Economic Development
The provincial government is committed to improving the participation of Indigenous people and communities’ in the economy. Government must work in partnership with Indigenous people to identify shared goals, strategic outcomes and progress.
The Province’s policy approach to working in partnership with Indigenous people includes efforts to support and increase Indigenous management and control over programs and services.
Business Support
The Province supports Indigenous entrepreneurs through programs, training and funding that help businesses to thrive and compete in B.C.’s economic climate. Strong Indigenous businesses contribute to a strong B.C. economy.
- Indigenous Small Business Resources Handout - A one-stop reference for Indigenous entrepreneurs on how to access the range of services and supports available to Indigenous small-business owners.
- Indigenous Business Advisory Centres - Business advisory centres in Cranbrook, Fort St. John and Prince George help Indigenous entrepreneurs with business startup or expansion, partnerships, and planning.
- First Citizens Fund Business Loan Program - Business loans are available to Indigenous entrepreneurs in British Columbia.
- B.C. Indigenous Business Awards - B.C. Aboriginal Business Awards is an annual awards program that recognizes outstanding Indigenous business accomplishments.
- Small Business Task Force Recommendations - Priority 6 starts on page 6 and speaks to support for greater Indigenous participation in B.C.’s economy.
- General business support
The B.C. government also supports the Indigenous Business and Investment Council through the BC Jobs Plan. The Indigenous Business and Investment Council focuses on developing strategies to:
- Increase indigenous participation in the economy
- Promote economic certainty in the province by encouraging economic growth in Indigenous communities
Building Capacity
- First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund
The First Nations Clean Energy Business Fund (FNCEBF) promotes increased Indigenous community participation in the clean energy sector within their asserted traditional territories and treaty areas. - Funding Opportunities for Clean Energy Projects
This document provides an overview of funding opportunities for energy efficiency and clean energy projects led by Local Governments and First Nations in British Columbia.. - New Relationship Trust
The New Relationship Trust is an independent non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening First Nations in B.C. through capacity building.
