Indigenous SME Business Magazine

As we proudly present the September 2024 edition of Indigenous SME Small Business Magazine, we are reminded of the incredible resilience, innovation, and cultural richness that Indigenous businesses bring to Canada’s economic landscape. This issue is dedicated to the theme of "Skillset and Wellness," focusing on the holistic approach Indigenous entrepreneurs are taking to achieve success. In this edition, we dive deep into stories of triumph and transformation. From Alejandro Mayoral Banos, PhD's advocacy for Indigenous digital sovereignty to the entrepreneurial spirit of Janice Larocque at Spirit Omega Inc., featured as Business Woman of the Month, we are honored to share the journeys of those who blend tradition with modern business practices. Through their leadership, they are breaking barriers and setting the stage for future generations of Indigenous entrepreneurs. Discover the unique flavours of Tea Horse Indigenous teas and be a part of how Denise and Marc are honouring tradition, nature and innovation by reading “Tea Horse : A Celebration of Indigenous Wisdom & Innovation”. We are also excited to feature the Top 40 over 40 Indigenous Awards 2024, celebrating the outstanding achievements of seasoned Indigenous business leaders whose work inspires us all. These individuals have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also made a significant impact on their communities and the broader Canadian business landscape. Our magazine remains committed to supporting Indigenous businesses by providing a platform to share their stories, successes, and challenges. We hope that each page of this issue offers valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiration for those navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. Together, we can continue building a vibrant, inclusive economy where Indigenous businesses thrive. We'd like to extend our gratitude to UPS for their support. Read the complete issue here: https://lnkd.in/evAJpjqK

CCIB’s 2025 BUSINESS AWARD NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN for our Lifetime Achievement and Young Indigenous Entrepreneur Awards. Do you know an outstanding Indigenous leader who has made meaningful contributions to the Indigenous economy and community? Nominate them for the Indigenous Business Lifetime Achievement Award. Is there an Indigenous entrepreneur under 35 who is driving the Indigenous economy forward? Recognize their impact and nominate them for the Young Indigenous Entrepreneur Award. Individuals can also self-nominate, and this award comes with a $10,000 cash prize to benefit your business. Visit the link in comments to nominate an outstanding changemaker today!

Transforming The Post – Secondary Experience for Indigenous Students in Canada First Nations University of Canada and Co-operators announce the funding of a new Career Centre to provide Indigenous students with professional development resources First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) is partnering with Co-operators – through its philanthropic arm, Co-operators Community Funds – to transform the Indigenous student experience. Today, FNUniv announced that it is opening a Career Centre and Work-Integrated Learning Initiative that will connect Indigenous students with essential career development tools, education, and programming in a way that is aligned with their teachings and values. The Centre has the unique advantage of being designed, used, and managed by Indigenous students and staff, creating an authentic, tangible way to bridge the gap between Indigenous students, graduates and meaningful job opportunities. Read more at https://lnkd.in/g-f9siti Subscribe to the Indigenous SME Small Business Magazine by visiting https://indigenous-sme.ca/ Jacqueline Ottmann, Kristin Francis

Join the PAIR team on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. EST to learn more about CCIB's Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR) program with guest speaker, Ferris Z. from GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy. The program, which aims to integrate economic reconciliation through business, is ideal for any Indigenous or non-Indigenous organization looking to partner or make positive change with an Indigenous organization or community in Canada. Register today! https://bit.ly/3Y5gUBu

Discover the story of Indigenous Wellness Canada (IWC), founded by Krystel Mckinnon. With a holistic approach that blends traditional therapies and modern techniques like EFT, Red Light Therapy, and Compassionate Inquiry, IWC empowers individuals on their journey of self-discovery and healing. Learn how Krystel’s personal quest for wellness has transformed into a mission to promote mind, body, and spirit harmony. Read full article: https://lnkd.in/gCegaD76 #IndigenousWellness #HolisticHealing #WellnessJourney #EmotionalFreedomTechnique #TraditionalMedicine #IndigenousBusiness

