September 10, 2021
Issue. 04
SECWEPEMC NEWSLETTER The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Online Newsletter is a free online newsletter published for the Secwepemculucw (Shuswap Nation); connecting, celebrating and bringing more awareness to opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs within our Nation. We offer affordable advertising rates, making Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter an accessible option for getting the word out to people in the area. The paper's circulation is electronic and will cover the Secwepemc Nation area. The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter invites stories, comments, photos and any other information relevant to business, entrepreneurship and economic development that would be of interest to our readers. We reserve the right to refuse advertising that does not reflect the concept of the newsletter. Due care and accuracy will be taken in regards to checking advertising copy, but no warranty is implied by the publisher. Our goals for this online newsletter are: To share advice/stories/articles from Indigenous Entrepreneurs/Executives with business skills & expertise Share entrepreneur/business education and training programs/opportunities Promote and inspire entrepreneur business opportunities Assist in development of Nation/Community entrepreneur support/awareness & to create connections and resource sharing in our communities Promote entrepreneur/business events throughout the Nation Share and promote a wide range of entrepreneur/business resources Benefits of advertising within the Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter: Networking/connections More awareness and business connections within our Nation Access and/or share various opportunities, resources & programs Strategic alliance for access to other Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses Opportunity to support and encourage Indigenous entrepreneurship within our Nation Important information sharing regarding Indigenous owned businesses For more information and if you are interested in placing an Ad Space please contact Julie John by email at indig.entrepreneurcoordinator@gmail.com for more details and pricing
IN THIS ISSUE INDIAN TACO FUNDRAISER FOR L.I.F.E. FOUNDATION SEPTEMBER 30TH ORANGE SHIRT DAY INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEUR PROFILES IMPORTANT RESOURCES & LINKS SAVE THE DATES FOR 2022 EVENTS!
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MEET THE STAFF JULIE JOHN - INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEUR COORDINATOR Julie John, Qw7ewt (Little Shuswap Band), believes in connecting and inspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs to build their dreams. As a serial entrepreneur, she dedicates and invests most of her work efforts into Indigenous business and tourism; building on her dream to significantly advance Indigenous entrepreneurship starting in her home Nation Secwepemc. To do this, Julie uses her academic grounding: Events and Convention Management diploma (TRU), Bachelor of Tourism Management with a Major in Entrepreneurship and Minor in Marketing (TRU) and EMBA - Indigenous Business & Leadership at SFU. Right now, Julie is working with Indigenous artisans and youth to help develop their business acumen and access to markets through grounding, culture and community. Contact Julie at indig.entrepreneurcoordinator@gmail.com LISA ORTON - COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT Lisa Orton, Cstélen (Adams Lake Band), is helping with communications and the Secwepemc L.I.F.E. newsletter. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Sociology and First Nations Studies in 2017 and a Secwepemc Language Proficiency Diploma in 2020. She is currently working on a Graduate Certificate in Linguistics. She enjoys gardening, hiking with her dogs, and spending time on the land berry picking, root digging, and gathering medicines. Lisa looks forward to supporting and uplifting Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs in Secwepemcúl̓ecw. Contact Lisa at communications.secwepemc@gmail.com
MAGGIE DOUCETTE OF M.A.D DIGITAL MARKETING MARKETING & GRAPHIC DESIGN Maggie is the owner/operator of M.A.D Digital Marketing, a Social Media Marketing, Graphic & Web Design and Admin company located in Kamloops, BC. Maggie helps the Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter with marketing and designing the Newsletter itself! Contact Maggie at 250-299-4586 The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION
DONATION FORM
First Name: _____________________ Last Name: _______________________ Phone Number: ___________________ Email: ___________________________ City: ____________________ Postal Code: ___________________ Business Name (if applicable): ____________________________________________ Business Address (if applicable): __________________________________________ Business Website (if applicable): __________________________________________ Donation Amount: _________________
Cheques payable to: Leading Indigenous Female Entrepreneur Foundation C-3 – 1515 Little Shuswap Lake Road, Chase BC, V0E 1M0 E-Transfer can be sent to: info.secwepemc@gmail.com Please submit your business logo (JPEG or PNG format) to: Katelynn Kenoras, Project & Office Coordinator info.secwepemc@gmail.com So, we can Acknowledge and Thank You on our social media and website page.
Your donation will go towards our micro-grants to support Indigenous Female Entrepreneurs!
