"The opportunity to describe the ideal qualities of a strong Aboriginal leader and to suggest how to build Aboriginal leadership capacity brought 30 Aboriginal leaders to Calgary in mid-February 2003 to an Aboriginal Leadership Roundtable. Discussed were the roles in their communities of Aboriginal leaders, the challenges these leaders face, the qualities of good leaders—and barriers, including those of accountability and those stemming from the Indian Act.
"The corporate business rationale for building Aboriginal corporate capacity is that it is good business practice, it establishes a source of effective local suppliers, and it ensures that a fair share of the benefits from economic development goes to Aboriginal communities.
"This report shows that Aboriginal business development creates wealth and employment, which can ensure the well-being of Aboriginal people at both the individual and the community levels. It profiles five successful Aboriginal businesses and proposes best practice guidelines based on common success factors and lessons learned. These guidelines are designed to inspire and encourage others to develop successful Aboriginal businesses."
"The growth of Aboriginal band-owned enterprises has reduced high unemployment levels and increased self-reliance. Growth of Enterprises in Aboriginal Communities highlights the economic success of five Aboriginal communities. These community businesses use strategic planning and standard business practices, while maintaining traditional Aboriginal values. All community members share the benefits. This report documents the experience of the Osoyoos Indian Band, Lac La Ronge Indian Band, Membertou First Nation, Mississauga's of the New Credit First Nation and Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation.
"The non-profit Aboriginal Financial Officers Association of Canada (AFOA) works to enhance the financial and management practices and skills of Aboriginal people. It does so by providing relevant, accessible and up-to-date learning opportunities, and by sharing best practices using technology and e-learning practices. For instance, AFOA created the Aboriginal Centre for Finance and Management Excellence, a one-stop web portal for Aboriginal people across the country interested in this field.
"Although they express optimism, Canadian executives see more barriers than enablers in the public policies and institutions that influence their economic relationships with Aboriginal people.
"Aboriginal Digital Opportunities, explores how Web-based distance education, e-mail and self-directed learning software can promote the development of skills, create economic development opportunities, and enable Aboriginal peoples to participate in the knowledge economy.
"Using case examples of how Canadian companies are working with Aboriginal businesses, this report provides evidence of existing and emerging Aboriginal economic strengths that are relevant to Canada’s business community. The discussion is advanced to paint a meaningful and robust picture of the opportunities available to business through the development of relationships with Aboriginal businesses, customers, employees, suppliers and communities. Aboriginal economic performance and potential provide both opportunities and risks for Canadian business."
"The role of the CCAR is to: Facilitate learning, networking and professional development. Demonstrate the importance and value of a corporate Aboriginal relations strategy. Share innovative examples of managing corporate Aboriginal relations and partnerships. Provide leadership by leveraging the Council members' knowledge and expertise to address business and societal challenges related to Aboriginal issues."