We’re excited to share that our latest Indigenous-SME Small Business Podcast episode has featured two extraordinary leaders – Jennifer Ménard-Shand, Founder & CEO of Staff Shop Inc., and Alison "Ali" Hernández, Chief Operating Officer. In this episode, hosted by (Maheen Bari), Jennifer and Ali take us through their inspiring journey of building a purpose-driven, Indigenous and women-owned staffing and consulting firm. As we’ve covered a lot of ground, from the importance of values-aligned partnerships to the impact of the Core Values Index (CVI™) on business success, the key takeaway from today’s discussion is that staying true to your values and building strong, purposeful partnerships are essential for long-term success. Watch the full episode now at https://lnkd.in/gxA3U5iB Subscribe to the Indigenous-SME Business Magazine at www.indigenous-sme.ca for more inspiring content! A big thank you to our sponsor UPS for their continued support! #IndigenousSME #WomenInBusiness #Podcast #BusinessLeadership

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we stand united with Indigenous communities in honouring the survivors of residential schools and remembering those who never returned home. Today, we amplify the message that "Every Child Matters" and reaffirm our commitment to healing, learning, and supporting Indigenous voices. Let’s continue the journey towards reconciliation and ensure that every story is heard and respected. #EveryChildMatters #TruthAndReconciliation #IndigenousVoices #OrangeShirtDay

Watch the September - October 2024 Edition of Indigenous-SME Small Business Magazine! In this edition, we’re proud to showcase the resilience, innovation, and cultural richness that Indigenous businesses bring to Canada's economic landscape. With a focus on Skillset and Wellness, we explore how Indigenous entrepreneurs are fostering a balanced approach to success through professional growth and holistic well-being. From Alejandro Mayoral Banos' advocacy for Indigenous digital sovereignty to the entrepreneurial spirit of Janice Larocque, our Business Woman of the Month at Spirit Omega Inc., this issue is filled with stories of triumph and transformation. Plus, don’t miss our feature on Tea Horse Indigenous teas and the Top 40 over 40 Indigenous Awards 2024, celebrating seasoned business leaders making a lasting impact. Dive into the incredible journeys of Indigenous entrepreneurs and be inspired by their leadership, innovation, and cultural empowerment. Check out the full issue and join us in celebrating Indigenous excellence in business! Subscribe to Indigenous-SME Small Business Magazine here: https://lnkd.in/gBMWGCHX #IndigenousBusiness #Entrepreneurship #CulturalEmpowerment #SkillsetAndWellness #IndigenousSME #BusinessInnovation #Top40Over40 #SupportIndigenousBusiness Tea Horse Janice Larocque Spirit Omega (Formerly Spirit Staffing & Consulting) Jason Rasevych Anishnawbe Business Professional Association (Northern Ontario) Alejandro Mayoral Banos, PhD, Indigenous Friends Association Bob Joseph Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. Rhode Thomas  The Centre for Indigenous Innovation and Technology Trevor Cootes Cootes (Hiiyiqhsath) Consulting Corp Wanda Brascoupe Nicole McDonald Indigenous Philanthropy Advisors

CIBC receives PAIR Silver certification from the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business. CIBC today announced it has been awarded Silver certification in the Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR) program from the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB). PAIR's multi-year certification process recognizes organizations committed to establishing strong and ongoing working relationships that create wealth for Indigenous businesses and communities. The Silver certification reflects CIBC's long-standing dedication to economic reconciliation. Read more at https://lnkd.in/gWceSqKK Subscribe to the Indigenous SME Small Business Magazine by visiting https://lnkd.in/gBMWGCHX Sandy Sharman

Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) announces recipients for the Young Indigenous Business Grant Mya Beaudry is honouring matriarchs and her Indigenous culture one “scrunchie” at a time. She founded Kokum Scrunchies as an industrious and determined pre-teen, and Mya, along with 25 other recipients, recently received a Young Indigenous Business Grant (YIBG) from Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB). The design for each scrunchie comes from Indigenous women in Mya’s life who have inspired her, and she now sells the hair accessories across the country online, in retail outlets and through vending machines in shopping centres. “This is a wonderful opportunity for youth businesses,” she says. “I will be using this grant towards opening up another vending machine, which will allow me to continue to expand my business.” Canadian Council for Indigenous Business recently announced the 25 recipients of a grant during a live online event. This new initiative, funded by Loblaw Companies Limited through community investment grants, is also supported by contributions from Apex Distribution Inc., CIBC, and EY. The program aims to empower young Indigenous entrepreneurs across Canada. Tabatha Bull Alain Brandon Read more at https://lnkd.in/gTYpS8GU Subscribe to the Indigenous SME Business Magazine by visiting  https://lnkd.in/gBMWGCHX