News

Stay Connected

Explore the latest updates, success stories, and upcoming workshops, and conferences all in one place.

Building a Legacy: Ellis Excavating

Cival Construction & Excavating | Nanaimo, BC

Rob Ellis, owner of Ellis Excavating, has built his business on hard work, strong relationships, and a commitment to quality. A proud member of the Métis …

June 24, 2026
Alison Evans Takes Flight at Connect Money Impact

Nanaimo, BC — “By investing in Indigenous pilot training and sustainable aviation innovation, we can help build a future where Indigenous people are not …

June 19, 2026
Remembering Darleen Watts: A Legacy of Leadership, Service, and Community

Port Alberni, B.C – It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Darleen Watts, former Chair of the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development …

June 17, 2026
Giving Back to Community: NEDC’s Alex Masso Supports Local Cancer Warriors

Port Alberni, BC — At NEDC, we know that strong economies are built by strong communities, and strong communities are built by people who invest in others. …

Mocean Yoga: Coming Home to Purpose

Health and Fitness | Courtenay, BC

Born and raised in the Comox Valley, Susie Newson, Founder of Mocean Yoga, has always felt a deep connection to the ocean, movement, and community. …

June 5, 2026
Driving Access Forward – Routes Driving Academy

Nanaimo, B.C. – For Hupacasath entrepreneur Randi-Leigh Macnutt, teaching people how to drive is about much more than earning a licence, it’s …

Thunderbird Eats: Bringing Innovation and Tradition Together

Food & Drink | Port Alberni, BC

Thunderbird Eats was born from a shared love of candy between mother-daughter team Sherri Cook of Huu-ay-aht First Nation and Saryta Dick, who is from both …

A Modern Fairy Tale – Briar Rose Beauty

Aesthetic & Personal Care | Comox, BC

For Sarah Merrill, founder of Briar Rose, beauty has always been about more than appearance, it’s about confidence, connection, and empowerment. Sarah, …

May 25, 2026
Empowering Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs: IWE Workshop in Duncan, BC

Duncan, B.C. – An incredible two-day IWE Workshop in Duncan brought together Indigenous women entrepreneurs, facilitators, and community partners for …

May 21, 2026
NEDC Celebrates Andrea Sanders as Recipient of the 2026 Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Award

Gatineau, Quebec – NEDC is proud to announce that Andrea Sanders, owner of Lagoon Prenatal, has been recognized with the 2026 Indigenous Youth …

Where Care Becomes Artistry – Vi Beautify Studio

Bridal Beauty | Nanaimo, BC

Ashley Porter is the founder and owner of Vi Beautify Studio and is Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) from Akwesasne. She moved to Nanaimo before starting school and …

May 19, 2026
Honouring the Strength of Indigenous Women in Our Communities

Honouring the Strength of Indigenous Women in Our Communities As we launch our new signage package for the Indigenous Women Entrepreneur Program (IWE), we …

May 15, 2026
Confidence Fishing Company Receives NACCA Business of the Year Award

Gatineau, Quebec — Congratulations to our client, Marc Peeler and Confidence Fishing Company, on receiving the NACCA Business of the Year Award. We are …

May 12, 2026
Snuneymuxw First Nation and Petroglyph Mark Major Milestone with Cannabis Licensing Approval

Nanaimo, B.C – Receiving cannabis licensing marks a major milestone for the Snuneymuxw First Nation and Petroglyph, representing the culmination of …

April 27, 2026
Hardy Buoys Smoked Fish Transitions to Indigenous Ownership in Port Hardy

Port Hardy, B.C. — Hardy Buoys Smoked Fish Inc., a long-standing coastal seafood processor and retailer, has officially transitioned to Indigenous …

Confidence on the Coast – The Marc Peeler Story

Construction, Fishing | Port Hardy, BC

A proud member of the Kwakiutl First Nation and a fourth-generation fisherman, Marc Peeler carries forward a legacy deeply rooted in family, tradition, and …