Indigenous Businesses Navigating Procurement

There are complexities around Indigenous businesses and procurement. 

In this episode of Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation, moderator Dave Trafford and guests  Tabatha Bull, CEO of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, Tanya Pasha, President and CEO of Air Creebec, and Jacob Taylor, PHD, Executive Director of the National Indigenous Economic Prosperity Council,  delve into those complexities.  Their discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous owned businesses as they navigate government contracts, with a focus on the 5% Indigenous procurement target.  As well, they talk about the biases Indigenous businesses face, the importance of certification and the growing need for inclusivity and clear communication in the procurement process.  

Key Takeaways:

1. There is a need for policies that build capacity within Indigenous businesses and communities without creating additional barriers.  That ensures that they have the skills and support to thrive in government procurement systems.  
2. Indigenous businesses often face biases, with some organizations not being perceived as “top tier”.  Overcoming these misconceptions requires strong partnerships and consistent performance.  
3. Government and corporate procurement:  while the 5% procurement target for Indigenous businesses is a step forward, government processes still lag behind the private sector, requiring future improvements and better measurement.  

For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca