Story shared by Patti Derbyshire
What are we doing today, for a better tomorrow?
At Rise, we’re part of a movement, an intergenerational organization of peers using our business as a force for good with other organizations in corporate Canada doing the same!
We not only learn ourselves but also share with others, for example, insights from the First Nations Major Projects Coalition gathering earlier this month, which provides clear navigation for the future of economic development in Canada and expectations for responding to Call-to-Action #92.
Key Takeaways from the First Nations Major Projects Coalition Gathering
The resounding message – that First Nations Peoples are not only integral but should be the economic drivers of prosperity. Chief Claire Sault’s powerful opening statement set the tone: “First Nations Peoples should be some of the wealthiest. We should be the lenders, not the borrowers.” This sentiment resonated throughout the gathering, highlighting a fundamental shift in perspective and a vision for true economic reconciliation. It also builds upon the legacy and reverence held by community members for the late Niilo Edwards, ICD.D, who anchored FNMPC, serving as its CEO since 2017, and a true innovator in establishing programs like the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program to help First Nations access capital.
Sovereignty, Self-Governance, and Prosperity: The Bedrock of Success
Ontario Regional Chief Abraham emphasized that “Every community has its own jurisdiction and sovereignty. Each project will be distinct. Every community wants opportunity, peace, and prosperity.” Self-determination and autonomy are crucial. As Dr. Joseph Kalt of the Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development illustrated, intentional dependency has demonstrably failed.
Indigenous Nation economies are growing three times faster in communities with strong self-governance, with land claims, and for those where Treaty and inherent rights are being exercised. The keys to this success, according to Dr. Kalt, are clear:
- Fight for sovereignty and self-governance. Just do it.
- Govern well: This includes establishing a rule of law, governing for the benefit of everyone, and critically, separating business from politics. Successful communities often set up separate business entities with robust corporate governance.
- Strong Leadership: Investment in Indigenous leadership development, as exemplified by the endowed Indigenous Chair at the Harvard Kennedy Centre, is vital.
Consent and Collective Economic Models
Consent, as underscored by Chief Charlene Gayle of FNMPC/Fort Nelson First Nation, is foundational. She also stressed that “Meaningful Indigenous Participation and Leadership is the smartest business decision you can make.” Her advice: “Never give up. Always follow up. Use lawyers sparingly.”
Finally, the Alaska Native Corporations (ANCs) provide a compelling blueprint for success and prosperity. Established through the Alaska Statehood Act and a landmark land claims settlement, ANCs collectively generate $11 billion annually and employ over 17,000 people. With 92% of the land owned by ANCs, their influence spans IT, commercial industry, and government contracting. Hon. Shauna Higna (Kodiak ANCSA) and Andrea Gusty of Kuskokwim Village Corporation shared how these corporations prioritize long-term community benefits, environmental stewardship, and a meaningful say in project development, often exceeding state and federal standards. Their success demonstrates how “we build the table, we don’t just sit at it.” The 7(i) initiative by the Arctic Slope Corporation ensures 70% of net resource development income is shared with other ANCs and village corporations first, providing a more equitable distribution of benefits from resource development across all Alaska Native communities, unity, and a commitment to collective well-being.
At Rise, we see firsthand how strong Indigenous self-governance, coupled with meaningful participation and ownership in projects, creates not just financial returns but also sustainable, community-driven prosperity. Our work is dedicated to bridging the understanding gaps between Indigenous Nations and corporate partners, championing the principle that operationalizing consent and investing in Indigenous capacity are not just ethical imperatives, but the smartest business decisions for long-term success and reconciliation.