Workshops & Conferences
Inspiring Connections. Practical Tools.
"I just wanted to extend a heartfelt thank you to the NEDC team for the amazing opportunity to attend the IYE Workshop in Tofino. It was such an inspiring and empowering experience to be surrounded by like-minded peers who, like me, are eager to learn more about entrepreneurship. The supportive environment made it easy for us to connect, exchange ideas, and even explore potential collaborations. Thank you again for making this possible and for all the work you do to support Indigenous entrepreneurs. I'm feeling more motivated than ever and grateful to be part of this community." - Nikki Robertson
Upcoming Events
Join us for hands-on workshops and conferences designed to empower Indigenous business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Learn from Indigenous business experts about entrepreneurship, business planning, financing options, and moreāall in a supportive, community-driven environment.
February
03feb(feb 3)8:00 am05(feb 5)3:00 pmIndigenous Seafood Conference
Event Details
Indigenous Seafood Conference 2026 – *Contact us to join the WAITLIST* The Indigenous Seafood Conference, co-hosted by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC), the Haāoom Fisheries Society
Event Details
Indigenous Seafood Conference 2026 – *Contact us to join the WAITLIST*
The Indigenous Seafood Conference, co-hosted by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC), the Haāoom Fisheries Society (HFS), and the Native Fishing Association (NFA), brings together stakeholders within the seafood industry to foster connection, knowledge sharing, and advocacy. The conference will take place February 3ā5, 2026, at the Tigh-Na-Mara Resort in Parksville. It provides a collaborative space where industry experts and participants can exchange insights, address challenges, and explore opportunities to strengthen local fisheries and food systems.
This yearās program features a skippers-only session, offering a dedicated space to connect, share challenges and successes, and build mentorship relationships. Participants will explore cross-training opportunities and exchange practical strategies for developing successful, sustainable, and community-focused operations, including key aspects of business and vessel management.
The broader conference program will cover topics identified through participant feedback, including regulations and policy updates, sustainability and environmental stewardship, marketing and selling catch, strengthening local food systems, certifications, infrastructure for bringing fish to market, and fishing access. The full agenda is being finalized and will be made available once confirmed.
There is no cost for Indigenous participants to attend this conference. Travel reimbursements, accommodations, and meals will be provided.
If you have any questions about this event or require more information, please contact Susan Lewis at Susan@lewissears.com or 250-240-5943
Time
February 3, 2026 8:00 am - February 5, 2026 3:00 pm(GMT-08:00)
RSVP to This Event
RSVPing is closed at this time.
Speakers for this event
-
Alan Thompson
President
St. Jean's Cannery
-
Alli Cheng
Senior Manager, Tax Services
Doane Grant Thornton LLP
-
Andrew Boogards
Business Services Officer
Nuu-Chah-Nulth Economic Development Corporation
-
Andy Olson
CEO/Founder
Indigenous Fishers First
-
Andy Webster
Coastal Fisher & Fisheries Advocate
-
Archie Little
Chair, Board of Directors
Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC)
-
Arthur Black
Owner
Marlson Industries
-
Arthur Black Sr.
