First Nation Economic Advancement Conference (FNEAC) – “Building Stronger Together” – signals that Ontario First Nations are “Open For Business” with Canada, North America, and the world

First Nation Economic Advancement Conference (FNEAC) – “Building Stronger Together” – signals that Ontario First Nations are “Open For Business” with Canada, North America, and the world

(Toronto, September 14, 2018) The annual First Nation Economic Advancement Conference (FNEAC) begins this Wednesday, September 19^th with keynote speeches focused on Ontario’s economy and First Nation opportunities in the cannabis industry. Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) will speak on the need to include First Nations in the province’s future growth and prosperity.

The OCC reports that at least $19 billion is needed to repair and expand Ontario’s infrastructure, which will also allow First Nations greater access to the provincial economy: “Northern Ontario requires immediate transportation capacity to facilitate movement of both goods and people to attract investment and diversify the local economy. The vast distances between remote communities and the lack of suitable transportation options limits not only business opportunity but the ability of residents to access health care and education resources.”

With the legalization of cannabis sales less than a month from now, a room has been set aside at FNEAC to deal with cannabis specific topics that will include production, sales, investment, and health and safety. Wiisag, a First Nation company, will host the cannabis sessions. Eric Costen, Director General of Cannabis Legalization and Regulation, will speak on how First Nations must be compliant with regulatory requirements. Interaction between all levels of government and public education will be key to rolling out the legalization of cannabis on October 17 and beyond.

Other speakers include TV host and Earth Sciences Professor David Pearson; Niilo Edwards, Executive Director of the First Nations Major Projects Coalition; Jaimie Lickers and Cam Cameron of Gowlings WLG; and Walid Hejazi, TV personality and International Business Professor. Pre-conference workshops begin on Tuesday. A sold-out trade show at the Toronto Chelsea Hotel on September 19^th and 20^th is open to the public.

FNEAC will kick-off on Tuesday evening with a 6:30 p.m. reception and networking event hosted by Bimaadzwin. Chief Isadore Day will speak about his new company that is focused on advancing nations through economic development and self-determination. Margaret Kenequanash, CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power, will speak on the largest ever First Nation infrastructure project that will bring reliable power and prosperity to northern communities. Partly First Nation- owned Manitoulin Brewing will provide refreshments.

For more information, contact Bryan Hendry at 613-863-1764 or bhendry@bimaadzwin.ca