Business Resources for Indigenous Entrepreneurs
Did You Know: BC is home to the second largest number of Indigenous entrepreneurs in Canada, with over 2,000 Indigenous-owned businesses located across the province. In fact, the number of Indigenous entrepreneurs in BC has grown by more than 20% since 2011. Thinking of starting your own business? This page provides aspiring, emerging and established Indigenous entrepreneurs with the resources you need to thrive in the small business world.
Already a small business owner? Join our BC Marketplace for free province-wide promotion, increased web traffic and marketing opportunities.
Read our Article on Business Resources for Indigenous Peoples
Discover the resources and supports available at Small Business BC and partner organizations to help you start and grow a successful small business.
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Discover Amazing Indigenous-led Businesses
In recognition of National Indigenous History Month, the BC Marketplace is honouring the incredible Indigenous-led businesses across our province. Explore Indigenous-owned businesses, or add your own business, on the BC Marketplace.
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Hear from Ta7talíya Michelle Nahanee on Decolonizing Entrepreneurship
Businesses have an important role to play in reconciliation. We spoke to Ta7talíya Michelle Nahanee to learn more about Decolonization and reconciliation in business.
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Discover the Importance of Land Acknowledgements
Brianna Julian, Director of Indigenous Business Development Services shares her thoughts on the importance of Land Acknowledgements for businesses operating in Canada.
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SBBC and IBDS Announce Partnership
Small Business BC is pleased to announce a partnership with Indigenous Business Development Services.
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Indigenomics Institute
Hear how Carol-Anne Hilton (Hesquiaht Nation), founder of The Indigenomics Institute, plans to grow the Indigenous economy to $100 billion in the next five years, creating a new economic reality in which Indigenous peoples have an equal share.
Ay Lelum
Aunalee & Sophia Good (Snuneymuxw First Nation) are sisters and founders of Ay Lelum, a second generation Coast Salish Design House from Nanaimo, BC. They design and produce clothing and fabric patterns featuring traditional Coast Salish Art by their Father William Good, and Brother W. Joel Good.
Iskwew Air
Teara Fraser is a trailblazer. The first female Indigenous airline owner, and a DC Comics superhero! Read our profile to find out more.
Sea Wolf Adventures
Mike Willie is the founder of Sea Wolf Adventures. His unique business takes guests on tours of the rugged BC coastline, sharing the history and wildlife of this spectacular corner of our province.
Free resource downloads from SBBC:
- Starting a business checklist
- Business plan template
- Evaluate your business idea tool
- Apply for Covid-19 support funds through your closest Aboriginal Financial Institution
- Covid-19 support specifically for Indigenous tourism businesses