NEDC Funding & Support for Indigenous Business

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NEDC Funding & Support for Indigenous Business

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02/07/2026

Day three of the Indigenous Seafood Conference reminded us why coming together matters. When communities are often working in remote places, it’s not always possible to see what others are building, learning, or navigating. Spaces like this change that by creating opportunities for Nations to share knowledge, learn from one another, and carry those insights back home to their families and communities.

From export pathways to partnerships and value-added strategies, the conversations reflected resilience, leadership, and momentum. When knowledge is shared and voices are connected, we become unstoppable.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this event. Your passion, leadership, and commitment to the fishing industry and Indigenous sovereignty are what truly made this gathering a success. We also thank our conference partners, the Native Fishing Association, Ha’oom Fishers Society and our sponsor, New Relationship Trust.

At NEDC, we are committed to supporting the growth and capacity of our Indigenous fishers and seafood business owners. Whether you’re strengthening your operations, exploring new opportunities, or planning your next steps, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

02/04/2026

Indigenous Seafood Conference - Day 1

It was an honour to gather so many strong voices at the Indigenous Seafood Conference, co-hosted by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation, the Native Fishing Association, and the Ha’oom Fisheries Society. The conversations in the room made one thing clear. The future of the Indigenous seafood industry is built through collaboration. There was a shared commitment to working together, strengthening relationships, and creating pathways that centre youth and support the next generation. The evening also included a special moment recognizing William Gladstone Sr., who was honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his lifelong leadership and contributions to Indigenous fisheries and community wellbeing. When we come together with a common purpose, the impact is powerful.

02/02/2026

We’re so excited for this year’s Indigenous Seafood Conference!

We’re especially proud to feature a stunning conference image designed by Tommy Brown. Thank you for bringing our vision to life!

We have an incredible lineup for this year’s conference, including the Skippers Session, Indigenous Tax Session, and a special presentation. Attendees will also enjoy a spectacular performance by the Kumugwe Dancers!

Check out our speakers and the full agenda here: https://www.nedc.info/workshops-events/

A huge thank you to our amazing vendors who will be onsite, including: Ay Lelum, Fish Safe BC, Parksville Boathouse, Ravensong Soap & Candles, Sherrin Communications, Texave International Inc., and more!

We can’t wait to see you there!

01/22/2026

Panelist Announcement: Connie Crocker

We’re honoured to welcome Connie Crocker, a First Nations Elder from the Pune'luxutth' Tribe, as a panelist at the Indigenous Seafood Conference, taking place February 3–5 at the Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Parksville. Connie will be part of our panel honouring women and their contributions to the fishing industry, highlighting the vital roles women play in this challenging and ever-evolving space.

With lived experience in both commercial and traditional harvesting, and a deep commitment to ocean stewardship and community partnerships, Connie brings a powerful and grounded voice to this important conversation.

Please join us in welcoming Connie to the panel!

Join the Waitlist Now: https://www.nedc.info/workshops-events/

01/21/2026

Celebrating Indigenous-Owned St-Jean’s Cannery

We’re thrilled to highlight St-Jean’s Cannery, an Indigenous-owned brand dedicated to bringing high-quality foods to every table. Their products honor tradition, community, and the rich heritage of Indigenous food practices.

Leading the way is Alan Thompson, President of St-Jean’s Cannery, who guides the brand with a focus on growth, innovation, and staying true to its Indigenous values. Under his leadership, St-Jean’s continues to support local communities and share the richness of Indigenous food traditions with the world.

Join us at the Indigenous Seafood Conference on Feb 3-5 to hear more about this inspiring brand and the people behind it!

Waitlist Registration: https://www.nedc.info/workshops-events/

01/19/2026

Panelist Announcement!

We’re excited to welcome Andy Olson as a panelist at the Indigenous Seafood Conference, happening February 3–5 at the beautiful Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Parksville.

Andy Olson is a visionary leader and advocate with over 20 years of experience advancing Indigenous fishing rights, sovereignty, and economic success across Canada and the United States. His work supports place-based economies, sustainable fisheries, and innovative food processing, delivering real results for Indigenous communities, including securing multi-million dollar revenues.

Join us to hear Andy share insights, strategies, and real-world experience!

Register Now! https://www.nedc.info/workshops-events/

[email protected] or 250-240-5943

01/18/2026

Guest Presenter Announcement!

We’re excited to welcome Marc Peeler and his family as presenters at the Indigenous Seafood Conference, happening February 3–5 at the Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Parksville.

