Executive Summary

The Rural Secretariat held the second in its Learning Series seminars in Edmonton on January 14th, 2005. The theme of the seminar was "Aboriginal Participation in the Rural Economy". Speakers address topics around the theme to provide a greater understanding of the potential for development involving Aboriginal communities.

Several ideas emerged repeatedly throughout the day. Several speakers told us that it is difficult to categorize First Nations, either in terms of their size, language, level of development, or the resources available to them. Each is unique and this must be recognized. There are many different levels of skill within each community as well.

Tony Shirt pointed to the three main determinants of economic development for First Nations: capacity, resources and location. Aldene Meis Mason suggested that when First Nations communities are looking for a starting point for development they need to assess what they can draw upon and develop to advantage. Each community can use the resources available to it as a basis for economic development whether it is oil and gas, lumber or some other resource. The value extracted from these resources must then go back to the people. An example of this is the business strategy used by Goodfish Lake Development Corporation. Chief Roderick Alexis of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation mentioned that when traditional interests and territories are involved in a development project, environmental concerns and sustainability must be factored in.

Strong leadership is an issue for First Nations communities. As Ms. Meis Mason pointed out, stable leadership over a long term is needed to develop strategic visions and goals. The Indian Act however requires elections every two years, making it difficult to achieve stable leadership.

We also heard a lot about relationships and partnerships. Chief Alexis told us that sitting down with neighboring communities and potential partners is the first step towards building understanding and developing relationships. Aldene Meis Mason pointed to partnerships as being critical to accessing new markets, and achieving success in global markets. We were told that Aboriginal people face great difficulties in getting equity. Since most Aboriginal people do not own their own homes or land they are often denied loans. This is a major stumbling block for those who want to start their own businesses.

The speakers mentioned the need to provide employment for Aboriginal people. The demographic projections show a huge influx of your Aboriginals into the work force in coming years. Audrey Ahenakew pointed out that Canada would need to provide serveral hundred thousand new jobs just to maintain current levels of employment. Aboriginal and Metis women are at the leading edge in terms of preparing themselves for the future. Not only are Aboriginal women taking advantageof opportunities to further their education, they are also entrepreneurial. George Vass told us that 65 to 79% of his clients are Metis women.

In addition to the many problems which were discussed during the day, speakers also reminded us that many good things have already happened in the area of Aboriginal participation in the rural economy and we should recognize the achievements of Aboriginal entrepreneurs and communities.

Date Modified: 2005-06-14

Important Notices

[ Français | Contact Us | Help | Search | Canada Site ] [ Home | News Releases | Key Rural Initiatives | Site Map | Publications ]