Native Economic Development Advisory Board
 Established in 1988, the Native Economic Development Advisory Board supports sustainable Aboriginal economic development throughout British Columbia.
The Board provides policy, program and service advice to the Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. It advises government on appropriate strategies to support Aboriginal economic development, and works in partnership with government to ensure that Aboriginal economic development is achieved in an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
The board also works with the provincial government to protect the purpose and integrity of the First Citizens Fund *, a special account established to enhance economic development, social and cultural opportunities for Aboriginal people in B.C. The board provides advice on planning, development and delivery of First Citizens Fund programs and services. It has an annual budget of approximately $4 million.
The Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation appoints eight Aboriginal people to the Board on a regional basis for a maximum of three two-year terms.
Aboriginal communities and organizations within regions are notified of positions and members are appointed based on their experience in business, community economic development, employment and training.
Board members represent the interests and socio-economic development needs of Aboriginal people in British Columbia as a whole, and are not representatives of any interest group or organization.
Goals of the Native Economic Development Advisory Board:
- promote Aboriginal business development throughout the province
- increase training and skills upgrading opportunities for B.C.'s Aboriginal populations
- enhance employment opportunities for B.C.'s Aboriginal population
- promote the capacity development of Aboriginal people throughout B.C.
- promote the socio-economic self-reliance of Aboriginal people in B.C.
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Native Economic Development Advisory Board Members
Board member biographies are posted on the Provincial Government's Board Resourcing and Development Office website. Read biographies by clicking on the member's name.
* The First Citizens Fund was established in 1969. In 1988, the Native Economic Development Advisory Board replaced the First Citizens Fund Advisory Committee following a change in legislation allowing for loans for business and economic development.
For more information contact:
John Harper
Director, Economic Initiatives
Intergovernmental and Community Relations Branch
Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation
PO Box 9100 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, BC V8W 9B1
Phone: 250 387-2536
Fax: 250 356-9467 |
First Citizens Fund 
