Indigenous Business and Economic Development - January 2027
Indigenous Business and Economic Development - January 2027 supports Indigenous leaders and community workers with training in economic governance and business planning for self-determined economic development.
Funder: Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity
Due Dates: December 8, 2026 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Partial assistance toward a $3,718 + GST program fee; participants pay at least 25%
Summary: Financial assistance supports participation in in-person training on Indigenous economic governance, community development, and business planning.
Key Information: Financial assistance is available only to Indigenous participants or those working for Indigenous communities and organizations.
Description
Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity offers this in-person Indigenous Leadership program to strengthen sustainable, self-determined economic development. It explores effective policy, culturally appropriate institutions, and the role of Indigenous leaders in shaping economic activity, then connects those foundations to practical work with Indigenous communities, Indigenous-owned businesses, and entrepreneurs.
Through case studies and best practices, participants examine community economic development and business planning. Topics include asserting self-governance, building institutions, setting strategic direction, separating politics from business, and financing Indigenous economic ventures. The program reviews the Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development and considers community economics from an Indigenous perspective. With guidance from an Elder, participants share traditional and spiritual wisdom while connecting with the land and cultural teachings. Financial assistance helps eligible participants cover part of the program fee.
