Our Work

Jobs, Business, and Community Buildings

Jobs, Business, and Community Buildings

We are committed to supporting economic growth and infrastructure development that strengthens Mi’kmaq communities on Prince Edward Island. Our work focuses on identifying funding opportunities, supporting First Nations businesses, and building partnerships with governments and the private sector.

Ultimately, a strong local economy helps build self-sufficiency, supports families, and creates meaningful employment for Mi’kmaq youth. It also provides the foundation for better services and vibrant communities. 

When our people lead their own economic development, we aren’t just building new spaces and businesses, we’re creating the foundation for our people to thrive—now and for future generations, while strengthening community pride and honouring our cultural identity.

The Challenges

Our communities have and continue to face challenges when it comes to growing our local economies, including:

  • Limited access to funding, capital, and investment.
  • Barriers that make it difficult for Indigenous businesses to launch and/or expand to larger markets.
  • The need for more infrastructure to support community services, programs, and business activities.

What We're Doing

To support economic development and strengthen our communities, we are:

  • Helping First Nations identify and access funding for business and infrastructure projects.
  • Supporting the growth of Mi’kmaq-owned businesses and social enterprises.
  • Building partnerships with governments and the private sector to bring investment and opportunity to our communities.

Milestones

One inspiring example of a highly successful infrastructure development project is Abegweit First Nation’s new Connects building. This space serves as a hub for community development and a model for successful, locally-led economic growth. It demonstrates what’s possible when we invest in our communities and create spaces designed by and for our people.