Summary HIGHLIGHTING THE CAPABILITIES OF A NATION. Current and future projects... 2

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1 FIRST NATIONS OF QUEBEC AND LABRADOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (FNQLEDC) Summary Current and future projects... 2 Increase in postage costs... 2 Socio-Cultural Services... 3 Indicators of entrepreneurial Dynamism among Quebec s Aboriginal Peoples: The findings of phases ii and iii will soon be available...4 Community Action and Social Economy Network...6 Project W: a nice initiative underway in WôlinaK... 7 Forestry Column...8 Legal Column...9 Tourism Column We wish to thank our Funders APRIL 2014 Volume 13 ISSUE 1 HIGHLIGHTING THE CAPABILITIES OF A NATION For this issue of the Nikan bulletin, the FNQLEDC visited the Wôlinak community to meet representatives of the Grand Conseil de la Nation Waban-Aki, the Abenaki Nation Tribal Council. The Abenaki communities of Wôlinak and Odanak are doing well both socially and economically. Of course, the fact that the two communities are located halfway between Quebec and Montreal might help, but the work carried out by the employees at the Grand Conseil de la Nation Waban-Aki (GCNWA) also contributes greatly. In fact, a particular term sums up the steps taken by the GCNWA: proactivity. According to their Executive Director, Denys Bernard, Grand Conseil employees are always on the lookout for development opportunities with the objective of serving as a model for the youth of both communities and of demonstrating that it is possible to live and work on a reserve and to be successful. To be at the forefront of business opportunities, the Executive Director of the Grand Conseil has multiplied over the past few months his meetings with the CEOs of major companies as well as with various government departments and officials in order to remind everyone that the Abenaki people are there and they want to contribute to the region s economic development. The approach is neither aggressive nor hard-line, the aim is rather to remind everyone of their presence and that the capabilities they have developed may make them important partners for future projects. In fact, the GCNWA offers several services to the two Abenaki communities it represents. These services are numerous, ranging from civil engineering and architecture, to building mechanics and conducting project feasibility studies. The GCNWA also offers translation services for various documents. In fact, the English version of the bulletin was translated by the GCNWA translator. These services are also available to other Aboriginal communities in Quebec, including Kanesatake and Listuguj. The GCNWA also serves the non-native municipality of Sainte-Françoise-de-Lotbinière, which is a first.

2 CURRENT AND FUTURE PROJECTS The steps taken by the GCNWA economically are beginning to bear fruit. In fact, several projects are underway and more are coming. Here s a quick overview of some of these projects. IFFCO Canada Entreprise Limited fertilizer plant and Quest Rare Minerals processing plant In the months following the closure of the Gentilly-2 nuclear power plant in Bécancour, the Quebec government announced the creation of the Economic Diversification Fund for the Centre-du-Québec and Mauricie (Fonds de diversification économique du Centredu-Québec et de la Mauricie). This fund aims to encourage start-ups and the development of business plans and to develop new and future-oriented industries in the area. The initiative appears to be working since two large companies have decided to build factories at the port of Bécancour. In fact, in 2014, IFFCO Canada Entreprise Limited will construct a fertilizer plant in Bécancour, a 1.4 billion dollar project which has recently received approval from the Bureau d audiences sur l environment (BAPE). The second plant, a Quest Rare Minerals project, will specialize in the processing of rare earth. This project is valued at $ 1.3 billion. TransCanada Pipeline The Alberta based company, TransCanada, will build a pipeline across Quebec from west to east. The company has consulted with Odanak and Wôlinak community members in mid-january in order to know their opinion on the project, which will cross the ancestral territory of the Abenaki people. If the project is approved, the Abenaki would like to be involved in the pipeline s construction. Construction Consortium The Abenaki people would like to create a construction consortium through a joint venture with a non-aboriginal construction company. This consortium would allow the Abenaki to bid on contracts for the Ministère des Transports du Québec. However, in the context of the Charbonneau Commission, the contracting rules will be reviewed. For example, to obtain contracts, the consortium will have to demonstrate that 50% of the workforce employed on the worksite is Aboriginal. A training plan for community members will also have to be provided. Creation of a Legal Department The Grand Conseil would like to recruit a young lawyer who will provide advice to the two Abenaki communities, but also to other Aboriginal communities