Québec Announces $45 Million Fund to boost Indigenous Entrepreneurship
Québec is investing $45 million to foster economic growth within First Nations and Inuit communities through a new fund dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs. The initiative, announced today, aims to empower Indigenous businesses and drive regional economic advancement across the province.
The fund represents a significant step toward reconciliation and economic self-determination for Indigenous communities in Québec. It will provide financial resources and support services to help Indigenous entrepreneurs launch and expand businesses, creating jobs and stimulating economic activity in their regions. According to Ian Lafrenière, Minister responsible for Relations with First Nations and Inuit, the investment fund will also contribute to improving the economies of the regions, “which will benefit from the spinoffs of the projects.”
The initiative builds on existing partnerships, such as those between Hydro-Québec and Indigenous communities outlined in the state corporation’s 2035 Action Plan, demonstrating the growing potential for collaboration in the renewable energy sector. Assembly of First Nations Québec-Labrador (AFNQL) head Haskan Sioui anticipates a future where ”100% indigenous projects” will become increasingly prevalent.
“we can project ourselves into the future,” sioui stated, envisioning the possibility of creating a new fund in the coming years to address further needs and expand into other sectors. The fund is expected to facilitate not only new alliances but also the development of entirely Indigenous-led ventures.
