Métis Nation Economic Development Forum II Calgary, October 21,2010
Fort Calgary 1880
Context Young and Growing Population Relatively High Labour market participation rates & self-employment Education improving but too few going on to post secondary Lack of Access to capital to participate in potential business opportunities Growing recognition of the importance of Métis participation in labour market
Uncertain Economic Future Three economies (Ontario, Praries, BC) Common shared interests in rural areas (public service centres & resource development) and in large cities Geo-political economic development realities (Provincial policies)
Uncertain Past One step forward two back Who are the Métis and what rights do they possess? Constitution Act, the inherent right, the Manitoba land claim and provincial denial of Powley Institutional inability to recognize our history or decisions of their own courts and institutions
What are our Strategic Assets Human Capital (large and growing pop with labour market attachment) Ability to influence Training and Education investments (ASETS and access to other programs) Ability to bring large numbers of people to industry
Strategic Assets Aboriginality resource development on or near traditional lands (where duty to consult and accommodate); private and public sector Aboriginal procurement and preference policies (northern land leases in Saskatchewan); projects where the federal government supports public investment in a business development project; the perceived private sector benefit or advantage that comes from working with or joint venturing with a Metis business (procurement benefits or as our population continues to grow customer centred incentives);
Strategic Assets Access to special loan funds (Capital Corporations, Clarence Campeau Develolpment Fund, MRED ’ s); Potential access to royalties or casino revenues (Ontario/Saskatchewan); and Modest capacity to obtain soft community development supports (recent).
Major Challenges Lack of a land base or ready access to resource development opportunities (lack of human and financial capital to participate directly); Duty to consult and accommodate does not have an agreed upon, consistent or obvious implementation framework for Metis (or First Nations & Inuit); Lack of access to capital particularly non-loan capital to participate in private sector business and community development business projects;
Challenges Underdeveloped human resources pool to take advantage of emerging opportunities and on a timely basis; and Lack of planning supports to ensure Metis businesses and communities have the capacity to participate in projects on a timely basis
Major Opportunities Resource Development and Major Projects rolling out over the next number of years; Demographics are opening new job opportunities and opportunities to purchase well developed going concern businesses from owners who are looking to retire; Continued growth is creating opportunities for Metis entrepreneurs; and
Opportunities A renewed federal outlook and economic development framework to build upon Metis assets, address the challenges and gaps in economic development so that Metis can effectively take timely advantage of major opportunities in the economy. It is a win-win opportunity, but before examining potential elements of a new policy
What has not worked Pan Canadian or Pan Aboriginal Mixing politics with development Programs that fail to address core governance and capacity Approaches that are not tailored to Métis businesses Unionized Administrative solutions that put bums in chairs (lower cost delivery solutions)
MNC Federal Framework Submission Practical best practice based developmental solution Devolution to Métis institutions a lower cost more holistic delivery mechanism with a community and business based orientation. Revolving Capital funds. Broadening the developmental platform by integrating current employment and business development programs so that they could achieve greater results; and Seeking equitable access to federal community development funding.
Responsiveness of Federal Framework Recognizes the importance of development and usage of Métis Nation Protocol. Implementation of a distinctions based consultation process on program renewal and in the examination of pilots for women and youth. Opportunity Driven Processes Recognition of importance of Capacity Development
Draft Components of New Economic Development Framework Low cost delivery platform to maximize capital for Métis businesses and community based enterprises. Strong Governance and accountability framework that is market focused and separates business development from politics. Capital regeneration of developmental assets (growing assets over time) Focused on the return on investment ROI (not a social program).
Components continued A strong focus on economic, business, education and labour market partnerships and joint-ventures. Framework must leverage employment and procurement policies. Distinctions based developmental approach. Builds on best practices and current M 騁 is delivery infrastructure.
Graphical Description
Metis Nation Enterprise Development Fund One development fund to support Métis development Institutions Opportunity driven revolving equity fund for Elegible Métis ventures Take equity interest in targeted investment areas 10 year $100 million commitment Strong governance/accountibility
Elements continued Fund would place premium on joint ventures and partnerships Development of regionally focussed investment strategies Strategic investments in resource development and in business acquisitions Continued support for GM economic development officers
Next Steps Validate proof of concept Develop governance structure and business plan Submit formal submission to INAC on new program terms and conditions for the new fund
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