in Quebec. These services would be offered at a lower cost than with private firms. In conclusion, it is important to note that since these projects are carried out by the GCNWA, which represents the interests of Wôlinak and Odanak community members, the economic benefits that will result will be reinvested in the two communities. MEmo INCREASE IN POSTAGE COSTS Please note that due to the stamp increases, only CEDOs, members of the First Nations of Quebec Business Network, community Chiefs and FNQLEDC funding parties will receive the Nikan bulletin paper version, beginning April 1, Others will now receive the bulletin electronically. If you want to receive the electronic version of the bulletin, please contact Marie-Christine Tremblay by at mtremblay@cdepnql.org or by phone at

3 Socio-Cultural Services Although the Nikan bulletin only presents in its pages projects related to economic development, we are making an exception as we cannot ignore the large number of socio-cultural activities organized in the communities of Wôlinak and Odanak. The Grand Conseil de la Nation Waban-Aki has introduced a Community and Social Services program, the First Nations Child and Family Services (FNCFS) program, which helps to create a more stable, secure and dynamic family and social environment for children from both communities. The objectives of the activities organized by the FNCFS are to: Promote the sense of belonging and community identity; Create healthy and cordial community relations; Increase youth presence in the community; Reduce alcohol and drug addiction; Support family development and promote parenting. Several activities are organized for the youth, including boxing lessons which are very popular among the Odanak youth. Also, homework assistance is offered to elementary and secondary school kids, which contributes to higher academic achievement. In addition, an entrepreneurial project designed from A to Z by our youth, Project W, is also underway in Wôlinak since early January. More details about this project will be also presented in an article in the section Entrepreneur s Corner of the bulletin. Finally, parent groups, family (Halloween party, Odanak carnival, etc) and sports activities as well as training sessions (parenting skills, managing a household budget, etc) are also offered by the program. All these services and activities contribute to making the Odanak and Wôlinak communities socially stronger, which can only contribute positively to their economic development. 3

4 INDICATORS OF Entrepreneurial Dynamism among Quebec s Aboriginal Peoples: THE FINDINGS OF PHASES II AND III WILL SOON BE AVAILABLE From March 2013 to February 2014, the Centre d études collégiales à Chibougamau was entrusted with a FNQLEDC mandate to conduct a study on the Indicators of Entrepreneurial Dynamism among Quebec s Aboriginal Peoples, the first part of which was made public in Before the results are made public, you will find hereunder an overview of the key endpoints of the study. The study was conducted through a Web survey accessible from the FNQLEDC Website and a Facebook page created especially for the occasion. In total, persons responded to the survey, but only questionnaires were retained. 77% of the respondents lived on reserve, and the Innus (24%), the Crees (23%) and the Algonquins (13%) were among the nations that responded the most to the survey. Once the data were compiled, the key analyses were presented to some fifteen community economic development officers (CEDOs) during a focus group discussion held on November The latter had the opportunity to validate the survey results. Entrepreneurial Indicators per Nation The study analyzed the entrepreneurial dynamism among the First Nations, based on four specific indicators: the intention, the approach, business ownership and closures. If we take these indicators on a nation to nation basis (refer to chart 1), it can be established that the Naskapis (63,64%), the Crees (61,46%) and the Atikamekws (54,29%) are the nations that have the most desire for enterprising. As far as approach is concerned, it s the Mohawks (8,55%), the Crees (5,41%) and the Algonquins (4,92%) that are the most active. At the level of ownership, the Nations with the largest number of business owners, are the Mohawks (11,97%), the Abenakis (8,93%) and the Hurons-wendat (3,13%). Finally, the highest level of closures are among the Mohawks (6,84%), the Micmacs (5,32%) and the Maliseets (2,56%). Entrepreneurial Indicators according to the Geographical Location When we look at Chart 2, we can see that the geographical location of the communities seems to have an impact on the entrepreneurial indicators. For example, in the rural and remote communities, the desire for entrepreneurship is higher than in urban communities. On the other hand, the approach and ownership phases are far lower in the rural and remote sectors. This means therefore that, although the intention for enterprising is high in these communities, in reality, very few people take action. Quite the contrary in urban communities: the intentions are much