Owner
Marlson Industries
-
Ash Peters
Seafood Manager
Thrifty's Foods, Safeway & Sobeys West
-
Bruce Williams
Facilitator
Spark Strategic Group
-
Chris Hamblin
Meat Director
Country Grocer
-
Christine Hunt
Advocate
-
Clayton Betker
Service Manager - ABM Match
CELT Industries
-
Cliff Atleo
Elder Advisor
First Nations Health Council
-
Connie Crocker
First Nations Liaison
Kelp Rescue Initiative
-
Craig Cavin
Operations Director South Island | Ownership
Country Grocer
-
d'Art Newton
Partner - ABM Match
Wisdom Circle Collective
-
Daphane Nelson
CFE Manager
Kwakiutl Nation Development Corporation
-
Derek Lamb
Partner - ABM Match
Chan Nowosad Boates
-
Desiree Baker
Owner - ABM Match
REV Consulting
-
Elder Matias
Partner - ABM Match
Mighty Raven Technology
-
Errol Sam
Ahousaht Nation Fisher & Community Leader
Ahousaht First Nation
-
Fiona MacRaild
Executive Director
Native Fishing Association (NFA)
-
Hudson Savey
Fisher
Ha'oom Fisheries Society
-
Ian Tostenson
President & CEO
BC Restaurant and Foodservices Association
-
James LaFlamme
Fisheries Manager
Tseshaht First Nation
-
Jamie Podmorow
Business Development Manager - ABM Match
CanScribe College
-
Jennifer Gallic
Business Development Officer
NEDC
-
Jennifer Gidora
Operations Manager
Finest At Sea Ocean Products
-
Joey Ewing
Vice President and General Manager
Finest At Sea
-
Katrin Harry
Managing Partner
Advanced Business Match (ABM)
-
Kayla Savey
Business Manager
Ha'oom Fisheries Society
-
Lauren Dean
Trade and Stewardship Officer
Ha'oom Fisheries Society
-
Les Sam
Owner
Les Sam Construction
-
Lesley France
Senior Manager, Assurance Services
Doane Grant Thornton LLP
-
Marc Peeler
Owner
Confidence Fishing Company
-
Mark J. Duiven
Executive Director
National Indigenous Fisheries Institute
-
Mark Lewis
Board Chair
Native Fishing Association
-
Nicole Patterson
Seafood Operations Manager
Country Grocer
-
Rosemary Georgeson
Artist/Film Maker/Storyteller
-
Ryan Cutler
Project Manager
Cando
-
Shaelynne Bood
Confidence Fishing Company
-
Stevie Dennis
Owner
Naas Foods
-
Wally Samuel
Co-Chair, Board of Directors
Ha'oom Fisheries Society
-
Wayne Sparrow
Chief
Musqueam Indian Band
-
William Gladstone Sr.
King Charles III Coronation Medal Recipient
Schedule
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- February 3, 2026
- 8:00amNative Fishing Association: Skippers Session8:00am - 4:30pmSpeakersAlli ChengChief Brent EdwardsClayton BetkerCraig FisztnerFiona MacRaildLesley FranceMark Lewis
- 5:30pmDoors Open to the Ballroom for Welcome Dinner5:30pm - 8:00pmSpeakersArchie LittleCliff AtleoWally SamuelWilliam Gladstone Sr.
- February 4, 2026
- 8:00amBreakfast Buffet Opens8:00am - 8:30am
- 9:00amOpening Remarks9:00am - 9:10amSpeakersMark Lewis
- 9:15amGenerations on the Water9:15am - 10:15amSpeakersChristine HuntMarc PeelerShaelynne Bood
- 10:15amBreak10:15am - 10:30am
- 10:30amTools, Technology & Innovation in Indigenous Fishing10:30am - 12:00pmSpeakersAndy OlsonArthur BlackMark J. DuivenRyan Cutler
- 12:00pmLunch12:00pm - 1:00pm
- 1:00pmSeafood in the Marketplace: Retail & Manufacturing1:00pm - 2:15pmSpeakersAlan ThompsonAsh PetersChris HamblinCraig CavinIan TostensonJennifer GidoraNicole Patterson
- 2:15pmBreak2:15pm - 2:30pm
- 2:30pmHonoring the Contributions of Women in the Fishing Industry2:30pm - 3:30pmSpeakersConnie CrockerKayla SaveyLauren DeanRosemary GeorgesonShaelynne Bood
- 3:30pmAdvanced Business Match (ABM)3:30pm - 5:30pmSpeakersAndrew BoogardsClayton BetkerDerek LambDesiree BakerElder MatiasJamie PodmorowKatrin Harry
- February 5, 2026
- 8:00amBreakfast Buffet Opens8:00am - 8:30am
- 9:00amWelcome and Day 2 Recap9:00am - 9:10amSpeakersBruce Williams
- 9:10amFrom Agreements to Action: Navigating Indigenous Seafood Export9:10am - 10:15amSpeakersJoey EwingStephen DennisWayne Sparrow
- 10:15amBreak10:15am - 10:30am
- 10:30amOpportunties for Growth & Partnership10:30am - 12:00pmSpeakersDaphane NelsonFiona MacRaildJames LaFlammeJennifer GallicLauren Dean
- 12:00pmLunch12:00pm - 1:00pm
- 1:00pmStrategies for Success/Adding Value to Your Catch1:00pm - 2:30pmSpeakersAndy WebsterErrol SamHudson SaveyLes Sam
- 2:30pmClosing Remarks2:30pm - 2:45pmSpeakersMark LewisWally Samuel
- 3:00pmConference Ends3:00pm - 3:00pmSpeakersBruce Williams
Previous Events
Here are the events we've held in the past year
March 2025
Event Details
Calling all Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs in Victoria!Join us for a transformative 2-day workshop created to help you elevate your business. Whether you’re just starting to
Event Details
Calling all Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs in Victoria!
