Indigenous Partnerships Key to Canada's Economic Future

Canada's most overlooked economic opportunity might just be the key to a more resilient future.

A groundbreaking Deloitte report shows that Indigenous economic partnerships are poised to become one of Canada's strongest growth drivers. Indigenous GDP has already surged from $37.6 billion to $63.7 billion between 2013 and 2023, nearly doubling in just ten years.

"Indigenous peoples being included in economic growth and new projects is going to be part of the solution and not an additional cost," said Dean Janvier, partner at Deloitte Canada and member of the Cold Lake First Nations. "In fact, it will be a net benefit to Canada."

The research, conducted with 12 nationally recognized Indigenous business leaders and three Indigenous-owned business entities, found that First Nations communities are already playing vital roles in fishing, forestry, mining, and oil and gas. Companies are discovering that engaging Indigenous partners early in projects leads to smoother approvals, lower costs, and increased productivity.

The secret ingredient? Respect and genuine relationship-building.

"It starts with respect," Janvier explained. "Showing up, listening, and taking time to establish that familiarity becomes the basis of trust in the relationship going forward."

The Ripple Effect

The impact extends far beyond Canada's borders. Indigenous communities maintain international relationships that span generations, connections that could open doors for Canadian trade in global markets.

When companies bridge Indigenous worldviews into decision-making, they gain what the report calls "a strategic international advantage." This approach aligns with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to apply lessons learned and avoid repeating past mistakes.

Barriers still exist, including geographic isolation for some communities and resistance to change from those preferring old ways of doing business. However, closing these gaps could nearly double the Indigenous economy's scale.

The path forward involves embedding Indigenous partnership, consent, and equity participation into core economic strategies. As Canada reshapes its global trade relationships and focuses on nation-building projects, Indigenous participation isn't just ethical—it's essential for prosperity.

The message is clear: Canada's economic future shines brightest when everyone has a seat at the table.