Indigenous Partnerships — a New Way Forward to Unlock Canadian Infrastructure

Canadian corporations increasingly understand the importance of working together with Indigenous communities to form equity partnerships on procurement and infrastructure projects including transportation, oil and gas, nuclear, health, social, and mining. But for most of Canada’s history, these partnerships were traditionally unheard of, and Indigenous communities were purposefully excluded from all participation — having devastating effects on indigenous communities. Today, these partnerships are an important step towards economic reconciliation for Indigenous peoples. Indigenous partnerships also decrease project risk because participation ensures that all parties have a mutual interest in a project’s success. How did we get here?  In the past decades, there has been major development in Canadian law supporting the rights of indigenous peoples. Governments have reacted to the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee process. Governments have also implemented indigenous content rules that make participation a deal requirement. On December 10th, 2024, the Empire Club of Canada is proud to present Indigenous Partnerships — a New Way Forward to unlock Canadian Infrastructure. This event will focus on Indigenous partnerships and its impact to indigenous communities and the Canadian Infrastructure.  Our panelists will speak about the impact, the challenges and the success stories for all Canadians to learn from. Are you ready for your next project?  Please join us in welcoming Chief Cindy Woodhouse, National Chief, Assembly of First Nations; Cherie Brant, Partner and National Leader, Indigenous Law, BLG; Hillary Thatcher, Managing Director, Investments, Canada Infrastructure Bank — moderated by Michael Fox, President of ICE Indigenous.  *The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.* *Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.*