Ottawa, ON | October 21, 2025 — Entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful engines of Indigenous prosperity, fueling over $31 billion in annual GDP, creating jobs at twice the national rate, and building wealth that stays rooted in community. With the number of Indigenous entrepreneurs projected to grow by nearly 25 percent in the coming decade, the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) proudly announces the launch of the Early-Stage Entrepreneurship Program (EEP), a national trainer-certification initiative designed to expand opportunity, strengthen ecosystems, and help write the next chapter of Indigenous economic sovereignty.
A Proven Program, Expanded for Greater Impact
EEP builds on a model originally funded by Indigenous Services Canada through the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), which successfully supported Indigenous women entrepreneurs across Canada. Following years of impact and refinement, the program has been revitalized by IPF for early-stage entrepreneurs, updated to reflect the diverse realities of all Indigenous business owners, and scaled for national delivery.
Through a free EEP Trainer Certification, Indigenous business advisors, practitioners, and organizations will gain access to IPF’s full curriculum, Indigenous case studies, and practical teaching tools, equipping them to deliver the program within their own communities, Indigenous Financial Institutions, and economic development agencies.
“This is systems change in action,” said Relay Tangie, Interim Executive Director of the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation. “By empowering the advisors and organizations who walk alongside Indigenous entrepreneurs every day, we are planting seeds of prosperity that will grow across generations. We are proud to take a proven model and expand it nationally, ensuring every community, from women to youth to remote regions, has access to the tools they need to thrive.”
The Difference Capacity Makes
When Ashley Clark, Mohawk founder of Bougie Birch in Ottawa, first sought business support, many programs felt disconnected from her community’s realities. The Early-Stage Entrepreneurship Program changes that by equipping trainers to offer culturally grounded guidance and mentorship rooted in Indigenous experience.
“Being an Indigenous entrepreneur often means forging a path where none existed,” said Clark. “What makes the difference is having people who understand our realities walking alongside us.”
Now Accepting Expressions of Interest
The program webpage is live at indigenousfoundation.ca/eep and now accepting Expressions of Interest from advisors, practitioners, and organizations interested in becoming certified trainers or hosting the program within their institution or community.
About the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation
The Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) is a national organization dedicated to advancing Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic sovereignty. By designing and scaling programs rooted in Indigenous values, IPF builds capacity, strengthens ecosystems, and empowers entrepreneurs to create lasting community wealth. Through digital access, mentorship, training, and targeted support, IPF is especially committed to serving underserved Indigenous entrepreneurs, women, and youth.
Media Contact
Communications Team
Indigenous Prosperity Foundation
info@indigenousfoundation.ca
www.indigenousfoundation.ca