Indigenous businesses benefit local community development and significantly contribute to the country’s economy.
The Growing Impact of Indigenous Businesses
Across Canada, Indigenous businesses are thriving. They’re generating jobs, creating wealth, and contributing to economic growth. In Atlantic Canada alone, Indigenous businesses and communities added $6.2 billion to the economy in 2021, representing 4.5% of the region’s total economic output. This growth shows the role Indigenous businesses play in local and regional economies.
More Than Numbers
The success of Indigenous businesses goes beyond economic statistics. Indigenous businesses bring several benefits to their communities and the broader Canadian landscape, including:
Job Creation: Employing Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
Community Support: Building stronger communities by reinvesting in local infrastructure, services, and initiatives.
Cultural Preservation: Promoting and preserving Indigenous traditions, knowledge, and values through operations, services, and products.
Innovation: Introducing new ideas and approaches to various industries, from natural resources to technology.
For the Gitga’at Nation, the impact of Indigenous business is quite significant. Efforts to build strong, sustainable businesses are part of a larger movement, but they also make a big difference right in Hartley Bay. Successful local businesses help enable the Gitga’at Nation to take control of its economic future.
Benefits Beyond Local Communities
While Indigenous businesses have a big impact locally, their influence reaches even further. They're becoming a key part of Canada's national economy. The Indigenous economy in Canada is growing fast; it's expected to reach $100 billion in the next few years.
Are You an Indigenous Business Owner?
More organizations and governments are now recognizing the importance of supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship. Programs that provide funding, mentorship, and business development resources are helping Indigenous businesses thrive. Find some helpful training resources on the GDC website.
Looking to the Future
The Gitga’at Development Corporation (GDC) is committed to contributing to this momentum. As we grow our businesses and forge new partnerships, we’re proud to be part of a larger narrative of success. Indigenous entrepreneurs are proving they can excel in diverse industries while staying rooted in their cultural values.
Growing the Economy, One Indigenous Business at a Time
Indigenous businesses are vital to the country. They’re shaping industries, preserving culture, and proving that sustainable growth is possible when rooted in tradition and innovation.
As the GDC continues our work, we're proud to be part of this growing segment of Canada's economy.
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