FIRST NATIONS OF QUEBEC AND LABRADOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (FNQLEDC)

Wemotaci CEDO’S PATH MARCH | VOL. 18 | N° 4 STRUCTURING IS ESSENTIAL CDEPNQL.ORG

TO ENHANCING GROWTH THE MANOUANE SIPI PROJECT WILL FINALLY GET UNDERWAY 2

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF SOME OF THE PROJECTS 3

CLUB ODANAK A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES NEXT TO LA TUQUE 4

SUCCESS STORY DEPANNEUR WEMOK OF WEMOTACI 5

OSEKWAN MINIC TRADITIONAL PROCESSING OF BLUEBERRIES: AN ECONOMIC PROJECT 6

DEVELOPING SELF-ESTEEM IN YOUTH Chief François Néashit, Adam Jourdain, Guy Laloche and the FNQLEDC Women’s THROUGH SCHOOL ENTREPRENEURSHIP 7 Entrepreneurship Advisor, Emmanuel Bertrand-Gauvin. AN AGRICULTURE PROJECT IS CURRENTLY IN DEVELOPMENT IN OPITCIWAN 8

Several economic development projects are on the way in the Atikamekw FNQLEDC IN THE FIELD 10

community of Wemotaci. This has been made possible, thanks to the NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT 11

renewed emphasis placed on this activity sector over the past few years, STIMULATING ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN and to a major restructuring. FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITIES 12 TOURISM COLUMN 13

The first step in the restructuring program initiated a few years ago was to create a TAX COLUMN 14 community economic development organization (CEDO), the Nikanik Corporation, the Director General of which is Mr. Adam Jourdain. And then, to have a long-term vision LEGAL COLUMN 15 and in order to be able to achieve new projects, the Corporation adopted a strategic AWASTOKI - 3D TECHNOLOGY IS planning in economic development focused on five lines of action: community-based INTRODUCED TO ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES 16 entrepreneurship, private entrepreneurship, tourism, forestry and sustainable develop- ment. Based on this strategic planning, the Corporation Nikanik makes it its mission to UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE FNQLEDC 16 identify every opportunity in this regard and to implement structures and components that will enable them to seize it.

DEVELOPING PRIVATE ENTREPRENEURSHIP At present, the Conseil des Atikamekw de Wemotaci owns seven limited partnerships, which the following are part of: Épicerie Bonichoix, Services forestiers Aski and Club Odanak. Therefore, entrepreneurship is primarily community-based, but everything is in place to see the number of private enterprises increase over the years ahead. In fact, one of the projects of Corporation Nikanik that will help boost private entrepreneurship in Wemotaci is the construction of a Business Centre. This project, which is of interest to many financial partners, will get underway soon. This project arose from a need of the CEDO’S PATH

Corporation who had to contend with a lack of business prem- Act (FMA), which grants powers that are greater than the ises in the community. In addition to responding to this lack of Indian Act, in particular in the field of infrastructure and eco- space, the new centre will also be there for the needs of entre- nomic development financing. The community will therefore preneurs who don’t always have the means to hire a secretary, be able to use the FMA as economic lever to make loans an accountant, etc. At the Business Centre, they will have at attractive interest rates. In a near future, it will also take access to various services whose costs will be shared amongst steps to subscribe to the 10 years Grant offered by Indigenous them and other users. This is the first phase of a much larger Services Canada, and for which the subscription to the FMA project which includes the construction of an industrial motel is a prerequisite. All these elements brought together will (business incubator) in the years to come. The Corporation enable the community to ensure financial stability and plan Nikanik is also hoping to provide one or two trainings a year to long-term projects. its entrepreneurs to help them in their development. To conclude, all the hard work done so far is starting to pay SELF-EMPOWERMENT NEEDED FOR off, since the community actually has 140 M$ worth of current LONG-TERM PLANNING and upcoming projects. A brief overview of the main projects In order to give itself the means to plan on a long term, will be provided in the next articles of this edition. Wemotaci acceded to the First Nations Fiscal Management

THE MANOUANE SIPI PROJECT WILL FINALLY GET UNDERWAY

On February 15 2019, an agreement for the purchase of electricity was signed with Hydro-Québec, thereby confirming the start of construction of the micro-hydro power plant, which will generate major economic spin-offs for the community of Wemotaci.