KUKSTSEMC (THANK YOU)
NOTE: This form can be found on our website under the Donate Now section. https://www.leadingindigenousfemaleentrepreneurs.ca/ Physical Address: 632 Shuswap Avenue, Chase, BC V0E 1M0 Mailing Address: C3-1515 Little Shuswap Lake Road, Chase BC V0E 1M0 Office: 250-679-1156 Cell: 250-879-1087
LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION
INDIAN TACO FUNDRAISER AND LOONIE AUCTION
$12.00 A PLATE TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 4 P.M. TO 7 P.M. LOCATION: BE INSPIRED PROFESSIONAL CENTRE 632 SHUSWAP AVENUE CHASE, BC
PLEASE COME OUT AND SUPPORT OUR NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION AND WIN SOME GREAT PRIZES
September 10, 2021
Issue. 04
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ORANGE SHIRT DAY Orange Shirt Day began as a grassroots movement to honour residential school survivors as well as recognize and bring awareness to the trauma wrought by the residential school system. Now a global movement, Indigenous and non-Indigenous people are wearing orange shirts to honour the 215+ children, survivors, and their grieving families. The orange shirt was inspired by a story Phyllis Webstad, a Secwepemc woman from Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek Indian Band), told about losing the new orange shirt her grandmother bought for her on the first day of residential school. That day she was stripped of something given to her with love and thrown into the stark reality of the residential school system. That experience was a callous beginning to the disconsolate years she would spend there and a harsh reminder of how she felt no one cared about her. An experience echoed by so many of the children who went to residential schools felt. Orange shirts have “every child matters” on them to reflect this experience.
Orange Shirt Day is all the more powerful given recent events surrounding the discovery of 215+ children discovered in Tk’emlups. Since then thousands more have been found. Orange shirts have become symbols of solidarity to witness and honour residential school survivors and their families as they grieve and heal. Recently, the Warriors Walk for Healing Nations was met by a multitude of people wearing orange shirts welcoming walkers arriving from the Yukon at the Tk’emlups pow wow arbour. Recently September 30 has also been marked as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and a federal statutory holiday to address one of the 94 calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, specifically action #80. You can access teaching resources to educate on Orange Shirt Day here. Orange Shirt Day Events are happening across the country. Orange shirts can be purchased through the official orange shirt day website, many local organizations also provide orange shirts, just be sure to #buyIndigenous.
SEPTEMBER 30TH NATIONAL DAY FOR TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
NEW PRODUCT RELEASE
INDIGENOUS BUSINESS OWNER SHIRTS! SIZES SM-3XL $30.00 EACH ALL PROCEEDS GO TO LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION CAN BE PURCHASED IN PERSON AT 632 SHUSWAP AVE, CHASE BC OR CONTACT KATELYNN AT 250-679-1156/INFO.SECWEPEMC@GMAIL.COM
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MEETING ROOM RENTAL $25/hour Located at 632 Shuswap Ave, Chase BC
Contact Katelynn for more information at info.secwepemc@gmail.com or call 250-679-1156 PROFESSIONAL CLOTHING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM INTENDED TO HELP WOMEN WHO NEED PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS ATTIRE FOR SITUATIONS SUCH AS INTERVIEWS, EMPLOYMENT, OR OFFICEAPPROPRIATE CLOTHING. LOCATION: 632 Shuswap Avenue, Chase, BC HOURS: 9am-4pm Monday-Thursday Please contact Katelynn Kenoras at the above info arrange drop-off or browsing of the Sisters Closet DONATIONS: We are accepting current season professional clothing and accessories.
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
September 10, 2021
Issue. 04
Pg. 8
CONTENT AND AD SPACE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR OCTOBER 2021 ISSUE IS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2021
WEST HARBOUR VILLAGE, A WATERFRONT 55-Plus ADULT COMMUNITY IN SALMON ARM, BC Nestled on the shores of the beautiful Shuswap Lake, within walking distance of downtown Salmon Arm, is West Harbour Village, an adult community development. This professionally landscaped setting easily blends with the natural beauty of the area. As well as the many aesthetic reasons to purchase a home in this natural and beautiful setting, there are practical reasons too. The Adams Lake Development Corporation has a significant vested interest in both development and success of West Harbour Village and is committed to protecting the interests of its future residents as evidenced by the following: User friendly Sub-Lease agreement Quality infrastructure development and capital outlay with underground services, paved roads, above-ground lighting and enhanced landscaping. Fair property tax rate on house only based on City mill rates Provision to ''sell'' or assign a Sub-lease with original terms included At West Harbour Village you can enjoy the freedom and benefits of yard maintenance, the proximity to shopping, and the peaceful setting and know that it's the simple things in life that give it meaning. A warm, comfy home in a beautiful location, with good friends to share it with. We believe West Harbour Village is unique and will satisfy both the needs and desires of the adult community. We invite you to contact our realtor Marg Kentel of Century 21 at marg.kentel@century21.ca for further information.
