRONMENT, CULTURE AND SOUND MANAGEMENT. infrastructure will produce electricity for sale to BC Hydro under a 40-year Electricity Purchase Agreement. A portion of the revenue generated each year will be directed into a Namgis Community Benefit Fund.

This is the first P3 Canada Fund project with a First Nation involved as an actual equity partner. The project is owned and managed by Kwagis Power LP, a limited partnership of the Namgis First Nation and Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners, with Brookfield responsible for design, construction, financing, operations 4 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

and maintenance, and Namgis as a partner in decision making and monitoring.

By entering into this long-term partnership agreement, the Namgis have secured an active role and participation in a sustainable energy project in their ancestral lands, without undue risk to Namgis people. The First Nation has the ability to monitor and evaluate the private partner’s performance throughout the life of the project.

The $1.2-billion P3 Canada Fund is managed by PPP Canada, a Crown corporation responsible for advancing Canadian public-private partnerships (P3s) through the provision of expert advice and support to all levels of government.

Joe Oliver, Minister of Finance for the federal government said “This innovative P3 project will allow the Namgis First Nation to generate both energy and revenue while safeguarding North Vancouver Island’s ecosystem. It also means high-quality jobs will be available for people in the Namgis community over the next 40 years.”

Namgis First Nation Chief Debra Hanuse said “The Kokish River project embodies Namgis values of respect for environment, culture and sound management. Through the P3 Canada Fund loan, we were able to establish a partnership with a corporation that shares our values. This partnership will enable our Nation to share in the economic benefits derived from our ancestral lands.”

BRITCO DONATES

LIBRARY BUILDING TO KWAKIUTL FIRST NATION

Fort Rupert Library Learning Centre

T

he Kwakiutl peoples are traditional inhabitants of the coastal areas of northeastern Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia with around 7,718 band members. Traditionally fishers, the Kwakiutl continue to fish commercially in a highly-competitive industry.

The initiative sees Britco working in partnership with BC’s Lieutenant Governor, Government House and Rotary International to provide First Nations library facilities to remote communities throughout BC. “It’s an honor for Britco to work with Lieutenant Governor the Hon. Judith Guichon and Government House on projects like these,” said Mike Ridley, President of Britco. “We’re very happy we’re in a position to provide

library facilities in remote areas as part of our Community Literacy Initiative.”

The Kwakiutl First Nation was an active partner in the planning and design of the Learning Centre, which includes 3,000 donated books, a computer lab with internet access, a large open common area, a kitchen and a washroom.

“Britco’s ability to transform and deliver these buildings to remote communities has been a real asset to our literacy efforts,” said Hon. Judith Guichon. “They’re a very valuable contributor to the program.”

The Community Literacy Initiative aims to improve literacy in remote communities that would otherwise have to travel great distances to access books and internet services.

With nearly 900 employees and operations in Canada and the United States, Britco is one of the largest commercial modular construction companies in North America.

Britco provides temporary and permanent residential and commercial modular buildings and offers leading design-build capabilities as well as turn-key construction management services for a wide range of customers in the construction, energy and resource sectors. Britco is headquartered in Langley, British Columbia and its parent company is WesternOne Inc. Additional information about Britco and WesternOne is available at www.britco.com, www.weq.ca or www.sedar.com.

Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 5

FISCAL AND ECONOMIC TERRORISM AT THE HEART OF C-27 FIRST NATIONS TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT

O

n September 16, 2014 the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs of Canada, Bernard Valcourt was invited to attend the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs (AOTC) weekly meeting, comprised of Chiefs of Treaty No.6, Treaty No.7 & Treaty No.8. Among the highlighted topics is Bill C-27. The lack of federal leadership in attendance at the Assembly shows the disregard and further breakdown in the relationship that this current Harper regime has with Treaty Nations.

On September 3, 2014, Treaty Nations gathered to unite their voices on C-27- the First Nations Financial Transparency and Accountability Act. These Treaty Nations all agreed that C-27 is unconstitutional and violates the Treaties. Treaty Nations did not give their Free, Prior and Informed consent to C-27.

DIFFERENTIAL AND HARMFUL TREATMENT OF INDIGENOUS PEOPLES MAKES THIS LAW ARBITRARILY DISCRIMINATORY AND BASED IN RACISM; WE DO NOT RECOGNIZE ANY LEGISLATION IMPOSING A MISCHARACTERIZATION OF TREATY MONIES THAT ARE HELD IN TRUST. The objections to C-27 are not about the lack of fiscal responsibilities, but the imbalance that this legislation will create in Indigenous economic participation by giving away proprietary and competitive information to competitors in industry and trade. All in attendance were in agreement to reject C-27.

Their collective vision includes challenging the constitutional validity of the legislation.

Indian Affairs is attempting to implement the legislation so that Treaty Nations share and post all financial activities on the internet.

“Differential and harmful treatment of Indigenous Peoples makes this law arbitrarily discriminatory and based in racism; we do not recognize any legislation imposing a mischaracterization of Treaty monies that are held in trust” stated Chief Wallace Fox of the Onion Lake Cree Nation. “We have a window of opportunity to repeal the legislation and we are organizing our legal positions. Treaty 6 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

Nations always and continue to be accountable to their Peoples. We don’t need the State of Canada imposing their ideals and laws on what transparency means in our communities.

We have seen in the media that the Harper regime hasn’t had much accountability and transparency to all Treaty Nations and Canadians.”

“We recognize the federal government’s attempts in advancing this law to limit, control

& contain Indigenous Nations’ economic participation within the racist policies and law under the Indian Act. Once again, Minister Valcourt has overstepped his jurisdiction and we will challenge him and Prime Minister, Stephen Harper in their attempts to effect this unconstitutional law,” stated Grand Chief Derek Nepinak of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (September 3, 2014).

The new Petro-Canada branded gas station on the Osoyoos Indian Band’s southern reservation land.