The Conseil des Atikamekw de Wemotaci and the city of La Between the 20th year and the last, spin-offs should amount Tuque have been working since 2009 on this construction to 1,5 M$ each year. The execution of the Manouane Sipi project for a micro-hydro power plant of 22 megawatts project will be a stepping stone for a complete change in the on Manouane River. This project was one of the 13 projects economy of the community, while improving services provided retained out of the 31 projects that had been submitted at to its people. Effectively, taking advantage of the context of the time. In 2013, when the PQ government was elected, the construction works, new services will be developed and others project had been abandoned, but it came back on the table in will be improved, for example, the gasoline tanks of the service 2014, when the Quebec Liberal Party took power. Since then, station need to be changed. It will be an opportunity for the several studies have been conducted to relaunch the project, community to install tanks with a greater capacity, which will and a new partner, Kruger Énergie inc., joined the two partners. be beneficial for its members, while at the same time providing On February 15 2019, the electricity purchase contract was gas for the machinery being used on the construction site. signed with Hydro-Québec. 2019 will be a more “technical” Opportunities for business creation, which will be available year, because various studies have been conducted, but it is to both private entrepreneurs and the Band Council, will expected that by 2020, the construction should have begun. also flow from this project. As a matter of fact, the Nikanik The micro-hydro power plant is scheduled to start operating Corporation is currently considering the possibility of building in 2024. a country inn in Wemotaci; such a facility would lodge both, construction workers and visitors. The Atikamekw community is SUBSTANTIAL SPIN-OFFS FOR THE ATIKAMEKW therefore hoping to maximize as much as possible the spin-off COMMUNITY developments of this project to create jobs for its people. And The project consists of a 40-year contract. From the first year finally, the spin-offs of Manouane Sipi will also be reinvested in up until the 19th year, the project should bring in revenues of services to the population. 250 000 $ to 500 000 $ annually to each of its partners.

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A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF SOME OF THE PROJECTS Following is a brief overview of some of the projects due to be completed in a near future in Wemotaci.

In 2017, Wemotaci played host to the Indigenous Inter-Band By the way, the apprentice carpenters will have a factory- Games, an event during which the community hosted close to workshop for the entire duration of their course; the workshop 1 000 youths, aged 9 to 17. It was a great logistical challenge is established in a building that was previously owned by for the small community, and it was carried out with great Hydro-Québec. At first, it will be used for the carpentry course, success. This experience was an eye-opener for the elected and then for the construction of home modules. representatives and Corporation Nikanik in the fact that the community realized that it has the capacity to welcome a large number of people. Given that it possesses also a particular tourism potential, it is a sector of activity that will be developed in the forthcoming years. A project is on the table to build a country inn for visitors who are passing through. Corporation Nikanik is also considering to develop the site of the old reserve where the pow-wow is being held every year, and to get a new outfitter camp.

NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION On another issue, in the past year, the Conseil des Atikamekw de Wemotaci adopted a new housing policy. In partnership with the Aboriginal Savings Corporation of Canada (ASCC), the program offers three options to community members who would be interested in becoming owners: buy the home they currently lease, lease it with option to purchase, or build a new home. Since the inception of the policy, some twenty homes or MINI SAWMILL PROJECT so were sold in the community. Also in the works, is a project to build a mini sawmill, which would be carried out in partnership with Groupe Rémabec In addition to allowing community members with an which owns a sawmill in Parent. The mini sawmill would opportunity to access private property, this revision of the transform wood that cannot be processed in the facilities housing program represents an economic development of the Parent sawmill. Presently, this wood, graded as “sub- opportunity. In fact, the new homes that will be sold are standard” is not being used and it rots in the sawmill lumber prefabricated models delivered in Wemotaci, in modules. By yard. The Wemotaci sawmill would specialize in the processing spring, a training course in carpentry will be offered in the of this oversized wood, thereby avoiding that it be spoiled. This community and the trained carpenters could build the houses project would represent an investment of approximately 3 M$ directly on site in Wemotaci, which represents a business and and would create several jobs. And who knows, once the wood job creation opportunity. is processed, perhaps it could be used by the carpenters for the construction of new homes.

All the projects supported by the community are interconnected. Once implemented, these projects will generate new needs which could be met by the creation of new businesses. Private and community-based entrepreneurship will have a chance to develop and it is the population that stands to gain from this, because it will have access to more services. Photo: SEDAC Photo:

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Club Odanak A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES NEXT TO LA TUQUE

Club Odanak is an area of 45 km2 located within the traditional domain of the Atikamekw Nation, at approximately 20 minutes from La Tuque.