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
Indigenous Entrepreneur Profile 2021 Four Winds Driving School
Kerry Chelsea, Esk̓etemc (Alkali Lake), established Four Winds Driving School in Williams Lake, BC with his wife, Shae, in 2017. This business venture originated as a volunteer service for Esk̓etemc youth seeking their driver’s licenses. At the time, Kerry was still an Esk̓etemc Band Councillor addressing a need in the community, however, the demand for driving services became so great that it evolved into a full-time training school. Previous to this business venture, Kerry developed a diverse set of skills and experience working as an RCMP officer, travelling around the world with the Canada World Youth Culture Travel Exchange, 3 years of law school and working as a youth programs and Aboriginal family group conferencing coordinator with Denisiqi. Four Winds Driving School now offers various programs and services for class 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 including Learners permit and Graduated Licensing programs, Defensive driver training, motorcycle training, one-on-one lessons and a reinstatement program. One of Kerry’s biggest business challenges has been dealing with vandalism on the business vehicle used for driving lessons. With tires slashed and racial slurs scrawled on his vehicle, Kerry chose to respond with a message of unity and love on social media and the local news, rather than mirror a negative and hateful act with anger.
Website: www.fourwindsdrive.com Email: fourwinds_drive@outlook.com
Despite these challenges, Kerry's biggest success with Four Winds Driving School is being of service to First nations communities and assisting clients through their driver/rider training. Ultimately, Kerry feels successful in helping youth and adults develop self-confidence and independence on the road.
September 10, 2021
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Issue. 04
CONTENT AND AD SPACE SUBMISSION DEADLINE FOR OCTOBER 2021 ISSUE IS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2021
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
Indigenous Entrepreneur Profile 2021
Wild Rose Healing
Email: wildrosehealingbc@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mobilemassagebc
Sekwaw̓ Peters (Simpcw) is owner/operator of Wild Rose Healing, a holistic healing company offering virtual and inperson services for the mind, body and spirit. Sekwaw̓ offers mobile massage therapy, energy healing, past life regression, guided meditations and yoga classes as well as merch with Secwepemc themed apparel. Sekwaw̓ began began his spiritual journey in yoga practice around age 12. Throughout the years Sekwaw̓ has deepened his knowledge on a range of topics including holistic healing, past life regression and astrology. Early influences on this spiritual path included family members who practiced reiki and energy healing. After following a casual yoga practice into his early 20’s healing from car accident injury opened his eyes to the spiritual side of yoga and with this realization, Sekwaw̓ decided to dedicate himself more deeply to yoga as a spiritual practice. He began yoga teacher training with the guidance of a personal astrologer who helped navigate some difficult decision making and encouraged him to take some risks like starting a business. Sekwaw̓ expressed the challenging part of being an entrepreneur is the capacity to believe in one’s self and the confidence to know what you have to offer is helpful and valuable. Sekwaw̓ strives to be himself, giving himself the space “to allow myself to be who I am while I teach, rather than what I think a yoga teacher should be”. With this in mind, Sekwaw̓ has found success in branching out from his home community and travelling around to different communities for yoga and massage.