FIRST EVER FIRST NATIONS GAS STATION AND CONVENIENCE STORE CONFERENCE AND TRADESHOW AT NK’MIP RESORT

SOLD OUT! S

uncor the parent company of Petro-Canada has been busy putting together Canada’s first ever conference and tradeshow aimed at First Nations gas stations and convenience stores. As of the press date of this issue of Aboriginal Marketplace the event was sold out!

The conference and tradeshow is being held at the Osoyoos Indian Band’s (OIB) NK’MIP Resort, and Aboriginal Marketplace Events, the events management division of the 2G Group, are helping Suncor plan and execute the event.

“Suncor, under the Petro-Canada brand, has been very active in developing retail opportunities with various First Nations across the country. Our latest site in Osoyoos, a development with the Osoyoos Indian Band, is going to be a great offering for the community.

The Band has put their own style and brand up front together with ours, and we’re looking forward to strong growth together,” said Barry Wood, Dealer Development Manager for Suncor. “With the development of this impressive facility in Osoyoos we decided it would be a good idea to use it as a centerpiece of the conference we’ve been planning,” added Barry.

The inaugural First Nations Gas Station and Convenience Store Conference and Tradeshow – “Imagine the Possibilities” is being held at NK’MIP Resort from October 27th to 29th 2014. Suncor has put together an agenda that features the latest innovative marketing and merchandising concepts in the industry, product positioning advice, financial benefits of working under their name brand, contract development, advice on site locations as well

as numerous other industry specific topics that will be of great value to all First Nation gas station/convenience store operators.

“The target market for this event was any First Nation (or First Nations individual) who operates a gas station/convenience store(s), the information at the event will be really helpful in improving the efficiency and profitability of operating their stores,” said Barry. “The event was also opened up to anyone who wished to attend and we are delighted at the response from a number of industry related exhibitors who have registered to showcase their products and services. Selling out the event in year one is really pleasing and shows the interest that is out there for an event like this,” he added in closing our interview.

For more information on the event including the agenda and accommodation rates at the resort go to www.2ggroup.ca

Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 7

THE GREAT PIPELINE

DEBATE

WILL ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES ACTUALLY AGREE TO PARTICIPATE?

U

nlike the 1950’s when oil and gas companies regularly crossed traditional territories and reserve lands with their pipelines without any compensation, the year 2014 will go down in Canadian history as the year oil and gas companies woke up to the future reality of the pipeline business. The Tsilhqot’in decision was a game changer for all resource extraction companies, and now they finally know they have no choice but to consult and accommodate Aboriginal interests in all future projects.

That being said the biggest hurdle for future pipelines isn’t necessarily financially accommodating Aboriginal communities, it is the concern whether any group of Aboriginal communities along a proposed pipeline group can actually come to a consensus agreement amongst themselves on royalty sharing and equity participation.

Whether these pipelines are going to go north, east, west or south across Canada they are going to cross Aboriginal title lands at some point, and when they do, can the pipeline builders get clarity and certainty on what it is that Aboriginal communities want out of the deal?

As an example the proposed pipelines to the northwest coast of BC currently being negotiated

8 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

by Spectra Energy and Transcanada are crossing the title lands of over 20 different First Nations who have ongoing disputes with each other over ‘overlap territory’ where their land claims intersect without a viable process to resolve this issue.

In situations like this the negotiating teams for the pipeline builders struggle to get agreements that have meaning and certainty, as if even one of the communities along the route of the pipeline refuses to come to an accommodation agreement then the entire project could be jeopardized.

So where is the business leadership for the Aboriginal communities going to come from?

Can the business leaders of the Nations along these pipeline routes set aside the political in-fighting caused by the overlapping territory debate and negotiate a common sense business agreement that will see all of the communities benefit? Is it possible to create an Aboriginal Pipeline Group similar to what was structured in the Northwest Territories by the Inuvialuit, Sahtu, and Gwichʼin communities along the Mackenize Valley route? In that agreement which was signed on June 19, 2003 the Aboriginal Pipeline Group, and TransCanada signed an agreement giving the Aboriginal groups of the Northwest Territories one-third ownership of the pipeline project.

Based on past history of negotiations between Nations along the BC routes it seems unlikely that any collaborative agreement can be reached without some kind of mediation/negotiation process involving an independent third party who is not representing government or industry.

IF LNG and/or oil is to flow in any geographical direction then a group that will be trusted by these Nations needs to establish a dialogue between all of them along the pipeline routes to the Northwest coast of British Columbia, USA border and east coast of Canada.

Some people have recently pointed to Chief Clarence Louie and his new Aboriginal Strategy Group LLP as a potential leader of such a process.

When we asked the Chief about this he replied in his typically pragmatic way, “If we don’t stop fighting amongst ourselves these opportunities will pass us by, we don’t have to agree on where territories begin and end we just need to get together, form our own company and negotiate a bigger piece of the pie so we’ll all benefit. How damn hard can it be to sit the business leaders of these communities down and agree on a royalty formula?”

We hope someone like Chief Louie can help the communities along these pipeline routes to come to a business arrangement soon or maybe we’ll all lose out!

KEEPING IT RIEL ///// KEITH HENRY - PRESIDENT, BC MÉTIS FEDERATION K.HENRY@BCMETIS.COM

KEEPING IT

I

am pleased to continue to offer my personal Métis views and perspective on hot button issues in each edition. This month I want to focus on the importance of the foundation of Métis and urban Aboriginal governance and the impacts to businesses, communities and families.

It is no secret the key to success for Métis and urban Aboriginal communities is tied to the strength of the community governance and decision making. In this context governance is not only tied to a system of running non profits, which most Métis and urban Aboriginal representative organizations are, but also trying to balance traditional knowledge and our respective cultures.

It is ironic that First Nations and Inuit operate under the Federal Indian Act legislation and many feel the act limits and creates challenges. However from my Métis perspective several Métis organizations operate free of this Federal Legislation and under Provincial society laws which also does not meet the needs of our Métis and many urban

RIEL Aboriginal communities. In fact I would argue if you compare the financial strength of First Nations and Inuit organizations across Canada against many Métis or urban Aboriginal societies under Provincial society laws, one might find a startling conclusion.

