East Coast Business Forum & Awards Dinner

CCIB’s Entrepreneur team is hosting a Tools for Indigenous Business (TIB) Networking event from  4 – 7 pm at the Halifax Convention Centre. Panel Discussion: Empowering Indigenous Innovation.

As an entrepreneur, your network is an important source of support and opportunities for your business. TIB events provide Indigenous entrepreneurs the opportunity to grow their professional networks and profile through meeting CCIB members committed to enhancing Indigenous business

TIB Networking Events are free for CCIB members and guests. To register, click here: TFAB » Halifax Networking Event 2025 

Sponsored By: TD

East Coast Social at The Stubborn Goat.  Join us for a casual networking evening with forum attendees, CCIB board members, staff and speakers.  Tickets can be purchased with your event registration.

We invite you to visit and explore the Indigenous Marketplace, which will feature a diverse selection of Indigenous artisans and businesses, offering unique products and showcasing local craftsmanship.

Sponsored By Bird Construction

The Networking Lounge serves as a dedicated meeting space for attendees to connect, collaborate, and engage in meaningful discussions throughout the event.

Registration & Coffee Connection

Sponsored By GJ Cahill

Host Welcome: Victoria Labillois

Elder Blessing: Marilyn Francis

Opening Song: Jeff Ward

CEO Remarks: Tabatha Bull

Forum Lead Sponsor Welcome: National Bank

Mainstage Panel: Navigating Business in a Shifting Political Climate

Attendees will gain practical strategies to navigate political changes while maintaining resilience and fostering sustainable growth for Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses.

Moderator: Tabatha Bull

Panelists: Travis Boissoneau, Cam Holstrom, Katherine Koostachin, Marci Surkes 

Buffet Lunch

Kitchen Table Chat : The Newdock Acquisition 

This collaborative partnership of Qalipu First Nation, Membertou First Nation and Horizon Naval Engineering is focused on generating prosperity for generations to come. Hear how it all started and what the plans are for the future.

Moderator: Michelle Francis-Denny

Panelists: Chief Jenny Brake, Sean Leet, Richard Maclellan, Mike McIntyre

Breakout Sessions:

Atlantic Region’s US Trade Vulnerabilities

A presentation highlighting our region’s US trade exposure relative to production, major exports by product, and tariff impacts. Recent tariff changes, the risks for Indigenous businesses and what Atlantic region businesses can do to address those risks. The presentation will also touch on the Atlantic Economic Council’s research on behalf of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat.

Presenter: Fred Bergman

Procurement & Supply Chains presented by Sobeys
Certified Indigenous Businesses share their stories and offer recommendations on leveraging procurement opportunities in Atlantic Canada and beyond. Discover how Indigenous businesses are driving innovation and creating value that goes far beyond meeting contract requirements.

Moderator: Philip Ducharme

Speaker: Nadine Bernard, Jolene Johnson, Dylan Mclennan 

Trade & Export: Strategies for Expanding into New Global and Domestic Markets presented by Graybar Canada
Market expansion and diversification have risen again to become focuses in the wake of tariffs. As businesses seek growth beyond traditional markets, exploring global trade and interprovincial opportunities has never been more critical. Gain insights on best practices for export readiness, market entry strategies, and building resilient supply chains in an evolving economic landscape.

Moderators: Matthew Foss

Panelists: Jake Augustine, Paul Langdon, Jason Picard-Binet, Donna St. Louis

Networking Break with Coffee & Dessert

Mainstage Panel: Engaging the Next Generation: Indigenous Hiring and Retention Strategies
A panel discussion on attracting and supporting Indigenous youth in the workforce. Explore effective approaches to recruitment, training, mentorship, and retention. Gain insights to help organizations create meaningful opportunities and foster inclusive workplaces.

Moderator: Houston Barnaby

Panelists: Keenan Beavis, Kirt Deedam, Lisa Isaac, Justin Martin

Closing Remarks

Cocktail Reception

Host Welcome: Jeff Ward

Elder Blessing: Marilyn Francis

Entertainment: Alan Syliboy

CEO Remarks: Tabatha Bull

Young Entrepreneur Award Presentation sponsored by EY

Recipient: Keenan Beavis

Dinner

Entertainment

Business Lifetime Achievement Award Presentation sponsored by Scotiabank

Recipient: Michael J. Mcdonald, K.C.

Closing remarks