lower, but real entrepreneurship is much more vigorous. In fact, 75 % of persons claiming to own a business reside in a community situated in urban region. Chart 2 Remote Rural Urban Total Intention 57,17% 43,69% 35,99% 47,22% Approach 4,10% 4,47% 5,41% 4,54% Ownership 0,74% 0,78% 7,96% 2,42% Closure 0,56% 2,91% 3,50% 2,12% Entrepreneurial index 62,57% 51,84% 52,87% 56,30% Chart 1 Abenakis Algonquins Atikamekws Crees Hurons-wendat Innus Maliseets Micmacs Mohawks Naskapis Intention 21.43% 44.81% 54.29% 61.46% 31.25% 46.81% 30.77% 34.04% 44.44% 63.64% Approach 3.57% 4.92% 3.81% 5.41% 3.13% 3.65% 2.56% 4.26% 8.55% 0.00% Ownership 8.93% 1.64% 0.00% 0.64% 3.13% 1.52% 0.00% 1.06% 11.97% 0.00% Closure 1.79% 2.19% 1.90% 0.64% 1.04% 1.52% 2.56% 5.32% 6.84% 0.00% Entrepreneurial index 35.71% 53.55% 60.00% 68.15% 38.54% 53.50% 35.90% 44.68% 71.79% 63.64% 4

5 As we will see in Charts 3 and 4, several reasons could explain this situation. Incentives and Barriers to Entrepreneurship As we can see in Chart 3, for the Innus (46,4%), the Hurons-wendat (40,7%), the Malissets (36,0%), the Atikamekws (33,3%), the Naskapis (33,3%) and the Mohawks (30,3%), the prime motivation for starting a business is to carry out their own projects. On the Micmacs (34,6%) and the Algonquins side (32,9%), the main reason that drives people to start a business is to improve their standards of living. And finally, 31,0% of the Crees wish to create a business so they no longer have a boss, and 30,6% of the Abenakis wish to do likewise in order to feel more independent and free. Chart 3 Abenakis Algonquins Atikamekws Crees Hurons-wendat Innus Maliseets Micmacs Mohawks Naskapis Total To carry out my own projects 22,2% 27,1% 33,3% 23,0% 40,7% 46,4% 36,0% 17,3% 30,3% 33,3% 32,7% To improve my standards of living 16,7% 32,9% 16,7% 25,0% 25,4% 19,6% 28,0% 34,6% 15,2% 16,7% 24,0% No longer have a boss 13,9% 17,6% 9,5% 31,0% 8,5% 7,8% 0,0% 19,2% 15,2% 16,7% 14,9% To take advantage of a unique business opportunity To feel more independent, and more free To follow the example of a successful entrepreneur who is a source of inspiration for me 16,7% 5,9% 21,4% 10,0% 13,6% 15,7% 28,0% 19,2% 15,2% 8,3% 14,2% 30,6% 15,3% 19,0% 7,0% 11,9% 10,5% 8,0% 9,6% 21,2% 16,7% 13,1% 0,0% 1,2% 0,0% 4,0% 0,0% 0,0% 0,0% 0,0% 3,0% 8,3% 1,2% Let s look at Chart 4 for the main barriers to entrepreneurship. Chart 4 Intention Approach Ownership Closure Total Indian taxation and financing 40,3% 32,3% 21,2% 3,4% 37,5% Lack of training and experience in business 36,0% 29,0% 30,3% 31,0% 35,0% Lack of support/assistance from organizations at the business start-up phase 34,7% 27,4% 21,2% 13,8% 32,8% Difficult local economic situation 29,3% 40,3% 45,5% 44,8% 31,5% Lack of business knowledge 30,7% 33,9% 33,3% 27,6% 30,9% Difficult political context 28,4% 27,4% 21,2% 13,8% 27,4% Too much red tape and administrative formalities 25,7% 30,6% 45,5% 27,6% 27,0% Lack of support/assistance from family members at the start-up phase 17,8% 9,7% 9,1% 20,7% 16,9% Lack of informations and services in English 8,7% 12,9% 6,1% 13,8% As we can see above, the barriers to entrepreneurship vary according to the indicators studied. Effectively, at the intention phase, the main barriers are Indian taxation and financing. (40,3%). At the approach phase, it is more a difficult local economic situation (40,3%) and a lack of knowledge of the business sector (33,9%) that could adversely affect the business projects. For the owners, it is the difficult local economic situation (45,5%) and the fact that there is too much red tape and administrative formalities (45,5 %) that constitute the most harmful elements. To conclude, the difficult local economic situation (44,8%) and the lack of training and business experience (31,0%) would be the main reasons for business closures. This article depicts only a few of the findings of this study which comprises many more data. The different documents of the study will be made public in April To consult the documents, or to review the findings of phase I of the study, please visit Source : Enquête sur le dynamisme entrepreneurial des Autochtones du Québec (Survey on Entrepreneurial Dynamism among Quebec s Aboriginal Peoples) Phase III, Centre d études collégiales à Chibougamau,

6 Community Action and Social Economy Network COMMUNITY ORGANIZERS ARE READY TO ENTER INTO ACTION The Community Action and Social Economy Network call for application and hiring process is now a thing of the past. In fact, community organizers were hired in each of the pilot communities and are now ready to tackle their initiative. It s worth mentioning that each of the organizers is from the community in which she works. Although they ve not been in their position for a long time, the community organizers have nevertheless undertaken several actions that have impacted their communities. For example, in Ekuanitshit, where the organizer has been in office since the beginning of December, a purchasing group has already been established. In total, 28 families participate in this project, which is a large number considering the community has 546 