The NIEDB Publishes its Annual Report for 2014-2015 - The National Indigenous Economic Development Board

Ottawa, Ontario – 3 September 2015 – The National Indigenous Economic Development Board (NIEDB) released its 2014-2015 Annual Report today. The Board achieved a number of important milestones this year which have contributed to ensuring that federal policies and programs are well aligned with the goals of fostering the economic growth of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people.

As Aboriginal business and community leaders, we view economic development as a necessary pre-requisite for the wellbeing of both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities alike.

– Chief Clarence Louie, Chair of the NIEDB

Key highlights from the Board’s work in 2014-2015 include:

The completion of our three-year Strategic Plan which focused on addressing barriers to Indigenous economic development, increasing Indigenous participation in major projects, and providing relevant and timely advice to the federal government;
The release of our study and recommendations on: Improving the Economic Success of Urban Additions to Reserves – Achieving Benefits for First Nations and Local Governments;
The release of our report Enhancing Aboriginal Financial Readiness for Major Resource Development Opportunities and presentation of the recommendations to the Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Northern Development;
Board members appeared in front of the Senate Standing Committee for Aboriginal Peoples twice in 2014 to discuss challenges experienced by Indigenous communities in accessing capital, and to discuss innovative financing options;
The Board provided input to the development and renewal of Employment and Social Development Canada’s Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS).

The NIEDB strongly believes that Indigenous people are making economic and social progress and making important contributions to the Canadian economy. It is essential to maintain this momentum by developing policies and programs that will drive economic development and contribute to closing the gap in economic outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada.

The Board’s long-term goal is to ensure that Indigenous people are healthy, well-educated, economically self-sufficient and full participants in the Canadian economy. As the Board gets ready to embark on their next Strategic Plan 2015-2018, their priorities continue to be guided by this overarching goal.

The NIEDB

Established in 1990, the NIEDB is a Governor in Council appointed board mandated to provide strategic policy and program advice to the federal government on Indigenous economic development. Comprised of First Nations, Inuit and Métis community and business leaders from across Canada, the Board plays an important role in helping the federal government develop economic policies and programs that are coordinated, accessible and responsive to the unique needs and circumstances of Indigenous Canadians.