Join us for a transformative 2-day workshop created to help you elevate your business. Whether you’re just starting to plan or looking for the tools to expand, these sessions are tailored to meet your needs.
Topics include:
Business Planning: this is essential no matter what stage of business you are in. A business plan explains your business and provides a roadmap of where your business is going ā in business language of course! This session will cover the main sections of a business plan and business planning tips.
Marketing Basics: sounds like an oxymoron as there is nothing basic about marketing! Nonetheless, this workshop will cover basic marketing including strategies and techniques to promote products and services to potential customers.
Cash Flow: weāve all heard the expression that cash is king! Well, itās true. Every business owner knows that! Yet cash flow challenges are still a common reason that businesses get in trouble. Join us to learn how to avoid common pitfalls and how to better manage cash flowing through your business.
Budgeting: crucial for maintaining financial health and ensuring growth. This workshop will go over the basics of budgeting for a business. By establishing and sticking to a solid budget, businesses can ensure they remain profitable and grow sustainably.
Time
March 25, 2025 - March 26, 2025 (All Day)(GMT-07:00)
RSVP to This Event
RSVPing is closed at this time.
Organizer
Victoria
463 Belleville StThe hotel Grand PacificVictoria
Speakers for this event
-
Caledonia Glendale
Trainer & Consultant
Inisa Consulting & Training Services
Event Details
Calling all Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs!Join us for a transformative 2-day workshop created to help you elevate your business. Whether you’re just starting to plan or
Event Details
Calling all Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs!
Join us for a transformative 2-day workshop created to help you elevate your business. Whether you’re just starting to plan or looking for the tools to expand, these sessions are tailored to meet your needs.
Topics include:
Business Planning: this is essential no matter what stage of business you are in. A business plan explains your business and provides a roadmap of where your business is going ā in business language of course! This session will cover the main sections of a business plan and business planning tips.
Marketing Basics: sounds like an oxymoron as there is nothing basic about marketing! Nonetheless, this workshop will cover basic marketing including strategies and techniques to promote products and services to potential customers.
Cash Flow: weāve all heard the expression that cash is king! Well, itās true. Every business owner knows that! Yet cash flow challenges are still a common reason that businesses get in trouble. Join us to learn how to avoid common pitfalls and how to better manage cash flowing through your business.
Budgeting: crucial for maintaining financial health and ensuring growth. This workshop will go over the basics of budgeting for a business. By establishing and sticking to a solid budget, businesses can ensure they remain profitable and grow sustainably.
Time
March 27, 2025 - March 28, 2025 (All Day)(GMT-07:00)
RSVP to This Event
RSVPing is closed at this time.
Organizer
Duncan
6474 Trans Canada HighwayBest Western Cowichan Valley InnDuncan
Speakers for this event
-
Caledonia Glendale
Trainer & Consultant
Inisa Consulting & Training Services
April 2025
23apr9:00 am12:00 pmAI Applications WorkshopMastering Everyday AI with Trevor Bruintjes
Event Details
Mastering Everyday AI with Trevor Bruintjes Event Description:Discover how to harness the power of artificial intelligence in your
Event Details
Mastering Everyday AI with Trevor Bruintjes
Event Description:
Discover how to harness the power of artificial intelligence in your personal life and business at this workshop led by AI strategist Trevor Bruintjes. Learn practical tools and strategies to save time, boost efficiency, and increase profitability.
