Agenda

Registration & Coffee Connection Networking

Welcome Blessing: Elder Joe Michael

Opening Entertainment

Host Welcome: Victoria Labillois

CCAB President & CEO: Tabatha Bull

Welcome: Forum Lead Sponsor – Mike Bagnall, CIBC

Mainstage Panel: Economic Development: Voices of Indigenous Community Leaders.

Hear from Chiefs and community leaders as they share their experiences and strategies for achieving economic prosperity. Gain valuable insights and learnings as they discuss their community’s approach to potential new projects, partnerships, training, and educational opportunities. Be inspired by their success stories and plans for future economic development opportunities and growth.

Speakers:

John G. Paul – Moderator
Chief Bob Gloade
James Stevens
Grand Chief Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer
Tribal Chief Richard Ben
Tina Rasmussen

Lunch

Breakout Sessions

Indigenous Inclusion and Workplace Realities.
Indigenous peoples comprise a significant portion of the population in various East Coast regions. Fostering inclusion of these communities in supplier and workforce networks is smart business. However, many companies face challenges in accessing skilled Indigenous tradespeople and talent, which has now become a greater obstacle than accessing capital. This interactive session asks questions and presents solutions on how to attract and retain Indigenous prospects to build capacity.

Speakers:

Houston Barnaby – Moderator
Susan Ross
Lorin Robar
Danielle Hartley
Fiona Kirkpatrick Parsons

The Tech Advantage.
Incorporating an Indigenous perspective in technology infrastructure ensures inclusivity and can unlock business value and innovation to create the right workplace environment. Atlantic Canada is a growing tech hub offering companies and individuals an abundance of opportunities, education, training programs, and the skills needed for capacity building and success. The demand for core technical and professional skills is high. Find out more about this fast-growing sector and how to enhance your company’s competitive edge and empower your business in new ways.

Speakers:

Stanley Barnaby – Moderator
Keith McIntosh
Ian Daly
Sylvie Ouellette
Chris Googoo

Empowering Indigenous Peoples to Achieve Economic and Social Prosperity.
Strengthening the financial capacity of Indigenous communities in Atlantic Canada involves providing them with the autonomy to define, generate and distribute wealth according to their own terms. Equitable access to economic opportunities can lead to significant employment growth and income for First Nations, Inuit and Metis individuals. Hear Indigenous entrepreneurial success stories that contribute to a prosperous community and gain insight into navigating the procurement and financial systems for business growth.

Speakers:

Phil Ducharme – Moderator
Hilda Letemplier
Florence Mazerolle
Robert Auclair
Paul Langdon

Progressive Aboriginal Relations (PAR) Case Studies of Success, Challenges, and Benefits
Since its introduction in 2001, Progressive Aboriginal Relations (PAR) remains the leading corporate social responsibility program focusing on Indigenous relations. Learn about the PAR certification process and explore case studies of companies that have participated in the program. Discover how the PAR certification has impacted their business growth and gain insights into the challenges and benefits of implementing the program. Questions and audience participation encouraged.

Speakers:

Luanne/Brenda – Moderator
Bob Gosse
Michelle Francis Denny
Erin Hickey
Corey Mattie

Networking Break with Coffee & Dessert

MAINSTAGE: Atlantic Canada’s Infrastructure: Highlighting Indigenous partnerships and opportunities.
Partnerships build better infrastructure, create opportunities for economic growth, and builds stronger, more resilient communities. Welcoming community partnerships from the energy and construction sectors, this session engages and connects people through the sharing of stories and strategies on how to help businesses invest in relationships that improve quality of life.

Speakers:

Clint Davis – Moderator
Lynn Hammond
Rose Paul
Rene Jeddore
Richard MacLellan

Forum Ends

Cocktail Reception

Opening Entertainment: Dee Dee Austin 

Host welcome: Jeff Ward

Welcome Blessing: Elder Joe Michael

Lead Dinner sponsor welcome: Bird Construction

Dinner

Entertainment: Comedian Clifton Cremo

CEO remarks: Tabatha Bull

AEDC Award presentation by Rio Tinto to Meadow Lake Tribal Council Industrial Investments

Closing remarks