22 Oct Indigenous Prosperity Centre

Indigenous Prosperity Centre- A Path Toward Indigenous Economic Reconciliation 

Introduction 

The South Island Prosperity Partnership (SIPP), established in 2016, is an economic development alliance located in Victoria, British Columbia, bringing together local governments, nonprofits, universities, and First Nations governments. SIPP works to shape the regional economy in a sustainable and inclusive way, with a particular focus on building economic reconciliation and Indigenous prosperity. The partnership plays a key role in promoting regional Indigenous economic development and bridging gaps in workforce participation, education, and economic opportunity for Indigenous Nations. 

Origins and Vision of the Indigenous Prosperity Centre 

Christina Clarke, an active leader in SIPP, shared that the Indigenous Prosperity Centre (IPC) emerged in response to gaps identified during the COVID-19 pandemic. When SIPP convened sector committees to explore ways to build a resilient economy post-pandemic, the Indigenous Economies Committee highlighted specific needs of South Island Nations and Indigenous businesses. The recommendations pointed to the necessity of having a dedicated hub to support Indigenous economic development, leading to the creation of the IPC. 

This center is both part of SIPP and operates with independence, guided by an Indigenous Advisory Board that ensures cultural integrity and prioritizes long-term Indigenous economic success. As Clarke emphasizes, this initiative supports Call to Action #92 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission—a call that encourages corporate Canada to engage in meaningful reconciliation and equity for Indigenous communities. 

“It felt most appropriate not to position this as an Indigenous organization but as a corporate response with Indigenous participation.” — Christina Clarke, Executive Director 

 Focus Areas for Indigenous Economic Growth 

A significant focus area for IPC is workforce development. Clarke shared that many South Island Nations are eager to ensure that employment opportunities align with their economic development goals. For example, when she worked for the Songhees Nation, a key priority was hiring Nation members and building pathways for Indigenous people to take up leadership roles in their own communities. 

The Indigenous Prosperity Centre is also working to strengthen connections between Indigenous youth and employment sectors, such as marine stewardship and the broader Blue Economy. By organizing initiatives like the Blue Economy Day Camp, youth are introduced to career opportunities in sectors like ocean science, Coast Guard operations, and Indigenous tourism, offering them firsthand experience and education pathways in these fields. 

Indigenous Business and Economic Reconciliation 

A core part of the IPC’s success lies in its promotion of Indigenous businesses. The Indigenous Prosperity Center is highlighting the importance of amplifying Indigenous leadership and ensuring that companies and governments are not merely focusing on offering minimum wage jobs. Instead, the IPC advocates for creating pathways to meaningful, sustainable careers for Indigenous people. 

Additionally, the partnership with organizations across the city to build an Indigenous Business Directory has proven effective in supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs. This directory offers a platform for Indigenous businesses to connect with broader markets and hosts Indigenous entrepreneur workshops, networking events, and procurement initiatives to facilitate these opportunities. 

In terms of procurement, Clarke proudly mentioned that 63% of SIPP’s spending on goods and services goes to Indigenous businesses, a significant milestone towards achieving true economic reconciliation. 

Overcoming Challenges in Indigenous Economic Development 

Despite these successes, SIPP acknowledges the ongoing challenges in advancing Indigenous economic reconciliation. Engagement fatigue is a significant issue, as many First Nation administrations are overburdened and unable to respond to every inquiry or opportunity. Furthermore, Clarke notes that the fear of making mistakes or not fully understanding Indigenous needs often paralyzes organizations from taking meaningful action. 

To overcome these challenges, the IPC encourages a try-and-learn approach. By fostering long-term relationships, promoting dialogue, and focusing on continuous improvement, SIPP is helping build a model of Indigenous economic development that others can follow. Indigenous entrepreneurs must be supported to move beyond a fear of failure and embrace learning as part of the reconciliation process. 

“Don’t be afraid to try. Open your heart, open your mind, and keep working until we get it right.” — Christina Clarke 

Looking Ahead: Youth Leadership and the $100 Billion Vision 

Looking to the future, the Indigenous Prosperity Center is stressing the importance of youth leadership in shaping the Indigenous economy. Indigenous Prosperity Center is organizing a regional youth conference to help Indigenous youth dream big and see themselves as central figures in economic development. Through mentoring young Indigenous leaders like Tarrin and Isiah, the IPC aims to build a strong foundation for the next generation. 

Clark points out Indigenous entrepreneurship is thriving, with Indigenous women being the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in Canada. The IPC continues to focus on supporting Indigenous businesses through education, mentorship, and partnership opportunities. 

This work is aligned with the broader $100 Billion Indigenous Economy goal championed by the Indigenomics Institute. By fostering Indigenous economic empowerment, the IPC is playing a vital role in reshaping the regional economy and contributing to national reconciliation efforts. 

Conclusion 

The Indigenous Prosperity Centre stands at the forefront of Indigenous economic reconciliation in Canada. Through a focus on youth, Indigenous business development, and collaborative partnerships, SIPP is working to ensure that Indigenous voices are central to the region’s economic future. By following this model, other regions and organizations can learn how to advance economic reconciliation, not just as a policy, but as a shared commitment to building an inclusive, sustainable future for all. This is Indigenomics in action.  

Learn more at: Indigenous Prosperity Centre