What Youāll Learn
This session will give you practical, hands-on knowledge you can use immediately:
- What generative AI is and why it matters
- How to use prompts that get great results
- Real examples of AI tools in action (writing, images, planning, analysis, more)
- How to separate the hype from what actually helps
- Key doās and donāts when working with AI
- Simple steps to start using AI in your work or personal lifeA framework to āSee it, Plan it, Use itā so AI becomes useful, not overwhelming
Ā Who Should Attend
This is for anyone ready to move from curiosity to confidence with AI:
- New usersĀ who want a clear, jargon-free introduction to AI
- Busy professionalsĀ who want to save time and get more done
- Business owners or team leadersĀ looking for practical ways to integrate AI
- Seasoned usersĀ who want to sharpen their prompting skills and use AI more strategically
- Anyone feeling left behindĀ and ready to catch up, fast
Whether youāre brand new or already dabbling with AI, youāll leave this session with clarity, direction, and tools you can use right away!
Time
April 23, 2025 9:00 am - 12:00 pm(GMT-07:00)
Organizer
Speakers for this event
-
Trevor Bruintjes
AI Specialist & Business Consultant
Peaks and Valleys AI Strategies
June 2025
09junAll Day10IYE Tofino Workshop
Time
June 9, 2025 - June 10, 2025 (All Day)(GMT-07:00)
Speakers for this event
-
Alissa Assu
Entrepreneur & Facilitator
11junAll Day12IWE Tofino Workshop
Time
June 11, 2025 - June 12, 2025 (All Day)(GMT-07:00)
Speakers for this event
-
Caledonia Glendale
Trainer & Consultant
Inisa Consulting & Training Services
September 2025
14sep(sep 14)3:00 pm16(sep 16)4:00 pmSeeds to SovereigntyBC Indigenous Cannabis Conference
Event Details
Seeds to Sovereignty: BC Indigenous Cannabis Conference Empowering Indigenous Leadership in Cannabis Join us at Seeds to Sovereignty ā a powerful exploration of the past, present, and future of Indigenous cannabis
Event Details
Seeds to Sovereignty: BC Indigenous Cannabis Conference
Empowering Indigenous Leadership in Cannabis
Join us at Seeds to Sovereignty ā a powerful exploration of the past, present, and future of Indigenous cannabis entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and community innovation.
Co-hosted by the Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC) and the New Relationship Trust (NRT), this unique event brings together Indigenous leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, health professionals, and community advocates for three powerful days of learning, networking, and collaboration.
What to Expect:
- Thought-Provoking Presentations & Panels
Engage with industry experts, entrepreneurs, and changemakers as they share insights on cannabis policy, sustainable business practices, and pathways to sovereignty. - Cannabis Farm Tours
Experience local cannabis operations up close and learn about sustainable cultivation practices through guided farm tours with round-trip transportation provided. - Networking Opportunities
Build meaningful connections with Indigenous entrepreneurs, allies, and leaders driving change across BC and beyond.
Keynote Speaker: Manjit Minhas
We are thrilled to welcome Manjit Minhas, renowned entrepreneur and star of Dragonās Den, as our keynote speaker. From a $10,000 startup to a global empire of 90+ brands, Manjitās story is a testament to bold vision and entrepreneurial resilience.
Conference Details:
Dates: September 14|16, 2025
Location: Coast Bastion Hotel in Nanaimo
General Registration: $499
(Includes 2 nightsā accommodation, all meals, speaker sessions, workshops, and farm tour transportation.)
Free for Indigenous participants and representatives!
Be Part of the Movement
Seeds to Sovereignty is more than a conference ā itās a collaborative space to uplift Indigenous voices, foster economic development, and build a shared vision for the future of cannabis in our communities.
