Shifting Economies

Schedule

• Day 1
• Day 2
• November 20, 2026
• 8:00amRegistration Opens & Breakfast8:00am - 8:45am

  Registration & Breakfast

• 8:45amWelcome & Opening Prayer8:45am - 9:00am

  Welcome & Opening Prayer

  Speakers

  Dr. Michelle CorfieldSaya Masso
• 9:00amOpening Keynote | Canadian & Regional Economic Outlook9:00am - 10:00am

  Opening Keynote: Canadian & Regional Economic Outlook

  Join Shelly Kaushik, Economist with BMO Economics, for an overview of the Canadian and regional economic outlook. This keynote will explore current economic trends, emerging challenges, and opportunities shaping the business landscape, providing valuable context for discussions on economic resilience, growth, and the future of First Nations economies.

  
  

  Speakers

  Shelly Kaushik
• 10:00amCoffee Break10:00am - 10:15am

  Coffee Break

• 10:30amPlenary Panel | Building Strong Economies - First Nations Leadership in Action10:30am - 12:00pm

  Building Strong Economies - First Nations Leadership in Action

  An engaging discussion exploring Nation-led economic development, strategic partnerships, and innovative approaches to building strong, sustainable economies. Panelists will highlight successful initiatives, share lessons learned, and explore opportunities for collaboration between First Nations, Indigenous entrepreneurs, and local businesses. Discover how Nation-led projects, business partnerships, and emerging economic opportunities can support small business growth, create new markets, and strengthen local economies.

  
  

  Speakers

  Bill WangJodaye GarnerMandi CarrollRyan Daum
• 12:00pmLunch12:00pm - 12:30pm

  Lunch 

• 12:30pmBuilding Financial Independence - Taxation, Financial Strategy & Economic Opportunity12:30pm - 1:00pm

  Building Financial Independence - Taxation, Financial Strategy & Economic Opportunity

  An informative presentation exploring how First Nations can strengthen financial independence through taxation, sound financial management, and strategic planning. Presenters will share practical insights into building sustainable revenues, strengthening financial governance, and creating long-term economic opportunities. Entrepreneurs and small business owners will also gain valuable perspectives on financial planning, managing cash flow, accessing financing, and building financially resilient businesses positioned for sustainable growth.

  
  

  
  

  Speakers

  Dillon JohnsonTara Benham
• 1:00pmBreakout Sessions | Finding the Opportunities1:00pm - 2:15pm

  Breakout Session One: Resource Development & Partnerships – Creating Economic Opportunities

  A dynamic discussion exploring opportunities in forestry, energy and resource development. Presenters will share approaches to building successful industry partnerships, creating sustainable revenues and advancing Nation-led economic growth.

   

  Breakout Session Two: Introduction to Franchising – Opportunities for Indigenous Entrepreneurs 

  An insightful presentation on franchising as a pathway to entrepreneurship and business growth. Panelists will explore how franchising works, financing opportunities and the steps involved in becoming a franchise owner. Hear firsthand from Kekuli Café about building a franchise brand and the experiences of a franchisee bringing that vision to life.

  
  

  Speakers

  Akinwumi JolaawoDoug SlaterDr. Michelle CorfieldElijah MackSharon Bond-Hogg
• 2:15pmCoffee Break2:15pm - 2:30pm
• 2:30pmPlenary Panel | Procurement & Partnerships - Creating Opportunities for Indigenous Business Growth2:30pm - 4:00pm

  Procurement & Partnerships - Creating Opportunities for Indigenous Business Growth

  An  discussion designed to demystify procurement and unlock new opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses. Whether you're exploring procurement for the first time or looking to expand your existing opportunities, this session will provide valuable insights into how to get started, where to find opportunities, and how to position your business for success. Hear firsthand from presenters who have achieved unprecedented success in securing contracts, building strategic partnerships, and growing their businesses. 

  Panelists will share lessons learned and practical tips and strategies for navigating the procurement process, preparing competitive bids, and building relationships that lead to new opportunities. Discover how procurement can open doors to new markets and support long-term business growth.

  
  

  Speakers

  Dorian CotaDr. Michelle CorfieldKear PorttrisKyle KusznierkyPhilip Ducharme
• 4:00pmPresentation | Negotiating Our Future: Leadership, Partnerships & Economic Opportunities4:00pm - 4:20pm

  Negotiating Our Future: Leadership, Partnerships & Economic Opportunities

  Drawing on a lifetime of wisdom, leadership, and experience, this presentation will explore the importance of strong leadership, meaningful partnerships, and strategic negotiation in shaping the economic future of First Nations. Through an Elder’s perspective, attendees will gain valuable insights into balancing cultural values with economic opportunities, building relationships founded on trust and respect, and creating a lasting legacy of prosperity and opportunity for future generations.

  
  

  Speakers

  Robert J. Dennis Sr. (Emchayiik)
• 4:20pmEnd of Day Closing4:20pm - 4:30pm

  End of Day 1 Sessions

  Speakers

  Dr. Michelle Corfield
• 5:30pm2026 NEDC Business Awards5:30pm - 9:00pm

  2026 NEDC Business Awards

  Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating Indigenous entrepreneurship, innovation, and business excellence at the 2026 NEDC Business Awards. This special evening will recognize the outstanding achievements of Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses making a meaningful impact in their communities and across Vancouver Island. Enjoy an evening of celebration, cultural entertainment, dinner, and networking as we honour the vision, determination, and success of this year's award recipients.

  
  

• November 21, 2026
• 8:30amBreakfast8:30am - 8:50am

  Breakfast

• 8:50amWelcome & Morning Magic!8:50am - 9:05am

  Welcome & Morning Magic

  Start your morning with a warm welcome and a little magic! Enjoy an entertaining and uplifting start to the day as we come together for inspiration, connection, and a touch of wonder before diving into Saturday's sessions.

  
  

  Speakers

  Dr. Michelle Corfield
• 9:05amKeynote | Keep Moving Forward: Future Ready9:05am - 10:00am

  Building Resilience, Embracing Change, and Leading What’s Next

  Kendal Netmaker believes that, "the future belongs to those willing to adapt, grow, and keep moving forward." In this inspiring keynote, he draws from his journey from Sweetgrass First Nation to award-winning entrepreneur and international speaker to help entrepreneurs and business leaders navigate uncertainty with courage and clarity. Through powerful storytelling, practical lessons grounded in Indigenous values, he explores how resilience, relationships, and a willingness to learn prepare us for what comes next. Audiences leave inspired to embrace change, recognize new opportunities, and take purposeful action toward a stronger future.

  
  

  Speakers

  Kendal Netmaker
• 10:00amCoffee Break10:00am - 10:10am

  Coffee Break

• 10:15amWorkshop | Creating a World-Class Brand: Build a Brand People Remember, Trust & Choose10:15am - 12:00pm

  Creating a World-Class Brand: Build a Brand People Remember, Trust & Choose

  Kendal knows how to build a brand that earns trust, stands out, and creates opportunities. In this interactive workshop, entrepreneurs and business leaders will define what makes their business unique and learn how to communicate its value with confidence. Drawing from experience building Neechie Gear and an international speaking brand, he will share practical strategies for storytelling, positioning, and creating a consistent brand experience. Participants leave with a clearer brand message and actionable steps to strengthen their reputation, attract their ideal customers, and support business growth.

  
  

  Speakers

  Kendal Netmaker
• 12:00pmConference Ends12:00pm - 12:00pm

  Conference Ends

  Speakers

  Dr. Michelle Corfield