I continue to address governance issues within my own Métis community and I am growing tired of the apathy and excuses of governments who continue to interfere in communities by propping up false kingdoms, etc. There are Métis organizations millions in debt despite tens of millions in funding over the years from government and industry.

Despite the major investments I would argue that today Métis and urban Aboriginal governance across the country has never been weaker.

As Métis and urban Aboriginal communities we need strong governance but it must start with governments stepping back and ensuring programs and support to raise prosperity are done so objectively and that results are measured with real consequences.

Too often we hear government language claiming a desire to support economic growth but the actions only continue to produce very minimal results as investments are made with organizations who have little to no real community engagement and minimal past results on several fronts.

In closing Métis and many urban Aboriginal people are awaiting the Daniel’s ruling which may in fact recognize rights under Section 91(24) of the Canadian Constitution.

The section forms the legal basis for First Nations and Inuit rights. However, unless Métis and urban Aboriginal organizations have clearly defined governance with clear decision making powers for the grassroots members things will minimally, if ever, really change for the better.

I do not mean to sound pessimistic but the ongoing government policies today will not enable the stronger growth that our families are striving for. There is a way forward but it is becoming clearer to me that we will have to do this on our own and lead by example. In many ways I welcome this but it is unfortunate as well.

Strong governance leads to healthy communities and real results. No matter how difficult this task, I encourage Métis and urban Aboriginal people and organizations to strive for these values.

For more information about the BC Métis Federation please go to our website www.bcmetis.com.

Just trying to keep it Riel! k.henry@bcmetis.com

Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 9

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Aboriginal Travel Services

O

ver the course of the past few years AtBC has explored the concept of providing an Aboriginal travel service initiative to provide further marketing and business support for current Aboriginal cultural tourism experiences that are market ready. The Aboriginal Travel Services business plan is designed to support an increased visitation for Aboriginal tourism experiences as well as provide corporate travel solutions for Aboriginal communities, supporting partners and organizations who want to support the Aboriginal tourism industry.

Aboriginal Travel Services has been established to support corporate travel services for any partner with a focus on serving the Aboriginal communities, Tribal Councils, corporate partners and Aboriginal tourism businesses.

AtBC CEO Mr. Keith Henry stated; “The launch today is a major achievement. It is a reflection of the hard work and dedication by our management team and board of directors.

Extensive review and research was completed and AtBC is extremely proud to launch a First Nations owned and operated service that will reinvest revenues into the Aboriginal tourism industry.”

AtBC Chair Brenda Baptiste stated, “Our leadership team has made Aboriginal Travel Services a priority and this demonstrates commitment to our stakeholders showing that

we are working hard to bring business in new marketing and direct travel planning support.

It also provides Aboriginal communities with a new corporate travel support service creating and supporting our own economies.”

AtBC CEO Mr. Keith Henry concluded; “The future continues to be exciting and Aboriginal Travel Services offers future sustainability to market Aboriginal tourism in British Columbia as well as meet the travel services for all corporate needs including booking flights, hotels, and car rentals.”

Information about Aboriginal Travel Services can be reviewed at www.aboriginaltravelservices.com.

Information about the Aboriginal Tourism Association of British Columbia is available at www.aboriginalbc.com.

Industry Contact

Keith Henry Chief Executive Officer Office 1-604-921-1070 Email khenry@aboriginalbc.com You can follow Aboriginal Tourism BC on twitter @AtBC_Updates

Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 11

LEGAL EAGLE ///// MERLE ALEXANDER - PARTNER, GOWLINGS LLP MERLE.ALEXANDER@GOWLINGS.COM

LLP’S – TIME TO

RETHINK YOUR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRUCTURE?

I

Merle Alexander

wrote an article almost two years ago called “Aboriginal Business Ventures: To JV or LP – That is the Question”.

Well, I guess it is time for me to change my opinion.

The law has changed, so must our advice. It happens.

WHY NOT A LP?

The reason is simple. Recent case law from 2013 in BC and Saskatchewan Court of Appeals have allowed Provincial Governments to charge PST to First Nations LPs. LLPs are the solution to this change in the law.

WHAT ARE YOUR FIRST NATIONS PRIORITIES? 1.

2.

3.

limiting liability; optimizing tax treatment; and ensuring proper business decisions can be made efficiently.

Given these three priorities, we are adapting.

12 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

Limited Liability Partnership (“LLP”) business structure are the best option for First Nation business ventures.

1. Limiting Liability A LLP is particularly useful because of its unique feature of insulating each partner from liability for the negligence of other partners.

The individual partners are not liable for the

debts, obligations, and liabilities of the general partnership.

A LLP is a partnership structure that shields each partner from personal liability for the debts of the partnership and for the negligence and wrongdoing of other partners, except to the extent of the partner’s share in the partnership’s assets. Each partner continues to incur personal liability for that partner’s own negligence or wrongful acts and those of people that the

partner directly supervises and controls.

This can be contrasted to the limited partnership (“LP”) model, where a limited partner is only shielded from liability for the partnership if they do not get involved in its management.

If a limited partner involves him or herself in the management of the partnership, they may be deemed general partners and will lose the protection of limited liability.

In LP, on the other hand, the “general partner” (usually a corporate entity) has the responsibility and liability for managing the affairs of the entire partnership while one or

more “limited” partners contribute capital to the partnership but are not engaged in the management or decision-making. .

2. Optimizing Tax Treatment

A LLP is unique from other structures because with a LLP one looks through the partnership to determine who the partners are in considering taxation. This is particularly important where the partners are Indians or Bands.

Generally speaking, each partner in an LLP is considered to own a proportionate share of the partnership assets equal to that partner’s interest in the partnership. Likewise, any acquisitions by the partnership flow back to each partner as partner is purchasing a proportionate share of the goods or services acquired.