September 10, 2021
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WARRIORS WALK FOR HEALING NATIONS Tk̓emlúps te Secwepemc hosted a welcome for a group of walkers arriving from Yukon Territory. The group, Warriors Walk for Healing Nations, arrived on August 9 at the Tk̓emlúps te Secwepemc Powwow Arbour. On June 26, walkers set out on a 2000 km journey from the Yukon to honour and recognize the 215+ children and residential school survivors. Delegates from Gwich’in, Northern & Southern Tutchone, Tlingit, Kaska, Secwepemc, and the Tahltan Nations joined the ceremony to acknowledge and be witness to the journey from Whitehorse, YT to Kamloops, BC. As they completed the final steps of the journey, from the Kamloops Brake Check to Tk̓emlúps te Secwepemc pow wow grounds, they were met by a profusion of orange shirts of qelqelmucw7uw̓i (Indigenous people) warmly welcoming them to Tk̓emlúps te Secwepemc tmicw (land). The journey began with Jamie Henyu of the Tahltan Nation intending to walk to Kamloops alone. However, with the support of Jacqueline Shorty and the Northern Nations Alliance, the solo journey became a group of 3 that transformed into a bigger group as more people joined as they passed through communities along the way. Jamie said of the journey, “It has been really healing for ourselves, the group and everybody we have met so far on this journey”. The event included singing and drumming, speeches, a feast of Indian tacos prepared by Delicious Business Catering, entertainment by the Melawmen Collective, and ended with lehal. In the many speeches from the walkers, we heard of the healing and of the individual and collective pain reignited by the discovery of so many Indigenous children found buried at residential schools. As the walkers took turns speaking about their journey, one heartfully expressed to the crowd that in the end the journey was “about each and everyone of you that are here, it’s about the ones that couldn't walk, it's about all my elders that are here right now with me, survivors of residential schools”.
“K̓woyí7ese t̓e qwllenew̓ll” (Little Birch Bark Canoe) These miniature birch bark canoes were handcrafted by inmates from the Prince George Correctional facility and gifted at the 215+ Welcoming by Tk̓emlups te Secwepemc.
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
September 10, 2021
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Issue. 04
SECWEPEMCTSIN WORD CLOUD SPEQPEQ T’E SEQWLUT! BERRY WORDS!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE BCNWA’S NEWLY APPOINTED BOARD MEMBERS President: Joanne Gottfriedson Vice-President: Kristy Joe Secretary: Julie John Treasurer: Lynn Kenoras-Duck Chief The BCWNA is an organization working to advance the well-being of Indigenous women and girls in BC and Canada through activism, policy analysis, and advocacy. The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
September 10, 2021
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Issue. 04
INDIGENOUS ARTISAN CATALOGUE CFDC of CIFN is excited to announce the revision and update of the Interior B.C. Indigenous Artisan Catalogue. This catalogue will serve to showcase the many talented artisans in the region who are producing their work for sale to the public. The catalogue will feature photos of the artist and their work, a short description of who they are, and contact information. If you are an artist or crafter and would like your work featured in the revised book, please contact shay@cfdcofcifn.com for more information and for an application.
INDIGENOUS ARTISAN SHOUTOUT Tammy Lafleur is an Indigenous artist who paints expressive art pieces, contact Tammy at maskwaden@gmail.com or 250-572-5842 to purchase or view OR Check out Tammy’s art in-person at Maskwa Den at 637 Shuswap Ave, Chase, BC.
9x12 - $70 11x14 - $90 12x16 - $115
#208-345 Chief Alex Thomas Way Kamloops, BC V2H 1H1 P: 250.828.9833 E: info@cfdcofcifn.com
KWESELTKEN FARMER’S & ARTISAN MARKET & COMMUNITY FUTURES OF CENTRAL INTERIOR FIRST NATIONS About Kweseltken Farmer’s & Artisan Market
Kweseltken History and why it was developed.
Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations (CFDC of CIFN) mandate is to promote regional economic growth through business development services and training, supporting indigenous entrepreneurs and communities living on and offreserve, as well, in rural and urban settings within the Thompson Okanagan, Shuswap, Nicola Valley, Fraser Canyon and Lillooet areas. CFDC of CIFN has successfully launched the Kweseltken Farmer’s & Artisan Market (KFAM) last summer at the Tk’emlups te Secwepemc Powwow Arbor, which has proven to be an idyllic location. Kweseltken (meaning “relatives”). The KFAM supports both indigenous and non-indigenous entrepreneurs in all areas of farming, culture, artisanal, crafting, informational and entertainment. This initiative helped promote both the agricultural and tourism markets in the Thompson Okanagan area.