members. In the Lower North Shore region, food prices are high. This doesn t facilitate the lives of individuals and families with limited financial resources and who, more often than not, don t have a vehicle. Through the purchasing group, the 28 participating families can be supplied with quality food at a lower cost. Additionally, the project has implications in terms of their health, because it provides better nutrition. Furthermore, for certain families, it s an excellent way to come out of isolation and fight against poverty and food insecurity. Establishing Local Working Tables and Implementing Activities The community organizers first mandate is to join or establish a local working table. The idea is to bring together administrators that work within the community, but in different sectors. The working table brings out the sector converging points enabling more energetic teamwork while avoiding the duplication of services. In parallel to this table, the organizers must find ways to mobilize the population around activities that have a positive impact at the socio economic level. Several projects have already generated interest, wherein the Ekuanitshit purchasing group is a good example. There are more projects to come such as: a community kitchen, a clothing thrift shop, community gardens, a school youth breakfast program, forest harvesting activities, respite services for mothers, collective/public transport services and labour market reintegration in terms of firewood. The projects that generate interest all have common points. They improve quality of life, promote relationships between community members, validate and transmit the From left to right : Mr. Emmanuel Bertrand-Gauvin, Ms. Valérie Kaltush, Ms. Lorrie Ann Oke, Ms. Ashley Barnaby and Ms. Pinomen Anjenik Michel. culture as well as allowing individuals to have access to nutritious food at a good price. An Increasingly Diverse Network of Partners The Community Action Network, which is the structure that supports the four community organizers, is also being established. In order to create a Network that promotes the use of everyone s resources, we have brought together, among others, non-native partners such as the Chantier de l économie sociale, Regroupement canadien en économie communautaire, Le Club des petits déjeuners, Breakfast for Learning, Québec en forme and the Conseil québécois pour la coopération et la mutualité. External partners prefer to collaborate rather than impose and moreover, they want their actions to have a positive impact within Aboriginal communities. Through the Network, we have the increased ability to identify community needs to then tailor solutions based on our partners support services, all the while facilitating their implementation and supporting communities in the necessary administrative procedures. 6

7 Positive results are already visible. Although there are difficulties, by having an open mind and being ready to adjust ourselves, and more importantly, keeping in mind that the goal is to support communities that want to improve the living environment of their members, we find solutions that are generally satisfactory for all. For more information on the Community Action Network, please visit aspx. You can also consult our Facebook page at Entrepreneur s Corner ProjeCt W: a nice initiative underway in WôlinaK Our Wôlinak youth are in fashion and they re preparing a colorful show. Under the theme of Aboriginal Pride and Culture, the community s teenagers participating in Project W are currently organizing a fashion show with clothes designed by our youth (9-17 years-old) using traditional and recycled materials. Project W is entirely organized by our Wôlinak youth and was introduced by two extraordinary young ladies, Kassandra Lefebvre and Shelly Bonneville, who wanted to get involved in their community, and through their leadership, they are seeking to develop the entrepreneurial spirit of other youth and showcase the skills and talent of the Abenaki people of Wôlinak. Throughout their project, they will be accompanied by Valérie Laforce, community organizer, and Laura Tardif, special education teacher, two resources working for the community s youth. The show is scheduled for Saturday, May 3, and preparations are already underway to put on a top-notch event. The coordinator of the FNQLEDC student entrepreneur clubs is proud to provide support to these youth so they may realize their project. MEmoABORIGINAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY The FNQLEDC wishes to inform you that since the beginning of February 2014, they have been contacting companies from all communities to create an electronic version of the Aboriginal Business Directory that will include contact information for all Aboriginal businesses located on and off reserve. Once finalized, this directory can be used by major suppliers of work (e.g. Hydro-Quebec, Rio Tinto Alcan, etc) or by provincial or federal departments during the bidding process. If you are a business owner, you can currently send us your information by contacting Anne Esther Legagneur by at alegagneur@cdepnql.org or by phone at