So, where an LLP has one or more Indian or First Nation partner(s), any acquisitions by the partnership will be eligible for exemption from any PST proportional to the Indian or First Nation interests in the partnership, provided the exemption criteria have been met, including: the goods are physically delivered by the seller to the Indian at a location on reserve, title remains with the seller until the goods are delivered, and goods are offloaded on to the reserve. The same goes for the purchase of services: the services must be provided wholly on reserve land or in relation to real property situated on reserve land.

This can be contrasted to an LP, where the exemption is only available if the general partner is an Indian or Band, or to a corporation, where the PST exemption is not available even if all the shareholders are Indians (however salaries may not be subject to income tax).

3. Ensure Business Decisions Can be Made Efficiently

In LLP, partners can take an active role in the business and management decisions of the partnership without exposing themselves to personal liability for the acts of their other partners beyond the value of their investment in the partnership.

Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 13

2015

NABO PRINCE RUPERT SHAPING UP TO THE BE THE BIGGEST EVER

T

he National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference (NABOC) Tour has been stopping in Prince Rupert at the end of April since 2010, and has been co-hosted by the communities of Metlakatla and Lax Kw’alaams First Nations. From April 28th – 30th 2015, Prince Rupert will once again be Canada’s #1 business hot spot as NABOC expects to welcome over 450 delegates from regional First Nations and private sector companies who will all have a focus on creating joint ventures, partnerships, and long-lasting business relationships with one another. Delegates will travel in from across Canada, Asia, Europe, Australia and the USA for 3 great days of business networking. Prior to the main event there will be an all-day Impact Benefit Agreement Session for First Nations delegates only on the 28th. The main conference will open to all delegates on the 29th and carry over onto the 30th. As usual there’ll be great networking opportunities, informative plenary sessions, charity golf and a banquet dinner with live entertainment.

As NABOC events have become known to be a gathering place of leaders and decision makers, all groups in attendance will share common interests in creating their own opportunities, and getting involved in the

14 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

upcoming projects scheduled to take place in the northwest of BC. The proposed LNG projects, the Northwest Transmission Line, the other port related developments, along with the energy and mining opening up in the region will create excellent opportunities for local First Nations to partner with private sector groups. These projects will not only translate into increased employment opportunities, but also an increase in education and training opportunities in the Northern region.

“Since the 1st annual NABOC Prince Rupert event in 2010, over $60 billion worth of development projects have been proposed for this region and with all of these upcoming projects we’ll certainly see continual growth and interest in our annual event,” stated Geoff Greenwell, CEO of 2G Group.

“Growing from 280 delegates and 20 exhibitors in 2010 to 440 delegates and 80 exhibitors in 2014 was a big logistical challenge for our team, but we worked hard with both the Civic Centre and Convention Centre staff to make sure our delegates had positive experiences, the addition of the North Coast Job Fair in 2014 was also very well received by the local community and our exhibitors who were looking to hire local people.”

The North Coast Job Fair will once again be held in conjunction with NABOC Prince Rupert in 2015.

“Projects that were only topics of discussion at

the first NABOC Prince Rupert event in 2010 are now starting to gain traction and come to fruition as many companies have since then established successful and positive partnerships with BC’s northern First Nations groups. These First Nation groups are now paving the way forward by forming joint ventures with large private sector groups and working closely to establish partnerships in a constructive and respectful manner,” Geoff explained.

Ryan Leighton, the Director of Operations for the Metlakatla Development Corporation commented that “NABOC has become the most important First Nations/private sector business conference in northern BC, our development corporation gets great profile and exposure from it. There is much to gain from attending NABOC, business groups are coming together to build upon the partnerships they have and also to establish new ones.”

“The NABOC event is a really important venue, it brings together communities, industry and likeminded business people under one roof, where together they are signing multi-million dollar project contracts, employing local people and investing into the communities” commented Chris Sankey, HR Chair and Councillor for the Lax Kw’alaams Band.

Each year, more and more organizations attend the NABOC Prince Rupert event in hopes of establishing equitable and beneficial

BOC OC GROWING FROM 280 DELEGATES AND 20 EXHIBITORS IN 2010 TO 440 DELEGATES AND 80 EXHIBITORS IN 2014 WAS A BIG LOGISTICAL CHALLENGE FOR OUR TEAM, BUT WE WORKED HARD WITH BOTH THE CIVIC CENTRE AND CONVENTION CENTRE STAFF TO MAKE SURE OUR DELEGATES HAD POSITIVE EXPERIENCES.

relationships with local First Nation groups. All regional First Nations have openly declared that ‘our doors are open for business’ and they are actively seeking successful joint ventures and partnerships with private sector groups.

Neil Philcox from The Blended Capital Group has attended every NABOC Prince Rupert event and stated that, “NABOC is an energetic gathering of Aboriginal leaders, industry participants and entrepreneurial talent. It is an important opportunity to learn from those who have successfully established new business ventures, and to support leaders who are building stronger economic foundations for their communities. The Blended Capital Group attends all NABOC events and we look forward to the upcoming Prince Rupert stop in 2015”.

Sponsors for the 2015 NABOC Prince Rupert are beginning to sign up and as usual CFNR will stream the event live and Aboriginal Marketplace, CBC Radio and the Northern View will be providing media coverage.

Each year 2G Group’s - Aboriginal Marketplace Events division continues to showcase existing partnerships and focus on creating new ones through the NABOC Conference Tour. Not only has the Prince Rupert stop become the most popular business networking event in northern BC, numerous multimillion dollar projects have been created based on relationships formed at this unique conference series.

If you’re looking to expand and/or open up your business in the North and are interested in creating successful joint ventures and partnerships with local First Nation groups, then you don’t want to miss the 2015 NABOC Prince Rupert event. Put it in your calendar for 2015 to join the movers and shakers of northern BC from April 28th – 30th at the Jim Ciccone Civic Centre. For more information on sponsorship, exhibiting and attending as a delegate go to www.2ggroup.ca Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 15

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8/21/2014 4:12:25 PM

NATIONAL ABORIGINAL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES CONFERENCE SERIES

“Creating Relationships”

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A B O R I G I N A L M A R K E T P L A C E . C O M

Spirit Bear

coffee P

aul Biglin, co-owner of Spirit Bear Coffee, is a passionate advocate for community development. He’s also passionate about good coffee.

