Indigenous Business Growth Roundtable

Indigenous Business Growth Roundtable

Hosted by Global Affairs Canada and Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC)

Join us for a dynamic and collaborative roundtable focused on advancing Indigenous business success. This interactive session brings together Indigenous entrepreneurs, Nations’ Economic Development Corporations, ecosystem partners, and subject-matter experts to explore programs, services, and funding opportunities that support Indigenous business growth. Participants will gain valuable insights into resources designed to strengthen and scale business operations, support expansion into new and international markets, and identify funding and advisory services aligned with their current stage of growth.

Location: Coast Bastion Hotel
Territory: Hosted on the territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation
City: Nanaimo, BC

This roundtable also offers the opportunity to connect directly with government representatives and ecosystem partners, learn about upcoming initiatives, and discover practical pathways to help move your business forward.

Event Agenda

Morning Session

The day begins with short, practical presentations and conversations led by partner organizations and community leaders. Participants will receive clear overviews of available services and funding, hear real-world examples of how programs can be applied in different business scenarios, and have time for open questions and discussion.

Lunch & Networking

Lunch will be provided following the morning session, with dedicated time to network, build relationships, and continue conversations with fellow entrepreneurs and partners.

Afternoon Table Discussions

In the afternoon, participants will join small-group table discussions based on topics most relevant to their business or Nation. This format allows for direct engagement with key organizations and tailored conversations.

Planned table topics include:
Funding and Business Growth Supports – PacifiCan
Export Readiness, Planning and Services – Export Navigator / Government of British Columbia
Trade Supports and Market Entry Guidance – Global Affairs Canada
Investment, Partnerships and Foreign Direct Investment – Invest in Canada
Technical and Scaling Supports – National Research Council of Canada – Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP)
Indigenous Economic Development Pathways and Financing – Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation

Whether you are launching, scaling, or exploring new markets, this roundtable is designed to provide practical tools, meaningful connections, and actionable next steps to support your business journey. We look forward to welcoming you!

For more information, please contact Mary Finch at mary@nedc.info