The site, as we know it today was developed in the 1990s by a Frenchman who was an avid hunter and fisherman. In 2003, the Conseil of Atikamekw de Wemotaci bought the property and its buildings. It is now an outfitting operation where brook trout is found in any of the 16 lakes and ponds. Hunters too will take some enjoyment from it, with an attractive offering of black bear, moose and small game hunting. In the summer, a Main building of Club Odanak. variety of activities are proposed, such as berry picking, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and pedal boating. It’s also an excep- Since this year, Club Odanak offers visitors the possibility of tional site for bird watching. Three buildings make up this small renting snowmobiles from its fleet of ten. This new addition retreat with its 48 well-appointed rooms. Guests may enjoy a is a great success, because snowmobiles are rented by both great meal in the dining room of the main building which can domestic and foreign tourists. Visitors can enjoy snowmobiling host a maximum of 110 people. alone or accompanied by a guide. One particular innovation this year is the dog-sledding activity. Other available activities WINTER ACTIVITIES include ice fishing, snow tubing and ice skating. Aboriginal cul- In the last years, Club Odanak was engaged mainly in activities ture activities can also be organized on request, during which that spread over a three-season period. Following a restructur- a guide gets out to the forest with the tourists and explains ing, the Club benefited from the help of Quebec Aboriginal how to prepare bannock, etc. Tourism (QAT) to develop a new offering of winter tourism. Quebec Aboriginal Tourism’s aid was used in particular to With such a diversified offer, you can expect that within the create contacts among travel wholesalers, which has been next few years, Club Odanak will become a must-see tourist effective, because the site is now visited by many American site of the Mauricie region! and European tourists.

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Success Story DEPANNEUR WEMOK OF WEMOTACI

In July 2016, Réjeanne Petiquay and Jean-Guy Boivin opened Dépanneur Wemok Convenience Store in a former construction trailer, with 700 $ worth of products in inventory. Almost three years later, the business doubled its floor area and it now employs six persons, an incredible accomplishment, without any external financial support.

clientele. Among others, they built a cold storage room to be able to sell beer, and they also sell cigarettes. The convenience store is also a retailer for Loto-Québec.

Ms. Petiquay worked for 30 years at the Band Council in the finance department. She therefore had a sound foundation in administration to help her manage their business. Considering that success came quickly for the convenience store, she left her job to work full time in her store. As for Mr. Boivin, he kept his job. Because the depanneur is open from 8:00am to 11:00pm, every day, and given the fact that, at the beginning, they had no employees, the two owners have worked really hard during the first years. Fortunately, they were able to count on the help and support of their children and grandchildren. But, at that time, Ms. Petiquay was still working almost seven days a week. Now that they have employees, she works from 9:00am to The owners of Dépanneur Wemok, Jean-Guy Boivin and Réjeanne 11:30pm, but she no longer works on weekends. Petiquay, with the Director General of Corporation Nikanik. DEBATE OVER THE PLACE OF PRIVATE VS Prior to 2016, the only place where the population of Wemotaci COMMUNITY could go to buy food was a grocery store called Bonichoix, When Dépanneur Wemok Convenience Store opened its which is owned by the Band Council. Consequently, if you doors, it somewhat launched a debate in the community as wanted to buy chips or soft drinks in the evening, you had to to the place of a private business in a sector of activity occu- go to the grocery store before closing, at 9:00pm. This situa- pied by a community business owned by the Band Council. At tion and the need thus created gave the couple the idea of the beginning, there was some sort of competition between opening a convenience store that could fill that void. the convenience store and the grocery store, which, as a response, even extended its opening hours in the evening for During the summer of the same year, the two owners bought a about two to three months. After a while, the Band Council 12’ x 50’ construction trailer, which they completely renovated and the two owners sat down together and discussed how the and redesigned by doing the work at night and on weekends, two enterprises could work together. Today, the operations of given the fact that the two owners were working during the the two businesses are complementary, because it happens day. They worked at that pace for two months before being that Dépanneur Wemok Convenience Store places orders to finally able to open the convenience store. At that time, half of Bonichoix, and this really works well for both parties. the floor area of the convenience store was reserved for retail business and the other half was used for storage. To conclude, Ms. Petiquay and Mr. Boivin take pride in not being indebted, which is a remarkable achievement indeed, When they went into business, the couple had modest budget given the fact that they didn’t have to resort to any exter- forecasts and estimated at 300 $ what they could earn daily nal financial assistance to launch their business; that doesn’t with their business. But the store quickly grew in popularity and happen very often. The two owners plan on expanding the these forecasts exceeded swiftly. Over time, they reinvested convenience store once again in a near future, which is a tes- the profits made in their business which allowed them to tament to the success of this great enterprise. almost double the surface area and offer new services to their

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Osekwan Minic TRADITIONAL PROCESSING OF BLUEBERRIES: AN ECONOMIC PROJECT

In Wemotaci, Association Nikawi is the instigator of the Osekwan Minic project, whose aim is to increase economic independence for women, while enhancing their valuable know-how in the processing of wild blueberries.