“Coffee can do something technology can’t; it’s a way for people to look into each other’s eyes and get an idea of who they really are,” said Biglin. “Coffee makes space for the human connection, bringing back the “art of communication.”

When the vision of a sustainable coffee came to Biglin and partners Sean Harding and Norm Hebert, it wasn’t just about perfectly roasted beans. It was also about the power of a purchase to make a difference for individuals, communities, and the environment.

Organic, fair trade coffee that gives back to the source is the driving force behind the pure Arabica beans Paul now sells across Canada and into the United States. The communities where the coffee is grown benefit from the sales, as do the First Nation communities which have entrusted Biglin’s company with their stories and cultural symbols. In return for the use of the spirit bear name to brand its company, Spirit Bear

18 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

“COFFEE MAKES SPACE FOR THE HUMAN CONNECTION,” SAYS PAUL BIGLIN, CO-OWNER OF SPIRIT BEAR COFFEE.

Coffee donates a percentage of their profits to the preservation of the Great Bear Rainforest and also supports wildlife sanctuaries across Canada.

Bill Helin, brand designer and partner in the company, is a member of the Tsimshian Nation and the team’s link to the Tsimshian community and culture. Since Spirit Bear coffees helps raise awareness of First Nation culture, Bill seeks input from Tsimshian elders when a new design element is being considered. Every new coffee roast is linked to a coastal First Nations story and named after a symbolic animal.

Over the past five years, Spirit Bear has expanded to more than 300 venues across Canada, parts of the United States, and even earned the role of official coffee of Whistler-Blackcomb and Metro Vancouver Parks and Recreation. This growing company seizes opportunities

to build long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships.

Spirit Bear Coffee supports young First Nations entrepreneurs through its “pop-up coffee shop” program.

Spirit Bear Coffee also provides opportunities for young First Nations entrepreneurs to gain experience in the hospitality industry. Through their coffee program, organizations can create a “pop-up coffee shop” and sell coffee at events. The people operating the pop-up shops then have the option of turning this temporary arrangement into a longer-term business opportunity.

Spirit Bear can credit some of its success to conferences such as NABOC and the First Nations Gas Station and Convenience store Conference being held in Osoyoos, BC in October. During this event Spirit Bear Coffee will launch their Great Bear Coffee & Tea Kiosks designed for First Nations Gas Stations.

These events offer revolutionary opportunity for Aboriginal businesses — and businesses looking to do business with First Nations — to come together and network in fast, focused meetings. For many participants, these

meetings have resulted in both on-the-spot deals and future partnerships.

“Meeting face-to-face and connecting with others is how we communicate our standards and goals,” said Biglin. “Networking is essential to our business.”

Spirit bears play an important role in the culture of West coast First Nations. The spirit bear (Kermode bear), which lives on the central and north coast of British Columbia, Canada, is a subspecies of the North American Black Bear. About 10 per cent of Kermode bears have white or creamcoloured coats.

For more information about Spirit Bear Coffee contact: Paul (Mokey) Biglin Spirit Bear Coffee Company O: 604-468-4442 M: 778-246-2327 E: paul@spiritbearcoffeecompany.com

Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 19

Aboriginal Travel Services ABORIGINAL TRAVEL SERVICES - 1303 HOMER STREET VANCOUVER, BC V6B 5M9 1-855-319-4552

PHOTO: Spirit of Haida Gwaii Sculpture Jade Canoe, inside Vancouver International Airport, a sculpture by Haida artist Bill Reid.

“

The recent launch of Aboriginal Travel Services earlier this year is a major achievement and is a reflection of the hard work and dedication by our management team and board of directors,” says Keith Henry, CEO of Aboriginal Tourism BC. “Extensive review and research was completed and AtBC is extremely proud to have established a First Nations owned and operated agency that is reinvesting profits into the Aboriginal communities and tourism initiatives - truly a win-win for all involved.”

Developed as a social enterprise, ATS’ mandate is to work with First Nations bands, organizations, individuals and corporations within British Columbia and across Canada.

Working with an established host agency with extensive experience, ATS uses the latest technology including a comprehensive online booking platform, which allows ATS to provide the best rates with airlines, hotels and car rental companies. A robust suite of customized reports provides real time flight statistics, showing transparency for travel spend and expenses

“THE MANDATE AND PHILOSOPHY BEHIND THE FORMATION OF ATS ALIGNS PERFECTLY WITH 2G GROUP’S MISSION STATEMENT OF “CREATING EQUITABLE BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS WITH CANADA’S FIRST PEOPLES” SO WE ARE DELIGHTED TO SUPPORT THE INITIATIVE AND ENCOURAGE ALL OF OUR DELEGATES TO UTILIZE ATS.” 20 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

of BC, we have cultivated strong affiliations within the industry, built upon a reputation of trust and expertise.

Aboriginal Travel Services was developed with the dual purpose of selling travel services that directly impact the culture and economic opportunities among First Nations communities throughout Canada.

First Nations employment growth within the agency and among the Aboriginal Tourism experiences we are selling is a key component of our business model. Supporting Aboriginal Travel Services is supporting First Nations communities, as a portion of all revenues are directed to youth scholarships in tourism and hospitality.

including automated credit card reconciliation.

Completing the full spectrum of services, it also offers full meeting and event planning.

With an extensive knowledge of local, authentic Aboriginal experiences, ATS is also able to provide unique packages to interested leisure and corporate travellers. “Our clients in general are encouraged by the social enterprise aspect of the agency and want to play a role in assisting our efforts of giving back to First Nations communities”, says Scott Roberts, Vice President of Aboriginal Travel Services. There is a growing trend among leisure travelers to increase their awareness of the First Nations cultures and incorporate an Aboriginal experience into their itinerary.