Marc is a generational fisherman and proud Kwaguilth member who has spent his life on the water. An entrepreneur at heart, he is known for his forward-thinking approach and for mentoring band members - sharing knowledge, skills, and opportunities to help strengthen the next generation of the fishing workforce.

⏳ Time is running out to register!
All Indigenous fishers and local seafood professionals are encouraged to attend.

👉 Register here: https://www.nedc.info/workshops-events/

📧 Or contact Susan Lewis at [email protected]

📞 250-240-5943

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and help shape the future of the Indigenous seafood market!

01/16/2026

Indigenous Seafood Conference!

Join us at the Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Parksville for a unique gathering of Indigenous skippers, fishers, and community partners. Connect, learn, and share as we explore new ideas, innovations, and opportunities in the fishing and seafood sector.

Hear inspiring stories, discover emerging trends, and celebrate collaboration that strengthens Indigenous fishing and seafood communities.

This event is proudly co-hosted by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC), the Native Fishing Association (NFA), and Ha’oom Fisheries Society (HFS).

Accommodations, meals, and all conference sessions are provided at no cost for Indigenous fishers and local seafood community members.

Register Now: https://www.nedc.info/workshops-events/

12/19/2025

Indigenous Seafood Conference 2026

Mark your calendars! The Indigenous Seafood Conference returns February 3–5, 2026, at the beautiful Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Parksville.

This conference is proudly co-hosted by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC), Ha’oom Fisheries Society (HFS), and the Native Fishing Association (NFA).

The event brings together skippers and fishers from across our communities to connect, share experiences, and support one another. It’s a welcoming space to discuss challenges, exchange ideas, and work together to strengthen local fisheries and Indigenous food systems.

Program Highlights:

Skippers-only session focused on peer connection, sharing successes and challenges, building mentorship relationships, and exploring training opportunities.

General sessions on topics identified by past participants, including regulations and policy, sustainability and environmental stewardship, marketing and selling fish, local food systems, certifications, fish-processing infrastructure, and access to fisheries.

The full agenda is currently being finalized. Keep watching our page for updates!

📩 For more information: [email protected]
📝 Registration: [email protected]

10/22/2025

To all the incredible women who participated in the Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs Workshop in Victoria on September 29 & 30 — thank you!

Caledonia, we are so grateful for your leadership and guidance as you led us through Truth and Reconciliation Day, honoring moments of resilience — not only from our own lives, but also from the Indigenous women who came before us. “We carry generations of strength.”

To all the brave participants, thank you for sharing your stories. Your courage continues to inspire and motivate your families, communities, and everyone around you. Your commitment to your own success shows that dreams can come true.

We celebrate your strength, resilience, and the possibility you create for yourselves and those around you. 💕

Photo credits: Melody Charlie

10/02/2025

Have you heard? Free Entrepreneur Workshop in Tofino!

Calling all Indigenous women and youth! Whether you’re dreaming of starting a business or ready to grow your existing one, this FREE workshop has everything you need:

🏨 One night in Tofino
🥗 Meals included
🚌 Transportation support

📅 IWE: October 14 | 15 IYE: October 16 | 17
📍 Tin Wis Resort, Tofino, BC
📞 Register now: 250-735-8871 | [email protected]

Follow us on Instagram nedc1984 for tips, inspiration, and updates — don’t miss a single opportunity to make your dreams come true!

09/30/2025

On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we pause to reflect, listen, and learn. Today is a time to honor Survivors, their families, and the generations impacted by the legacy of residential schools. It is also a reminder that reconciliation is not a single day, but an ongoing responsibility for all of us.

As part of that responsibility, we’re creating spaces for connection, learning, and growth—including opportunities to explore economic health and healing as part of building stronger, resilient, prosperous communities.

IWE Workshop in Tofino – October 14 & 15 | Tofino
A supportive space for women to come together in reflection and dialogue, fostering resilience, community, and pathways toward economic well-being.

IYE Workshop – October 16 & 17 | Tofino
A dynamic gathering for Indigenous youth to connect, share knowledge, and explore pathways toward entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.

These workshops are more than events—they are opportunities to listen deeply, grow, and walk together on the journey toward meaningful change, and stronger economic futures.

Workshops include free accommodations, meals and travel reimbursements!

Address

7563 Pacific Rim Highway
Port Alberni, BC
V9Y 8Y5

Telephone

+12507243131

Website

http://www.nedc.info/

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