Covid 19 had a negative impact not only to the economy of British Columbia, but also for First Nation and Indigenous peoples. CFDC of CIFN recognized the need to provide a safe environment for our people to sell their crafts, produce and services, so the idea started. With support of our Board of Directors we developed the concept to implementation, and we are honored to be a part of the cultural livelihood practices within our region. KFAM had a humble start of only 7 vendors, and we grew to support 61 First Nations/indigenous vendors out of a total of 71 vendors by the end of the season. We look forward to seeing many of our vendors back this year and to an even more successful year starting June 27th - September 26th, 2021. For more information contact Monica Parker at monica@cfdcofcifn.com
Kweseltken Training With great success last year in supporting our entrepreneur’s we have expanded to offer training in partnership with UVIC to provide certification in AGRI-Tourism. We will utilize our experience and feedback to deliver the course and provide participants in small business training, tourism training and agriculture training as well. We will deliver using all the tools needed such as online courses and classroom setting. We will have all COVID safety measures in place for the safety of all the participants. For more information, please contact Tyrone Joseph at info@cfdcofcifn.com
Kweseltken Kitchen Trailer CFDCofCIFN, in partnership with the Kamloops Food Policy Council purchased a food processing trailer where we can teach basic forms of preservation and food safe processing. The trailer will be fully equipped with a stove, safety equipment, sinks, smokers, dehydrator, canners and packaging. The training provided will compliment the overall Kweseltken Project and we at CFDCofCIFN are proud to support this important area of food security, small business training as well as the value-added tourism and agriculture components. We will be booking for first nation communities, schools and organizations within the region and look forward to working with your leaders, elders and youth in providing this opportunity.
#208-345 Chief Alex Thomas Way Kamloops, BC V2H 1H1 P: 250.828.9833 E: info@cfdcofcifn.com
September 10, 2021
Pg. 18
Issue. 04
IMPORTANT LINKS, EVENTS AND RESOURCES MIKWAM MAKWA IKWE (ICE BEAR WOMAN): A NATIONAL NEEDS ANALYSIS ON INDIGENOUS WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURSHIP “Indigenous women bring new and innovative products, services, and approaches to the economic community but often face unique barriers in starting and growing their businesses, such as in accessing financing and mentorship. This report builds a comprehensive description of the barriers and challenges that Indigenous women face as they develop their enterprises. BUSINESS RECOVERY FORUM: REBUILDING OUR ECONOMY TOGETHER! Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business is putting on this virtual event for members, businesses, and entrepreneurs on strengthening the Indigenous economy for the prosperity of all Canadians - Wednesday September 22, 2021. Learn from expert panelists in discussions on how to rebuild the economy through Leadership Actions, Employment, Business Development, and Community Relationships. Register in the link. FUTURPRENEUR CANADA Futurpreneur Canada supports Indigenous entrepreneurs aged 18-39 with launching or buying their own business. They have up to $60,000 in financing, provide an expert mentor for up to two years, and access to resources. Futurpreneur Canada can help young entrepreneurs bring their business plan to life. Access stories about how young Indigenous entrepreneurs have successfully launched their own businesses, a library of entrepreneurship resources, and business plan creation resources. TOURISM RELIEF FUND IN WESTERN CANADA The Tourism Relief Fund, administered by Canada’s regional development agencies and Innovation Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), supports tourism businesses and organizations adapt their operations to meet public health requirements while investing in products and services to facilitate their future growth. The Tourism Relief Fund will issue $500 million over two years (ending March 31, 2023), including $50 million specifically dedicated to Indigenous tourism initiatives. INDIGENOMICS MIXER EVENT - POSTPONED TILL MAY 30-31, 2022 This event will focus on the path towards Indigenous economic freedom, and will be a series of engaging roundtable sessions that highlight, generate and build business pathways and collaborative responses to the emerging Indigenous economy. CANADA DIGITAL ADOPTION PROGRAM: GROW YOUR BUSINESS ONLINE The Canada Digital Adoption Program is part of the Government of Canada’s $4 billion investment to help Canadian businesses adopt new technologies. Applications are now open for the first stream, which will award funding to not-for-profit organizations to support small businesses as they adopt digital technologies such as digital storefronts and e-commerce platforms, and expand their digital presence. STARTUP GLOBAL Indigenous Entrepreneurs can join Startup Global to connect you with tools, advisory support, and funding. POW WOW PITCH COMMUNITY Join the access on-demand and live learning sessions, and get free tools, resources and opportunities to reach more customers
The Secwepemc L.I.F.E. Newsletter is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher.
LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR FOUNDATION
L.I.F.E. STORY PITCH EVENT
03.10.22 6 P.M. - 9 P.M.