“Our leadership team has made Aboriginal Travel Services a priority and this demonstrates commitment to our Stakeholders showing that we are working hard to support Aboriginal business with additional marketing and direct travel planning support,” says Keith Henry, CEO of Aboriginal Tourism BC. “It also provides Aboriginal communities with a new corporate travel support service creating and supporting our own communities.” A dedicated travel consultant is behind every booking and each travel request entails a list of personalized travel preferences that enables our customers to choose the best option that suits their needs.

Whether it’s offering an authentic Aboriginal vacation getaway or a corporate trip, we’ve made it our business to understand our customers, know what they value in a travel experience and offer a personal touch that cannot be obtained from an online channel. We are an established local business with a proud First Nations heritage and a trusted partner within the community. As a division of the Aboriginal Tourism Association

Geoff Greenwell CEO of 2G Group recently signed a commitment to partner with ATS to be the official ‘travel partner’ for all 2G Group and Aboriginal Marketplace events. “The mandate and philosophy behind the formation of ATS aligns perfectly with 2G Group’s mission statement of “creating equitable business relationships with Canada’s First Peoples” so we are delighted to support the initiative and encourage all of our delegates to utilize ATS,” said Geoff.

Information about Aboriginal Travel Services can be reviewed at www.aboriginaltravelservices.com.

Respecting your traditions inspires us to go beyond MNP combines traditional accounting with comprehensive business advisory solutions to meet the needs of our Aboriginal clients For more than 25 years, MNP has been proud of its relationship with Aboriginal communities throughout Canada. We recognize and respect the role traditional values play in your planning and decision-making process. As such, we continue to build on those traditions by developing close community ties and providing value-added services that go beyond accounting and tax services to help you prosper. With 16 offices throughout B.C., MNP offers local expertise and insight to ensure you’re well positioned to seize opportunities and achieve your goals.

Kenny Ansems, CPA, CA, CAFM Provincial Director, Aboriginal Services, B.C. & Yukon T: 250.734.4335 E: kenny.ansems@mnp.ca

Mike Bonshor, CPA, CMA B.C. Leader, Aboriginal Consulting T: 778.374.2128 E: michael.bonshor@mnp.ca

Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 21

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2014 NATIONAL ABORIGINAL BUSINESS LEADERSHIP SUMMIT A GREAT SUCCESS!

S

George Leach at the NK’MIP Desert Cultural Centre

eptember 9th – 11th saw 220 delegates once again converge on the Osoyoos Indian Band’s NK’MIP Resort for the 6th annual National Aboriginal Business Leadership Summit hosted by Chief Clarence Louie.

This event has become one of the most popular Aboriginal/Private Sector business networking events in western Canada. All 6 annual events have sold out and the feedback from delegates has always been really positive.

The format was a little different this year though with September 9th being set aside for Aboriginal delegates only for an Impact Benefit

24 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

The Conference Room was Packed for the Plenary Sessions

Agreement sharing session featuring Chief Roger William of the Tsilqot’inh Nation as the keynote speaker. “We continually ask our delegates for feedback at all of our events and we take onboard as many of the good suggestions as we can; this IBA sharing session was very well received and we look forward to adding this kind of session to some of our other events,” said Geoff Greenwell, CEO of 2G Group.

“People love coming to the Osoyoos Indian Band’s NK’MIP Resort anyway, it is such a special place and has a fantastic aura of hope and success, however we continually want to improve on previous years and create as much value as possible for our delegates,” added Geoff. “Day 1

Chief Roger William Addresses the Delegates

THIS EVENT HAS BECOME ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR ABORIGINAL/PRIVATE SECTOR BUSINESS NETWORKING EVENTS IN WESTERN CANADA.

Neil Philcox from TBCG Discusses Financial Strategy

this year was dedicated to sharing information on Impact Benefit Agreements. Around 100 Aboriginal delegates and representatives of Aboriginal business groups attended the session with no private sector or government delegates being allowed in. The intent of this 1 day session, which was led by prominent IBA lawyers from Gowlings LLP, was to allow for open dialogue

and information sharing about IBA’s between Aboriginal groups,” Geoff explained.

“Day 2 of the event was open to all delegates with some excellent plenary sessions and on day 3 we created a schedule to allow for all-day oneon-one networking and business pitching. People told us they wanted to do more networking and less listening so we altered the format of the event

to maximize the networking opportunities,” said Geoff.

George Leach once again wowed the audience at the hospitality event at the NK’MIP Desert Cultural Centre which is a great outdoor venue for listening to music while you’re eating under the stars.

“The theme of this year’s event was ‘Time for Change’ and it really is time for change,” said Chief Clarence Louie when we talked with him recently about the event. “It’s time for all business leaders in this country to help end the Aboriginal dependency cycle. We need to work together to create business opportunities and joint ventures that benefit both aboriginal communities and private sector businesses. We called this year’s event the National Aboriginal Business Leadership Summit because we wanted to see more leaders and decision makers around the table and I’m really pleased that we got over 200 business leaders at the event,” added the Chief.

As usual there was a charity golf tournament and a wine tour which are always popular activities in Osoyoos.

Dates for the 2015 National Aboriginal Business Leadership Summit have already been set as September 15th – 17th and we look forward to reporting on the event once again.

Delegates had a Great Time on the Wine Tour.

Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 25

FIXED OR FLOATING? FRANK BUSCH - DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION & MARKETING, FIRST NATIONS FINANCE AUTHORITY - FBUSCH@FNFA.CA

W

hen planning major projects, a First Nations community must look at the longrun. There are many options available for financing such projects, but are they all equal? As more and more First Nations move away from the “status quo” annual funding model, terms and rates of financing become important to analyze and understand.

The challenge that many First2:49 NII_Ad_1.pdf 1 2014-04-10 Nations community developers face is that they

are very new to the finance game and are up against large, established institutions like charter banks and other retail lenders. Some are not even sure what questions they should be asking.

