Thursday, March 20 | 12 PM Eastern
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This session sets the foundation for the Creating Space: Opportunities in Indigenous Innovation series by identifying the most pressing challenges in Indigenous innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic participation. Rather than rehashing well-known barriers, this discussion focuses on structural obstacles, workforce shortages, and strategic action areas that must be addressed first.

‍Key Points:

• Understanding the Indigenous innovation system and its weak links
• The workforce crisis: Why industries need Indigenous talent and how to create pathways for participation
• Identifying systemic barriers (e.g., education, access to capital, policy gaps)
• The role of industry, government, and Indigenous organizations in driving change
• Setting the stage for action-based solutions

Thursday, April 10 | 12 PM Eastern

Industries across Canada are facing significant talent gaps, and Indigenous talent presents a key solution to filling these roles. This session explores how sectors like aerospace, green aviation, and emerging tech are evolving and why Indigenous participation is crucial to their future.
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‍Key Points:

• How talent gaps in high-demand sectors create opportunities for Indigenous employment and business growth.
• The aerospace industry as a case study: addressing gaps in aviation, drones, and space technology.
• Real-world examples of Indigenous businesses working with government programs
• Overcoming challenges in collaboration between Indigenous entrepreneurs and mainstream industry
• Scalable solutions: What industries must do to attract, train, and retain Indigenous talent

Thursday, April 24 | 12 PM Eastern

Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping industries worldwide, but how can Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses ensure they aren’t left behind? This session explores how Indigenous innovation, cultural perspectives, and leadership can shape the future of AI, digital transformation, and tech-driven businesses.

‍Key Points:

• Indigenous entrepreneurship as a driver of economic reconciliation
• AI, automation, and Indigenous-led innovation: What’s at stake?
• Barriers to scaling Indigenous businesses
• Best practices from Indigenous-led startups and established businesses
• How new industries can integrate Indigenous leadership and knowledge from the start

Thursday, May 8 | 12 PM Eastern
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Government procurement presents a major opportunity for Indigenous businesses, but the process is often complex, and both buyers and suppliers struggle to connect. Many companies and government agencies want to hire Indigenous vendors but don’t know where to find them, while Indigenous businesses face challenges navigating the procurement process and securing contracts. This session explores how to bridge this gap, making procurement a real driver of Indigenous economic growth.

‍Key Points:

• Understanding the federal 5% Indigenous procurement target
• How Indigenous businesses can access and win government contracts
• Common challenges in the procurement process—and how to overcome them
• Success stories: Indigenous companies thriving in government contracting