E V A S THE E T A D
MORE INFO COMING SOON
LEADING INDIGENOUS FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS FOUNDATION
SECOND ANNUAL FUNDRAISING GOLF TOURNAMENT
E V SATHE 06.17.22 E T DA TALKING ROCK GOLF COURSE & QUAAOUT LODGE
LETS TALK MONEY CONFERENCE August 19-21, 2022
E V SATHE E T DA
MORE INFO COMING SOON
SECWEPEMC LAKES INDIGENOUS ENTREPRENEURSHIP: A BIT OF HISTORY Secwepemc peoples have an extensive history of entrepreneurship in the Shuswap. This is evident in our oral history and knowledge of our people. An example was the thriving salmon trade; our people were savvy business owners when it came to bartering our natural resources. Resources were traded for other items to primarily support family and community survival. Indigenomics, as noted in Carol Anne Hilton’s book, lays out the beliefs and values of the emerging Indigenous economy, stating ‘it is an economy built around relationships, multigenerational stewardship of resources, and care for all.’ There are many stories of Indigenous entrepreneurship within the Secwepemc Lakes region, if you ask our elders they can share some of the history! Our people were highly skilled and resourceful in many areas and hired for their skills such as logging, hunting, guides, trackers, basket making, etc. Colonization affected this way of life, as noted by Dr. Janice Billy who shared that “our Secwepemc People were excellent farmers and it became outlawed to purchase from our People.” To honor and recognize these traditional cultural values, this handbook was created to support the existing and emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs. The list of services is the beginning of identifying resources in BC to support Indigenous entrepreneurs in all aspects of business, from thought/idea stage to growth.
Julie John, Indigenous Entrepreneur Coordinator Secwepemc Lakes Training and Employment Initiative/Secwepemc Entrepreneur Hub 632 Shuswap Avenue, Chase, BC | 250-679-1156
In the spirit of Knucwetwecw we honor the value of helping one another. Remember it is best to be informed and know every aspect of your business. If you don’t know, reach out and ask for help! There are many entrepreneurs who would love to share their experience with you. Some support services are now available at the Indigenous Entrepreneur Hub located at 632 Shuswap Ave., Chase, BC and can be contacted at 250-679-1156. Knowledge and culture are key and add to our strength as Indigenous entrepreneurs!
Doing Business on Reserve?
Have Employees?
Collecting Taxes?
Learn more about doing business on reserve by contacting the local band office. Seek advice from Indigenous Financial Institutions or a local Accountant who is knowledgeable with on/off reserve business/taxes.
Learn about B.C.’s workplace safety standards by contacting WorkSafeBC’s small business liaison at 1-855-214-5438 or www.WorkBC.ca/employers
Learn more about tax collection and remittance by contacting the BC Ministry of Finance at 1-877-388-4440 and Canada Revenue Agency at 1-800-959-5525 or www.cra-arc.gc.ca/aboriginalpeoples/
SECWEPEMC LAKES & TRAINING EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVE INDIGENOUS BUSINESS RESOURCE LIST Financing and Loans
Skills Training
Advisory Services
Mentorship Support
Aboriginal Business Advisory Centres
British Columbia Assembly of
Aboriginal Business & Community Development Centre (ABCD)
BCAFN is a Provincial Territorial Organization representing and advocating for the 203 First Nations in British Columbia. Phone:1-250-962-1603 www.bcafn.ca
Get advice on Indigenous business planning in the Kootenay, Northeast & Cariboo Regions. Phone:1-800-880-1022 www.gov.bc.ca/aboriginalbusinessadvisorycentres
A non-profit organization that is involved in supporting business, community & economic development. Located in Prince George, BC. Phone:1-250-562-6325 www.abdc.bc.ca
Aboriginal Business & Entrepreneurship Development
Provides a range of services and supports to promote the growth of a strong Indigenous business sector in Canada. Phone:1-604-666-7891 www.inacservices.com/aboriginal-business-and-entrepreneurshipdevelopment
Aboriginal Business Entrepreneurship & Skills Training Program
Skills training, advisory and mentorship services. Located in Nelson, BC. Phone:1-250-352-3878 www.aboriginalbest.com
Aboriginal Business Investment Council
Access to a variety of resources to help start and grown your business, including skills training and success stories. www.bcibic.ca
Aboriginal Financial Institutions
Information and advice on business planning, financing and other economic development opportunities throughout BC. Phone:1-844-827-0327 www.nacca.ca/aboriginal-financial-institutions
All Nations Trust Company (ANTCO)
An Aboriginal owned Trust company, located in Kamloops, BC, that provides financial and advisory services to Aboriginal entrepreneurs. Phone:1-778-471-4110; Toll Free: 1-800-663-2959 www.antco.ca
BC Aboriginal Economic Development