8 New! Entrepreneur s Corner Forestry Column NON-TIMBER FOREST PRODUCTS By André Benoît, Director general, First Nations of Quebec Forestry Network The presence of Aboriginal communities in North America dates back several millennia. Over time, the First Nations of Quebec have developed a close relationship with the territory, especially with the forest. They have extracted knowledge which represents a rich source of lessons on the virtues of wildlife and plants and their benefits to human health. Linking knowledge to the base of traditional activities, modernity and profitability is at the heart of the challenge of First Nations. Their knowledge of the land and plants and other benefits derived from the forest, Aboriginal people are well positioned to take their place in the market for non-timber forest products (NTFPs), whose economic potential is estimated at $1 billion per year in Canada. The hidden treasures of our woodland... NTFPs are a variety of products of biological origin other than wood, derived from forests. They have always been and continue to be an important part of Aboriginal culture. Not only for their various characteristics (medicinal plants, food, decorative, etc), but also as part of a way of life. Today, the quality of life of many communities depends on forest products. What has changed is the interest in these products in non-aboriginal communities. Several trends have influenced this change: Several regions of Quebec are trying to diversify the forestry industry to optimize their performance and it appears that NTFPs have a significant exploitation potential; The new forest regime in Quebec prompted the establishment of an approach to the sustainable development of forests; Growing and harvesting NTFPs NTFPs are cultivated or harvested under forest cover or in fields, provided they come from forests or areas associated with shrub or tree vegetation such as wild land, woods, forests, windbreaks and plantations. If it is harvested environmentally, production is renewed every year. It should be noted that the revenue from forestry can easily quadruple if NTFPs are harvested responsibly. The First Nations of Quebec Forestry Network (the Network) offers the possibility of establishing collaborative relationships and research and business partnerships with communities, Aboriginal organizations and businesses whose traditional territory is brimming with opportunities. The Network would like to become a support strategy to the development of First Nations of Quebec forestry companies. The Network has already established relationships in different NTFP research sectors and has participated at working tables on the promotion and development of non-timber forest product companies. In the near future, business opportunities will arise for Aboriginal contractors interested in the industry. Always looking for cosmetic innovations, larger companies are seeking inspiration in the knowledge of the properties of plants, which can guide research on active molecules and decrease production costs; A fascination by the international community for the most natural products can cause larger companies to use NTFPs in the active bases of their products (e.g. Lise Watier creams made from Labrador tea). First Nations of Quebec Forestry Network 1423, rue Ouiatchouan Mashteuiatsh (Quebec) G0W 2H0 Telephone: info@ffpnq.com Web site: 8

9 Entrepreneur s Corner Legal Column CONTRACTORS AND THE IMPACTS OF THE FAMILY HOMES ON RESERVES AND MATRIMONIAL INTERESTS OR RIGHTS ACT By Benoît Champoux, Neashish & Champoux s.e.n.c. In a previous issue, we discussed the unseizability of property on an Indian reserve in connection with questions that could result in the planning and financing of an Aboriginal contractor. The recent adoption of the Family Homes on Reserves and Matrimonial Interests or Rights Act requires contractors to once again exercise diligence and foresight in planning and within their organization. For some, such considerations in this regard were not even a concern in the context of their activities. However, they could quickly become an issue. Briefly, this new federal law, whose entry into force will occur in two stages, in December 2013 and December 2014, aims to enable First Nations to adopt legislative regimes or, de facto, apply provisional rules, applicable to the conjugal relationship (or breakdown thereof) relating to the use, occupation and possession of family homes situated on First Nation reserves and sharing the value of rights or interests of the spouse or common-law partner that are held on the structures and lands situated on those reserves. In case of breakdown of a conjugal relationship or in case of death of one of the two parties, the legislative framework should provide for the sharing between each spouse or common-law partner of rights of use and occupation of the family home. It may provide for the granting of a compensatory amount to a spouse or common-law partner with respect to the value of the right or interest that the other holds on the family home as well as all other structures