Let’s try to break it down: First, the First Nation needs a “shovel ready” project. This means that all of the research on permits, environmental assessment, zoning by-laws, and availability of labour and existing infrastructure has been done or has been PM accounted for. The overall cost of the project must be estimated based on solid information

(quotes) or comparisons to other similar completed projects in the region. The old way was to determine what funding was available and what proposals could get approved, effectively putting the cart before the horse. Now that First Nations are able to access financing, community need is first assessed internally (not externally) and then capital can be secured. There are cost associated with all this, and may take months of planning to achieve. First Nations need to use whatever resources and people-power at their disposal to get through the planning phase.

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AS MORE AND MORE FIRST NATIONS MOVE AWAY FROM THE “STATUS QUO” ANNUAL FUNDING MODEL, TERMS AND RATES OF FINANCING BECOME IMPORTANT TO ANALYZE AND UNDERSTAND.

Next, a First Nation needs to secure the necessary capital to build the project. This can come from a variety of sources including community savings, contributions from government or corporate partners and term financing. The keys to determining appropriate financing are 1) rate: the amount of interest to be paid on the loan 2) fixed or floating: is the interest rate “fixed” (does not move, protects budget) or floating (moves up or down based on the markets) and 3) term: the length of time allowed to pay off the loan. In today’s financial markets, interest rates are at an all-time low, though many analysts believe that those rates will have to go up. This is apparent when assessing market rates of loans; shorter terms have lower rates while longer terms have higher rates. The advantage in having a longer term is that the payment amounts are usually smaller, though more interest may be paid in the long run. The deciding factor is usually based on a First Nation’s cash flows, their budgets and whether there is more than one priority project to consider.

Most lenders are going to want to offer shorter terms (less than 10 years) at a “primeplus” or “floating rate” of interest. This means that the interest rate can change up or down depending on financial market factors beyond the First Nations control. It also means that the amount of money needed to service the loan can change over time. The problem with having historically low interest rates worldwide (Germany actually had to offer a negative

interest rate recently) is that there is really only one direction they can go (according to many analysts). If a First Nation’s cash flow is finite or unlikely to increase, then floating rate loans can present a level of financial risk that may not have been anticipated. Adding to this challenge, most commercial lenders will also require collateral, up to and including a “general security assignment” over all of the First Nation’s assets, present and future. Did we mention the fees?

Most retail lenders will require an “application fee” often in the thousands of dollars and may also require an “annual review fee” and the ability to “call-in” the loan due to late payment or at any time they choose.

Other levels of government, such as municipalities, provinces and nations avoid this situation by debenture (bond) financing.

By working together as a group, they are able to issue unsecured debt (notes) based on the general creditworthiness of their governments.

This gives them direct access to the Capital Markets where institutional investors buy the notes at the offered “fixed” rate of interest for terms of 5, 10, 20, 30+ years. Almost all infrastructure in Canada is financed in this way. It is surprising for many to hear that governments in Canada issue almost $1 billion in unsecured debt (bonds) every day!

So what about First Nations? Are they relegated to borrowing at “floating” rates over short terms at retail lenders, or is it possible for them to access the same kind of “wholesale” rates and fixed-terms as municipal, provincial and

national governments?

The First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA), a not-for-profit statutory institution established under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act, answers this need. Borrowing Membership with the FNFA allows First Nations the same options that have been historically available to other governments. It allows First Nations to access the Capital Markets directly with its investment grade credit rating (A3 from Moody’s Investor’s Service). Members will not require collateral or a general security assignment over First Nations assets. Instead, their own source revenue streams provide the credit worthiness, as well as the stability of their First Nations governments. In order to ensure security to investors, Borrowing Members of the FNFA undergo a vetting process to make sure that all members have met the same standards of governance and financial performance.

Now that First Nations governments are being recognized by the Worldwide Financial Markets, they have more options than just settling for short-term floating rate loans and all the fees from retail lenders. First Nations can now leverage their good governance and strong financial markets in order to improve the quality of life for community members. The First Nation can access as much capital as need, as long as their own source revenues can support the annual loan service payments. With the FNFA as an option for large capital financing, all leadership will have to think about in project planning will be Fixed or Floating?

FNFA Team members - Steve Berna, Shannon Jenner, Frank Busch, Ernie Daniels, Jo-Ann Derrickson & Pam Severson Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 27

1000 ABORIGINAL HIRES FOR BC RESOURCE SECTOR

TOGETHER WE WILL BE ABLE TO PURSUE CUSTOMERS SEEKING WORKFORCE ACCOMMODATION AND MODULAR BUILDING RENTAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FOR MANY OF THE PROPOSED ENERGY AND RESOURCE PROJECTS IN THE TRADITIONAL TERRITORY OF THE GITXSAN.

A

MTA celebrates the achievements of Ryan McDougall, of Lower Nicola Indian Band, on his pathway to become the 1000th employed AMTA candidate As the Aboriginal Mentoring & Training Association (AMTA) celebrates 1000 Aboriginal hires, it is proving to be a valuable partner to both Industry and First Nations.

With more than 350 resource sector companies in its employment network, AMTA candidates are getting jobs at the rate of approximately 30 hires per month.

When Atlas Drilling, of Kamloops, BC, recently hired 8 candidates through AMTA, they facilitated the 1000th AMTA hire. Jamie Lyons, Atlas General Manager, is pleased with AMTA’s service and process. In a labour market where candidates are hard to come by, he says “employment agencies just send guys that are looking for work without fitting the job but AMTA has connected us to well-trained candidates.”

On establishing relationships with First Nations, Lyons explains the challenges that AMTA helped him overcome. “It’s been hard to source Aboriginal employees in the past. We have tried to hire from the local bands on different job sites but never really knew who to talk to. AMTA has become the go-to organization and they’ve 28 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

also connected us to First Nations leadership which is helpful for developing future projects.”