Stay Connected
š§ Email: mary@nedc.info
š Phone: 250-735-8871
Time
September 14, 2025 3:00 pm - September 16, 2025 4:00 pm(GMT-07:00)
Organizer
Coast Bastion Hotel | Nanaimo, BC
Speakers for this event
-
Alannah Davis
CEO
Dabble Cannabis
-
Albert Eppinga
Founder
BC CANN
-
Chelsea Strang
Cannabis Nurse Consultant
The Holistic Cannabis Nurse
-
Chief Don Tom
Vice-President
Union of BC Indian Chiefs
-
Daniel Penny
Chief Operating Officer
Sugar Cane Cannabis
-
David Brown
Founder
StratCann
-
David Pellmann
Director General of the Licensing and Medical Access Directorate
Health Canada
-
Dr. Michelle Corfield
Founder
BC CANN
-
Heber Eppinga
Operations Specialist
BC CANN
-
Ian Simpson
Chief Executive Officer
Petroglyph Development Group
-
Jennifer Gallic
Business Development Officer
NEDC
-
Jennifer MacMillan
Director of Indigenous Government Relations
BC Cannabis Secretariat
-
Manjit Minhas
Co-founder & Chief Excecutive Officer
Minhas Breweries, Distilleries and Wineries
-
Marc Storms
BC Indigenous Cannabis Fund Navigator
New Relationship Trust (NRT)
-
Merle Alexander
Principal
Miller Titerle + Company
-
Philippe Lucas
Director of Research and Safe Access
Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies
-
Ron Arcos
Business Development Officer
Nuu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC)
-
Sarah Petrescu
Director of Policy
BC Cannabis Secretariat
-
Sherri Brown
Medical Cannabis Formulator
Sherri Brown Skin Care
-
Vinay Neermul
Senior Program Officer
Health Canada
Schedule
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- September 14, 2025
- 3:00pmHotel Check-In & Registration3:00pm - 4:30pm
- 4:30pmBallroom Opens for Dinner4:30pm - 7:00pm
- September 15, 2025
- 8:00amBreakfast Buffet Opens8:00am - 8:30am
- 8:30amWelcome & Cannabis Industry Scorecard8:30am - 9:00amSpeakersDr. Michelle Corfield
- 9:00amGrowing Opportunities: The Indigenous Cannabis Fund9:00am - 9:30amSpeakersMarc Storms
- 9:30amGetting Started in the Cannabis Industry9:30am - 10:00amSpeakersIan SimpsonRon Arcos
- 10:00amCoffee Break10:00am - 10:15am
- 10:15amFunding, Legalities, and Regulation Presentations10:15am - 11:15amSpeakersChief Don TomJennifer GallicMerle Alexander
- 11:15amHealth Canada: Navigating the Federal Cannabis Licensing Process11:15am - 12:00pmSpeakersDavid PellmannVinay Neermul
- 12:00pmLunch12:00pm - 1:00pm
- 1:00pmMedical Cannabis in Canada: Exploring Its Past, Present, and Future1:00pm - 2:00pmSpeakersChelsea StrangPhilippe LucasSherri Brown
- 2:00pmBC's Cannabis Sector and Supports for Indigenous Governements and Businesses2:00pm - 2:30pmSpeakersJennifer MacMillanSarah Petrescu
- 2:30pmCoffee Break2:30pm - 2:45pm
- 2:45pmLooking Ahead: Future Trends & Opportunities in the Cannabis Sector2:45pm - 4:00pmSpeakersAlannah DavisAlbert EppingaDaniel PennyHeber Eppinga
- 4:30pmNetworking Reception4:30pm - 6:00pm
- September 16, 2025
- 8:00amBreakfast & Farm Tour8:00am - 1:30pm
Enjoy the breakfast buffet and then meet us in the lobby to board the tour bus for visits to three thriving Indigenous-owned cannabis businesses: Dabble Cannabis, BC CANN, and Coast Salish Canna.
The bus will leave promptly at 9:00 am, so please be on time. Be sure to pick up your bagged lunch at the breakfast buffet before boarding.
We expect to return to the hotel around 1:30 pm, though timing may vary depending on traffic and other factors.
October 2025
14oct(oct 14)12:00 pm17(oct 17)4:00 pmIYE Tofino Workshop
Time
October 14, 2025 12:00 pm - October 17, 2025 4:00 pm(GMT-07:00)
Speakers for this event
-
Alissa Assu
Entrepreneur & Facilitator
Thriving Nations Conference
Join us to Share Ideas and Network