The objectives of Association Nikawi are to defend the inter- ests of Wemotaci women and make sure their voices are heard, improve their living conditions, promote cultural knowledge transfer between elders and young people, and organize activities or workshops to facilitate integration of women in every area. This good idea goes back to 2015 when the Association decided to start the Osekwan Minic project. Following is a brief overview.

A PROCESS PASSED ON FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION The community of Wemotaci is located on a forest territory where blueberries grow abundantly. The population has been harvesting and processing this small fruit in the traditional important to specify that all women have received training way for many years. In anticipation of the long winter months, in food hygiene and sanitation, a course provided by Health women were turning blueberries to paste, a unique technique Canada; this allows them to develop products compliant with done the traditional way in a pot over a wood fire, which made standards. it possible to preserve it for a very long time. These blueberry paste jars are then sold at community events Blueberry processing is accomplished by following very specific or in other First Nations activities. In November 2018, women steps. First, they are harvested in and around the community were invited to participate in the Wendake Christmas Market. by women, who then take their harvest to Osekwan Minic. On Proceeds will help organize events for women and families of site, blueberries are sorted, graded, before being washed. They the community. are then ready for processing or freezing. Once the processing step is completed, the blueberry paste is packed in sterilized THE SPIN-OFF DEVELOPMENTS OF OSEKWAN MINIC jars which are then sealed in an autoclave and labeled. It’s Osekwan Minic is a project that makes it possible to create major socioeconomic spin-offs. First of all, it’s a wonderful opportunity for women to contribute to the economic develop- ment of their community. The project has led to the creation of jobs (six female pickers in 2018 and one coordinator), which is an incentive to enhance livelihoods for women. And given that women often find themselves as the economic support of their families, the social impact of Osekwan Minic affects even more people. But, even more important. The fabrication of blueberry paste is an ancestral technique that has been almost forgot- ten in the community. Through Osekwan Minic, Association Nikawi was able to revive it, and it is now being taught to the young people via workshops.

In the summer of 2018, a nutrition student of the Atikamekw Workers of Osekwan Minic filling jars with blueberry paste. Photo: Association Association Photo: Nikawi community was hired to coordinate the project. She documented

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all the transformation processes and developed tools directed Atikamekw de Wemotaci and the Youth Centre of Wemotaci towards achieving, in a near future, a certification for the blue- also contributed to making this Osekwan Minic project, pos- berry paste. Eventually, all this documentation could be used with sible. Finally, since December 2017, there is a partnership the aim of replicating the project in other communities, which, in developing between Association Nikawi and the Innu com- itself, represents a significant impact. munities of Ekuanitshit and Mashteuiatsh. This partnership allows for the sharing of each group’s expertise and for econ- SEVERAL PARTNERS INVOLVED omies of scale when the time comes to market the product. To bring this project to fruition, Association Nikawi was able to count on the collaboration of the FNQLEDC Women The FNQLEDC would like to acknowledge the tremendous Entrepreneurship Advisor, Emmanuel Bertrand-Gauvin. Other work of the Osekwan Minic team and wishes a long life to this partners, such as Status of Women Canada, the Conseil des wonderful project!

DEVELOPING SELF-ESTEEM IN YOUTH THROUGH SCHOOL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

For some years now, special needs students of Wemotaci’s Nikanik Secondary School have had the opportunity to participate in a program called “Les deux lois de la réussite”, (The two rules of success) which draws on the example of PCR (perseverance + competence = réussite (success) developed in the Algonquin community of Lac Simon. Following is an overview of this inspiring project.

The Director of Nikanik Secondary School, Mr. Pascal Sasseville- Quoquochi explains that in order to take part in the program, youths must commit to respect two rules, which consist in being present at 95 % of their courses and maintaining a high level of participation in the activities. If those two conditions are met and the youths have raised a sufficient amount of money through their entrepreneurial projects, they can participate in an engagement activity that is organized to reward them.