According to Lyons, drilling work is contract-based but a good stepping-stone for candidates entering resource sector employment. His employees, like Ryan McDougall, will work on a contract basis for Atlas and are able to continue skills upgrading through AMTA when there is an industry slow-down. Prior to being hired, Ryan completed Pathways to Success, AMTA’s award-winning skills upgrading program, where he achieved job readiness training in a culturally sensitive environment.

“AMTA has helped me by giving me a step up on the competition that I, otherwise, would not have been able to get. Their training, like the fundamentals of career planning, gives you that edge,” says McDougall on the advantages of being an AMTA candidate.

AMTA facilitates the development of long-term, local Aboriginal – Industry relationships through its commitment to connecting employers with labour needs to First Nation communities engaged in resource development.

“We are so pleased to have become recognized as a critical element in creating mutual benefits for our AMTA candidates, First Nation communities and companies,” says AMTA’s CEO, Laurie Sterritt. “We couldn’t

achieve these successes without the commitment of the federal government’s Skills Partnership Fund and industry members. Together, we are fulfilling AMTA’s mission to empower First Nations to create economic health for themselves and their communities through skills training, education and career opportunities.”

AMTA RESULTS AMTA has worked with individuals representing more than 225 First Nations bands, 167 of which are from BC, and more than 350 employers have hired AMTA candidates. Since 2010, AMTA has: • Placed more than 1000 Aboriginal people into jobs; • Registered more than 2700 candidates in a variety of education, training and development initiatives; • Attracted almost 50% female candidates to its programs; • Supported almost 500 individuals to enter Tradesrelated training; • Increased AMTA candidates’ average annual earnings by 285% (from $13,754 to $52,959); • Stimulated candidate contributions of approximately $136,000 annually to Canada’s GDP (a cumulative impact of more than $136 million every year , $107 million of which is realised in BC), providing a net return to Government well in excess of the funds committed.

To learn more about AMTA, visit www.amta-bc.com.

ARVIAT COMMUNITY ECOTOURISM (ACE) INITIATIVE – AN INSPIRATION FOR REMOTE ECOTOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN CANADA

By Deneen Allen and Mike Robbins

I PHOTO: Throat singing at the Visitor Centre

t is a story of passion and dedication - of a community determined to shape its future on its own terms. It is also a story of collaboration between native and non-native people working together with trust and mutual respect. This is the story of ACE: the Arviat Community Ecotourism Initiative.

Since 2009, under contract with Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.* Mike Robbins of The Tourism Company has led a team of ecotourism and hospitality experts, including Deneen Allen of Pure North, Bill Rogoza and Jeffrey Barrett, amongst others, to assist in building a sustainable tourism economy in Arviat through product development, capacity building, small business development, marketing and on-going training and mentoring.

Arviat is Nunavut’s most southern community with close to 3,000 mainly Inuit residents on the western shore of Hudson Bay. Just 163 miles to the south, via regularly scheduled air access, is Churchill, Manitoba, a notable existing tourism base attracting close to 20,000 visitors per year for polar bear viewing.

The initial site evaluation, infrastructure assessment, capacity analysis and the inventory of cultural and wildlife assets conducted by our team revealed that Arviat is a highly traditional community boasting very strong cultural roots, a strong entrepreneurial spirit and incredible opportunities to view caribou and polar bears in season. Inuktitut is still the main language spoken in Arviat and cultural pursuits such as carving, music and performance arts are a big part of community life. All of these factors contributed to Arviat being chosen as one of 3 Nunavut destinations to be beneficiaries of the Tourism Providers Fund from Nunavut TI. As a community-based initiative, extensive community consultation has been integral to the development of ACE. Beginning in 2009, relationship-building and planning was initiated through spending time in Arviat to interview interested participants on their goals and expectations of tourism. Through community events, hiring local people to get out on the land, conducting radio talk-back shows, delivering introductory workshops and attending community meetings, our team got to know Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014 29

THE ARVIAT COMMUNITY ECOTOURISM INITIATIVE WAS OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED AS A MARKET-READY PRODUCT IN 2011 AND INCLUDES AN AMAZING ARRAY OF ACTIVITIES WHICH ARE PUT TOGETHER INTO 3, 4 AND 7 DAY ITINERARIES AND ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH RECEPTIVE TOUR OPERATORS, INCLUDING FRONTIERS NORTH, ARCTIC KINGDOM, GREAT CANADIAN TRAVEL COMPANY AND G ADVENTURES. those who were truly interested in participating in the project and would be committed over the long term. This process was critical to building a healthy and sustainable tourism economy with grass roots in the community regardless of what resources and expertise came from outside.

Simultaneously, our team conducted an inventory and analysis of the infrastructure and hospitality readiness of transportation, utilities, buildings that might be used for tourism activities, emergency services, market-ready product such as arts and crafts, existing hotels and services and other physical facilities which might play a role in the ACE product offering.

This process has led to some truly wonderful supporting relationships with the local high school, Arctic College, the Arviat Hamlet administration and local small businesses, all of whom have stepped up to offer ACE the venues needed for the development of the tourism program.

Very importantly, ACE has been able to access funds from NTI to conduct specific 30 Aboriginal Marketplace - Aug/Sept 2014

and specialized training to support the cultural product development that is now the hallmark of the Arviat tourism offering. This includes training in basic hospitality, ecotourism, cooking, small business entrepreneurship, historical interpretation, cultural performance staging, eco-guiding and outfitting on the land, marine and commercial boating skills, tourism marketing (on-line and travel trade) and logistics.

The Arviat Community Ecotourism Initiative was officially launched as a market-ready product in 2011 and includes an amazing array of activities which are put together into 3, 4 and 7 day itineraries and are available through receptive tour operators, including Frontiers North, Arctic Kingdom, Great Canadian Travel Company and G Adventures. Find out more about this Aboriginal Tourism success story at www.visitarviat.ca *Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) is the Inuit entity charged with ensuring the “Inuit economic, social and cultural well-being through the implementation of the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement�.

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