Programs, training & funding for Indigenous businesses. www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/indigenouspeople/economic-development
First Nations (BCAFN)
Burns Lake Native Development Corporation BLNDC empowers First Nations to realize their economic aspirations within their traditional territories. Phone:1-250-692-3188 www.blndc.ca Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Access business financing and advice through BDC's Indigenous Bank Department. www.bdc.ca/en Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business Tools and financing for Indigenous businesses. www.ccab.com/tfab/ Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers Cando is a federally registered, non-profit society that is Indigenous controlled, community based, and membership driven. Cando focuses on education and professional development for Economic Development Officers working in Indigenous communities or organizations. Phone:1-780-990-0303 www.edo.ca Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations (CFDC of CIFN) Promotes and provides community economic development support services to Indigenous people within the Central Interior of British Columbia. Phone:1-250-828-9833 www.cfdcofcifn.com First Citizens Fund Business Loan Program Access business loans for Indigenous-owened enterprises. www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/indigenouspeople/first-citizens-fund Haida Gwaii Community Futures Building foundations on the Island through business and community economic development. Phone:1-250-626-5594 www.haidagwaiifutures.ca
SECWEPEMC LAKES & TRAINING EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVE INDIGENOUS BUSINESS RESOURCE LIST Financing and Loans
Skills Training
Hello I Am An Entrepreneur
This program encompasses a series of 12 workshops & includes unlimited mentoring, guest speakers, resource materials and video library. Phone:1-250-619-3450 www.helloiamanentrepreneur.com
Indigenous Community for Leadership and Development
ICLD works with Indigenous communities to develop and deliver personalized training to facilitate learning & skill growth that supports economic development. Phone:1-604-899-2400 www.icldgroup.com
Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training
Learn about trades opportunities for Indigenous peoples. Read success stories and receive guidance from the Industry Training Authority Apprenticeship Advisors. Phone:1-866-660-6011 www.itabc.ca/indigenous-peoples-trades/overview
Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ISETS)
ISETS links training needs to labour market demands, providing training, skills upgrading and job search assistance. www.canada.ca/en/employment-socialdevelopment/programs/indigenous-skills-employmenttraining.html
Indigenous Tourism Association of BC
Resources for Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities in BC who are operating or looking to start a tourism business. Phone:1-604-921-1070 www.indigenousbc.com
Junior Achievement BC
Entrepreneurship training and support for Indigenous youth throughout the Indigenous Business Circles program. Phone:1-604-688-3887 www.jabc.ca
Metis Financial Corporation of BC (MFCBC)
Metis owned lending institution created to finance the start-up, acquisition and/or expansion of viable Metis owned and operated small businesses based in British Columbia. Phone:1-833-399-3926 www.mfcbc.ca
Metis Nation BC Economic Development Portal
Economic development information and business registry for Metis businesses and entrepreneurs. Phone:1-778-349-7216 www.ecdev.mnbc.ca
Advisory Services
Mentorship Support
Native Fishing Association
NFA was developed to support struggling fishers. Not for profit financial lending institution. Phone:1-604-913-2997 www.shoal.ca
New Relationship Trust
Access business financing and economic development information for Indigenous enterprises in BC. Phone:1-604-925-3338 www.newrelationshiptrust.ca
Nuu-Chah-Nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC)
NEDC strives to assist Aboriginal’s make their dreams come true and build a better future for business! NEDC provides financing and business support to Aboriginals on Vancouver Island Phone:1-866-444-6332 www.nedc.info
Peace Hills Trust
Provides banking services for Indigenous entrepreneurs. Phone:1-250-769-9081 www.peacehills.com/business
Sto:lo Community Futures Corporation
Offers business loans, business support, training & workshops. Also aftercare to improve community business and economic development within the Sto:lo traditional territory Phone:1-604-858-0009 www.stolocf.ca
Tribal Resources Investment Corporation (TRICORP)
Administers a revolving loan fund which is operated to be selfsupporting. The mandate is to provide financing for business activities which increase the number of permanent jobs. Phone:1-250-624-3535 www.tricorp.ca/
Tale’awtxw Aboriginal Capital Corporation
Tale’awtxw has supported the success of over a thousand Aboriginal owned businesses operating withing their service area. www.tacc.ca