and lands on which the other spouse or partner has rights or interests. The regimes adopted by First Nations or in the absence of such rules, the provisions of the Act will apply to both spouses and common-law partners if one of them is a member of a First Nation or an Indian within the meaning of the Act. This law necessarily has implications for the planning and organization of a contractor, member of a First Nation, whose assets, business or other property necessary for its business activities are on an Indian reserve. Given the lack of housing or buildings available according to the needs in the communities, many contractors have their place of business in the family home. However, under the new law and upon a change in the conjugal relationship, as stipulated, the contractor may be forced to quickly move his activities, shops and places of business. Such relocation could affect, temporarily or in the longer term, the continuity of his commitments or services and when the contractor has no other choice but to move his activities outside the reserve, this will have a significant impact on the tax treatment and the unseizability thereof. It is therefore increasingly important that the contractor take the time to plan, structure and organize his activities considering all applicable frameworks and regimes which are continuously evolving. Neashish & Champoux s.e.n.c. 50, boul. Maurice-Bastien, bureau 400 Wendake (Québec) G0A 4V0 Telephone :

10 Entrepreneur s Corner Tourism Column WHEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT RHYMES WITH TRADITIONS AND AUTHENTICITY By Dave Laveau, Executive Director, Quebec Aboriginal Tourism In recent years, the demand for Aboriginal tourism has been growing. From around the world, Aboriginal Quebec has attracted people in search of authenticity, experiencing a thousandyear-old culture and a complete change in scenery. Although Aboriginal tourism is not always capable of meeting this growing demand for discovery, Aboriginal Quebec is nevertheless bursting with diverse activities where culture and traditions await. More than 100 Aboriginal companies are members of Quebec Aboriginal Tourism, from all Nations and from all sectors. Whether they are private companies, cooperatives, non-profit organizations (NPO) or band councils, they all wish to share our distinctive traditional or contemporary culture. According to the Study of the economic impact of Aboriginal tourism 2011, the three priority sectors for the Aboriginal offer are now accommodation, food services and Aboriginal outfitting. These have been three highgrowth sectors since 2002 and have surpassed crafts and cultural activity companies. Food and accommodation services have improved supply and have helped extend the stay of tourists in the regions, which represents a significant leverage effect for the communities. Welcome to our home even at night! Tourists interested in the Aboriginal product are looking to interact, learn and understand this legendary culture. What better way than to provide a comprehensive and authentic experience by exchanging a night in a hotel with a night in a longhouse, a teepee, an Innu tent or a log cabin? Since last summer, the Aboriginal community of Wendake, near Quebec City, increased its offer to meet this demand for experiencing a change of scenery and is now offering a one-night package to stay in the national longhouse. Designed to restore the traditional habitat of the Wendat people, the most curious adventurers can now spend the night under the supervision of the firekeeper. While enjoying Labrador tea and bannock bread, you can listen to traditional myths and legends before you fall asleep peacefully listening to the fire and wind. Also culturally unusual, the Petit Hôtel AGARA: The Repos du Guerrier at Uashat near Sept-Îles plunges you into the heart of the Innu culture. Let yourself be immersed in the arts produced by Ernest Dominique and local artists. In addition to its nine cozy rooms, the hotel offers a fully equipped condo-loft rental for business people who want to combine work and comfort surrounded by nature. Another great way to experience the traditional modernism of Aboriginal tourism. You would prefer experiencing the Atikamekw lifestyle? The Matakan traditional site in the Manawan community, in Lanaudière, immerses you in the authenticity of this nation and offers packages that include overnight stays in a teepee with fir trees and campfires, fishing, bark canoe workshops, interpretation of wildlife and plants, and much more on an island on the enormous Lake Kempt. Sensitive to the needs of the community, the Atikamekw nation of Manawan also strives to ensure its economic, tourism and cultural development in accordance with traditions and the environment. 10