DÉMARCHE D’IMPLANTATION À L’ATTENTION DES ÉCOLES ENTREPRENEURIAL PROJECTS SECONDAIRES DES Young people take part in several entrepreneurial projects COMMUNAUTÉS AUTOCHTONES throughout the school year. Every year, in the fall, the logging company Remabec, comes to the community to deliver one or two truckloads of free-length wood. The youths, who have Patrick Binette been previously trained in tree felling in La Tuque, cut and split Pascal Sasseville-Quoquochi Céline Auclair the wood for firewood that will be sold in cords to the com- Lucie Barriault munity members. On another note, a catering service is also Une réalisation de : available in the community to cater to general assemblies and ÉCOLE SECONDAIRE AMIK-WICHE events being held. Recently, the youths had the opportunity ÉCOLE SECONDAIRE NIKANIK to prepare the food that was served to the participants of Challenge Blanc during its recent visit to Wemotaci. Monies raised during this event allowed the youths to go alpine skiing cultural gathering place behind the school, which includes in La Tuque. One other project is taking place in the fall and in a shaputuan, a teepee and two sweat lodges. And finally, a the spring, whereby the young people offer tire change servi- platform to be used as a stage for the presentation of shows at ces to the population. the end of the school year will be built in a near future. All these facilities are being used by the two schools of Wemotaci, but On another issue, young participants in the Pre-work Training they are also at the disposal of the population. Mr. Sasseville- Program (PTP) have begun assembling and building a Quoquochi wishes that eventually young participants of the

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entrepreneurship program will use their special site and share the program’s objectives is to empower young people as much it with other young people from all over and experience as possible. With this in mind, collaboration has been established activities that are related to the six Atikamekw seasons. with the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) to eventually offer driving courses at the school. With a driver’s THE OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAM licence in hand, young people will no longer be reliant on others At the moment, there are 25 to 30 young people who to move around and this will also raise their accessibility to jobs. participate in the ‘Two Rules of Success’ Program. They are students registered in the Pre-work Training and Training In conclusion, the PCR model implemented in Wemotaci illus- for a Semi-skilled Trade Program (FPTMSS) and who are trates that entrepreneurship can have much broader goals struggling with significant personal issues and learning than the fact of creating jobs. In fact, it’s a tool to develop and disabilities. Through this program, the school administrators empower our youths so they become better persons. aim to improve student retention among these young people who have a high absenteeism rate. Mr. Sasseville-Quoquochi If School Entrepreneurship is of interest to you, if you would further emphasizes that this program was put in place so that like to implement the PCR model in your community, there young people feel useful in their community. In Wemotaci, is an information kit that was developed two years ago by there is a high rate of social assistance and he would like to the Amik-Wiche school of Lac Simon and the Wemotaci see that number drop. To succeed in this optic, it is essential Secondary School, in collaboration with the Centre d’in- that young people feel useful, because when a person feels novation des Premiers Peuples et l’Université du Québec à useful in a society, it is able to help people and offer services Trois-Rivières (UQTR). In fact, it is the UQTR that created that will enhance people’s quality of life. Entrepreneurship the canvas, based on experiences lived out in Lac Simon thus becomes a tool that can be used to convey community and Wemotaci. This kit was developed with the goal of values to young people. The activities in which they are empowering the communities that would be interested involved help build their self-esteem so that, later on, they in implementing the PCR Program. For more informa- contribute to the wellbeing of their community. And if, by tion, please visit: https://www.ctreq.qc.ca/realisation/ the same token these activities spark a professional interest modele-pcr/ amongst the young people, it will be even better. Another of

AN AGRICULTURE PROJECT IS CURRENTLY IN DEVELOPMENT IN OPITCIWAN

As early as this summer, the population of Opitciwan will be able to grow its own vegetables or buy some at the grocery store, thanks to an exciting and promising project which is arousing a great deal of enthusiasm and hope in the Atikamekw community.

About two years ago, Ernest Awashish, who is the economic and Food (MAPAQ) and the Social Sciences and Humanities development officer in the community of Opitciwan, had the Research Council (SSHRC). idea of this project. His hope was that community members could buy fruits and vegetables that were fresher than those actually A TWO-PHASED PROJECT sold at the Opitciwonok grocery store, produces that are trans- The project is divided in two specific areas: a collective part ported from Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean. Besides being of better (commercial) and another one that is community-based. quality, the fruits and vegetables will be more affordable. The collective part foresees in a first step the acquisition of two very large greenhouses. The commercial production in The project aims to achieve several objectives, the most those two greenhouses will begin in two years and will serve important of which are to improve and develop healthy eating to supply the Opitciwonok grocery store. If there are fruit and and lifestyle choices amongst community members, end food vegetable surpluses, they will be sold outside the community, insecurity, and create economic benefits in the community. To in Chibougamau or in Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean for example. bring the idea to fruition, several partners have been called upon, including the Centre d’innovation sociale en agricul- As for the community aspect, it foresees the establishment ture (CISA), the Quebec Department of Agriculture, Fisheries of community-based gardens which could be maintained by

