Building Tomorrow’s Leaders:

4 Impactful Programs for Indigenous and Youth Entrepreneurs in Canada

Canada is home to a variety of programs designed to empower Indigenous and youth entrepreneurs. These initiatives not only foster entrepreneurial skills but also contribute significantly to the local economy and community development.

By providing practical knowledge, mentorship, and hands-on experience, these camps and programs enable participants to build strong foundations for their entrepreneurial journeys. Explore four standout initiatives that are making a significant impact below:

1. Bears’ Lair Dream Camps

The Bears’ Lair Dream Camps offer an immersive, hands-on learning experience for Indigenous youth aged 13 to 18. Set on Vancouver Island and showcased as a reality TV series, this three-day camp provides a unique opportunity for young participants to develop fundamental business skills.

The camp includes guest speakers, mentors, and practical activities such as creating a company, designing logos, and developing marketing plans. Participants gain insights into the business world while staying connected to Indigenous values and protocols. This program is instrumental in preparing Indigenous youth for future entrepreneurial endeavors, fostering a strong sense of community and cultural identity.

Lana Wilhelm, Indigenous Relations Director at Paper Excellence Canada who participated as a coach in three- day camp said, “Our focus is on Indigenous youth and how they will represent future businesses in British Columbia. We value the opportunity to foster their business training in ways like this—they are led by an accomplished team.”

Program Highlights

Participants: Indigenous youth aged 13 to 18

Location: Vancouver Island

Activities:

  • Company creation
  • Logo design
  • Marketing plan development

Support: Paper Excellence, guest speakers and mentors

Focus: Integrating Indigenous values and protocols into successful business practices

2. “My Way” Youth Entrepreneurship Camp

The “My Way” Youth Entrepreneurship Camp is designed to cultivate entrepreneurial skills among Indigenous youth aged 18 to 35 from the Mashteuiatsh community. Also supported by Resolute Forest Products and SDEI, this camp focuses on teaching essential business concepts and practical skills.

Through two-day monthly sessions, participants learn about the business model canvas, financing, and project presentation. The camp’s structure allows for comprehensive skill development over six phases, culminating in participants presenting their projects to a jury for evaluation and potential support.

This program is crucial for nurturing the next generation of Indigenous entrepreneurs, equipping them with the tools needed for success in the business world.

Program Highlights

Participants: Indigenous youth aged 18 to 35 from the Mashteuiatsh community

Support: Backed by Resolute Forest Products and SDEI

Focus Areas:

  • Business model canvas
  • Financing strategies
  • Project presentation skills

Structure: Two-day sessions held monthly, divided into six phases

Program Outcome: Participants present their projects to a jury, with winning projects receiving further support

The “My Way” Youth Entrepreneurship Camp is a testament to the power of targeted support and structured training, paving the way for the next generation of Indigenous business leaders.

3. Tapuetatish “Believe in Yourself” Women’s Entrepreneurship Camp

The Tapuetatish “Believe in Yourself” Women’s Entrepreneurship Camp is a transformative program dedicated to fostering entrepreneurial skills among Indigenous women. Supported by Resolute Forest Products, this camp has been a cornerstone of entrepreneurial development for over five years. It provides a unique platform for women aged 36 and older from the Mashteuiatsh community to gain invaluable business skills and confidence.

Participants acquire essential entrepreneurial skills, including business planning, financial management, and effective communication. The program fosters a culture of self-belief and economic independence, empowering women to pursue their business dreams. By supporting Indigenous women entrepreneurs, this program contributes to the economic and social development of the Mashteuiatsh community.

Program Highlights

History: Running for over five years

Participants: Indigenous women aged 36 and older from the Mashteuiatsh community

Support: Backed by Resolute Forest Products and Quebec’s Société de Développement Économique Ilnu de Mashteuiatsh (SDEI)

Focus Areas:

  • Business model canvas
  • Financing strategies
  • Project presentation skills

Structure: Two-day sessions held monthly, divided into six phases

Program Outcome: Participants present their projects to a jury, with winning projects receiving further support

Rémi Néron, Human Resources Manager at the Saint-Félicien pulp mill, who has been involved with the camp since its inception as a representative of Resolute on the jury, has said: “What impresses me most is the progress by these future entrepreneurs. The camps give the participants the opportunity to develop all kinds of skills that are useful not only for entrepreneurship but also in their daily lives. Over the years, many have successfully started up their projects, while others have taken a new direction in their lives by finding their first job, returning to the job market or going back to school. When you watch the participants present their projects, you truly experience all their emotions: pride, a desire to excel, courage and determination.”

The Tapuetatish “Believe in Yourself” Women’s Entrepreneurship Camp is a shining example of how targeted support and structured training can lead to meaningful change, both for individuals and their communities.

4. SuitUp Career Readiness Program

The SuitUp Career Readiness Program, hosted in collaboration with Domtar, provides high school students with experiential learning opportunities to develop career readiness and entrepreneurial skills. During this day-long event, students engage in various aspects of product development, marketing, and business strategy. The program includes a competition where students pitch their ideas to a panel of judges.

This initiative not only equips students with real-world business skills but also fosters innovation, teamwork, and leadership. The SuitUp program is essential for preparing the next generation of entrepreneurs, empowering them to pursue their passions and achieve success in their careers.

Program Highlights

Participants: High school students

Location: Ashdown mill in Arkansas

Activities:

  • Product development
  • Manufacturing and distribution planning
  • Business strategy competition

Support: Collaboration with Domtar and SuitUp

Focus: Career readiness and entrepreneurial skill development

Our Commitment to Indigenous and Youth Programs

Paper Excellence Canada, Domtar and Resolute Forest Products are dedicated to empowering Indigenous youth through various entrepreneurial programs. By fostering business skills and providing opportunities for Indigenous youth, women, and students, we aim to contribute to their long-term success and cultural preservation.

Our support for these initiatives not only benefits the participants but also ensures a prosperous and sustainable future for all. Investing in these Indigenous and youth programs means investing in the future leaders of our society.