11 Entrepreneur s Corner Of course there is also the Innu community of Essipit, located on the north shore of the St. Lawrence River, which has chosen tourism as one of its main activities of socio-economic development. With a comprehensive tourism offer that includes luxury condos, eight outfitters recognized for their exceptional fishing on the Innu territory, chalets on the mountain slopes and rustic or modern campsites offering you breathtaking panorama of the Saguenay Fjord and the St Lawrence River, the Innu community of Essipit has succeeded in integrating tradition and modern life with vitality to ensure sustained economic development. Despite the interest shown by tourists for Aboriginal tourism, Aboriginal cultural attractions are nevertheless not the main reason for choosing a long-term travel destination, but part of their stay in Quebec. Of the 42% 1 of tourists from outside Quebec who choose to enjoy an Aboriginal experience, many of them are looking for an overall experience which includes an aspect of autochthony tourism. Therefore it appears important to develop different areas of Aboriginal tourism to meet the diverse needs of 816,000 annual visitors who choose to live an authentic experience with the First Nations of Quebec. Origin of tourists who choose Aboriginal tourism % in 2010 Québécois 51% Canadians 8% Americans 15% Europeans 18% First Nations 7% Other 1% Quebec Aboriginal Tourism is recognized by Tourisme Québec as the official spokesperson for Aboriginal tourism in Quebec. To learn more about our organization, visit our website at Quebec Aboriginal Tourism 50, boul. Maurice-Bastien, suite 220 Wendake (QC) G0A 4V info@tourismeautochtone.com Nature Trade and Industry Conference Day THE DIFFERENT ASPECTS TO CONSIDER UPON A BUSINESS TRANSFER On last March 19th, the FNQLEDC hosted a new edition of the Nature Trade and Industry Conference Day under the theme of business transfers; this thematic issue was justified by the fact that presently, close to 50% of aboriginal businesses in Quebec are owned by people aged 54 and over. This conference day aimed mainly at entrepreneurs who wish to start planning the transfer of their business, community economic development officers who very often will have to support these entrepreneurs in their undertakings, and the members of the First Nations of Quebec Business Network. In total, 33 persons took part in this conference day, which had been limited to a maximum capacity of 35 participants. During the course of the day, the specific subject matter was addressed from three different points of view: human resources, available sources of financing, and the fiscal aspects to be taken into account. The first portion of the day was entrusted to Mr. Claude Riverin, of Groupe Trigone. Mr. Riverin talked, among other things, about the importance to plan and identify one s succession, but also to conduct an organizational evaluation. He also presented the different stages leading to the creation of a plan for a transfer of leadership. In the early afternoon session, it was the turn of Mr. Jonathan Banford, who is with the firm of Deloitte, to present the different sources of financing and the different financial products that are available to business owners. Towards the end of the day, Mr. Christian Sénéchal, who is also with the firm of Deloitte, presented the different modalities for business ownership, varying in accordance with the business structures. To consult the PowerPoint presentations used by the speakers, visit 1 Table 1: Origin of toursits 2 Étude 2011 de retombées économiques du tourisme autochtone, page 14 11

12 Next Activities of the FNQLEDC Activity: FNQLEDC Board of Directors Date: June 18, 2014 Place: To be confirmed Clientele: FNQLEDC Administrators Other Relevant Events Activity : Summit on Energy Date : April 1 st, 2014 Place : Hotel Hyatt Regency, Montréal Clientele : Open to all MEmoto CEDOs For any news or success story from your community that you would like to share and which is remotely connected to economic development, do not hesitate to get in touch with Marie-Christine Tremblay either by (mtremblay@cdepnql.org) or by phone at We will be more than happy to share the information with the other CEDOs through our Nikan magazine or by posting it on our Website. Activity : BDC Young Entrepreneur Award Deadline : April 4, 2014 Clientele : Young Entrepreneurs Activity : Objectif Nord Conference Date : April 29, 2014 Place : Château Frontenac, Québec Clientele : Open to all First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Economic Development Commission 250, Place Michel-Laveau, suite 101, Wendake, Quebec G0A 4V0 Tel.: Fax: information@cdepnql.org Internet: Redaction: Marie-Christine Tremblay, CDEPNQL Translation: Traduction Aline Chéné Graphic design: Nancy Pomerleau, Siamois graphisme WARNING ON PROTECTION AND CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION For information on all the news that are of interest to you, to know the dates of the next training sessions or to have many other information, please visit the following website : The information contained in this newsletter is protected in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations. It is therefore prohibited to distribute or to copy any part of this document without the written permission of the FNQLEDC. Legal deposit National Library of Canada, 2004 Legal deposit Bibliothèque nationale du Québec,