Improving Job Opportunities and Skills Training for Aboriginal People

More than 90 First Nation communities and Aboriginal organizations received support this year to enhance skills training and economic development.

The New Relationship Fund provided $6.3 million for projects such as:

• Aboriginal business start-ups and expansions

• Regional economic coordinators

• Technical training for community staff about forestry, mining and other sectors

• Assistance in securing financing for business development activities.

For example, the Whitesand First Nation used its funding to develop a business plan to effectively engage in energy, mining and forestry initiatives. This is leading to meaningful and sustainable employment through the creation of a sawmill, pellet facility and cogeneration plant. The community is now an active participant in new forestry tenure and management initiatives and has acquired a road maintenance contract.