National Center for First Nation Governance (NCFNG)

"This paper adds to our knowledge base, by: (1) describing the prevailing views on Aboriginal small business and entrepreneurship; (2) defining small business and entrepreneurship in general terms; (3) describing the current state of First Nation entrepreneurship and small business 
development in Canada; (4) listing and discussing some of the challenges that First Nation small business owners and 
entrepreneurs in Canada face, and providing ideas and avenues for the enhanced support 
and promotion of those entrepreneurs thinking about starting a small business; and (5) highlighting and dis

"Poverty is still the norm for most of Canada’s First Nations, despite ongoing efforts over many years to stimulate reserve economies, including significant investment by governments trying to ‘prime the economic pump’. There are, however, some good examples where the pattern has been changed and communities are breaking the chains of poverty. There are lessons to be learned from both within Canada and outside as to what can be done to alleviate poverty and stimulate economic growth.

"Membertou’s impressive economic growth and self-sufficiency over the past 15 years has underlined the limitations of the Indian Act in defining citizens and restricting development due to regulations on land use."

“While the growth of Aboriginal organizations over the past two decades, “has had both a political and social [and economic] impact on Canadian society…. little has been written about these organizations and the role they have played in the development of Canada.” To remedy this situation, a number of analysts, research institutions, and community managers and leaders have started to piece together a useful picture of the history, development, growth, and the day-to-day operation of these organizations.”

"This paper will focus on the human resources challenges that face First Nations communities and their governments in rebuilding their capacity for good governance and in meeting their sovereign obligations. The vision that First Nations people see where they are self-sufficient, autonomous and significant contributors to society requires a paradigm shift for the federal government in its Indian policy.

"Five Pillars of Effective Governance is now available as a PDF booklet and can be viewed at fngovernance.org/pillars. Learn about The People, The Land, Laws & Jurisdiction, Institutions, Resources – pillars for developing effective, independent First Nations governance. The booklet introduces a key set of principles that helps to blend traditional values with the modern realities of self-governance. These principles, developed in think tanks and dialogue with indigenous governance experts, form the foundation for NCFNG’s philosophy and services. "

This project involved extensive research into and analysis of the role that meaningful consultation can play in First Nation development in Canada. A key element was to develop insights into the importance of consultation in helping First Nations achieve greater self governance. […] Another significant component of the research program was to identify and analyze existing guides on consultation and examine their applicability for First Nation users.”

Information regarding the First Nations Governance Act as it relates to administration and financial management.

Case study of Membertou First Nation, representing the principle of "Accontability and Reporting" as part of National Center for First Nation Governance's Best Practices series.

"The Governance Best Practices Report profiles the work of 25 First Nations, tribes and aboriginal organizations across Canada and in the United States. Based on NCFNG's principles of effective governance, each profile provides the reader with a brief snapshot of strategies, techniques, procedures or processes that produce efficiencies in governance."