A First Nation Economic Development Model

Authors

  • Carole Delion

Abstract

Achieving balance is not an easy task for First Nations, as there are numerous obstacles to overcome by manoeuvring through the legislative processes at the federal and provincial jurisdictional levels.  The goal of this paper is to explore how to grow a sustainable economic development model within a First Nation, using the example of Aamjiwnaang First Nation, a small community that is located in southern Ontario. It will document the development and evolution of Aamjiwnaang’s economic development model, named A Healthy Tree, which is founded on Elder and Aamjiwnaang Chief Gerald Maness, Sr.’s concept of the community as a tree.  The paper will demonstrate the steps taken and the best practices used for turning obstacles into opportunities.  Finally, it will address a major issue facing the Aamjiwnaang Band Council:  how it can proceed when the Head Lease expires in 2025.

Keywords: First Nations, communities, economic development, strategic planning, industrial parks

Author Biography

Carole Delion

Carole Delion has been employed by Aamjiwnaang the First Nation for 27 years, the past 13 years as the Business Development Officer promoting the economic, business development, working with aboriginal entrepreneurs, and assisting in the management of the Chippewa Industrial park. She serves as the Secretary/Treasurer to Aamjiwnaang’s owned corporations. She is a member of the Aamjiwnaang management team that has developed two large renewable energy wind partnerships. She is member of Ontario First Nation Economic Developer Association (OFNEDA), Council for Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO) and a PAED graduate.  She has received her Economic Development Program certificate at the University of Waterloo. She has been married for 37 years and is a proud parent, and grandparent of two grandchildren Aiden and Ella!

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Published

2017-02-06

Issue

Vol. 16

Section

Articles