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community institutions and organizations. The secondary school, the Elders’ Home and the Early Childhood Centre (CPE) have in fact indicated an interest in participating in the project. Plots of land will also be allocated to families and individuals who will cultivate and maintain them, and harvest their productions. The community part of this greenhouse growing project sets out first to train the participants, raise the awareness of the population about this new activity and « citizen » ownership of the project by the people of the community. This component will serve as a stepping stone for the participants who will want to continue to grow fruits and vegetables with the future cooperative that will be formed to manage this project.

CONSULTATION IN THE COMMUNITY AND One of the fields where will be built a community garden. PARTICIPATION The collective part of this project has been presented to the To ensure that the project is progressing well, two persons will community members in the fall of 2018. At the time, some be hired by Opitciwan Economic Development. CISA also hired twelve people or so indicated an interest. A second meeting two students in Anthropology to mobilize the community and is planned for March 2019 for the submission of plans for the to monitor the achievements of the project. In addition, two stu- gardens and greenhouses to the population. Chances are dents in agricultural business management technique will join that other participants will join in following that presentation. the team to accompany the community in the establishment At that meeting, the varieties of fruits and vegetables to be and maintenance of the gardens. There should be a five-person grown will be selected, because they want to make sure field team, in total. The study aims to identify success factors and that all the crops will be consumed. As far as the community define the next steps, which could be used by other communities component goes, it will be the coordinators and officials of the who would like to implement a similar project. interested institutions that will recruit the participants amongst their clienteles. The project is currently under way for a period of three years and they are in their first year. The objective of CISA is to offer even COURSE AND DURATION OF THE PROJECT more comprehensive support that would allow them to with- The goal of the project promoters is to start using the green- draw from the project at the end, while ensuring that it will be houses this year, but it will be a challenge, because before taken over by the community. In fact, Mr. Awashish hopes that doing so, they must ensure that a good system supplying water this project becomes permanent. He’s also confident that young and heat is put in place. Also, large quantities of good soil and people will develop an interest for agriculture through promo- compost must be purchased, because the soil in Opitciwan is tional, awareness-raising and training activities to be organized. very sandy and not fertile for agriculture. In addition, fences must be erected around the community gardens to protect it against dogs and vandalism.

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On January 22 2019, our Women’s FNQLEDC Entrepreneurship Advisor, Emmanuel Bertrand-Gauvin, presented in the the Osekwan Minic project with Ms. Viviane Chilton, at an event organized by the First Nations of field Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute.

On February 27, the FNQLEDC presented a Conference- dinner on First Nations taxation, in Mashteuiatsh, in collaboration with the Société de développement Our Social Economy Advisor, Karine économique Ilnu. Guest speakers were MM. Christian Awashish, participated in the Sénéchal and Olivier Leroux, of Deloitte. Colloque SOCAM 2019, son réseauth et ses défis, held on February 19 st to the 21 , in Saguenay.

On February 27, Myriam Vallières, our Youth Entrepreneurship Advisor presented a workshop to the students of the construction business management course at the Sabtuan Regional Vocational On last February the 5th to the 7th, two of our Training Center advisors, Myriam Vallières and Frédérick Martel, School of Waswanipi. offered training on business plan development, in Mistissini. On the picture, we can also see Andrew Coon, CEDO for the Cree community.

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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT

The First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Economic Development Commission (FNQLEDC) are pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Annick Tremblay, who will hold the post of Social Economy Agent.

Annick is a member of the Innu community of Mashteuiatsh. that she joins the team of the Her extensive experience working with First Nations allowed FNQLEDC and she is eager to her to develop her skills in community mobilisation and share her expertise with our project development. In fact, Annick will have the opportunity clientele. to make use of those skills when supporting the communities in their socioeconomic development. By holding a number Should you have any questions, of positions as coordinator for a social economy enterprise please feel free to contact her! and as Youth Regional Coordinator at the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador (AFNQL), Annick has taken considerable interest for social economy. She has also Annick Tremblay contributed to the organization of the first edition of our Social Economy Agent StartUP Nations event, and for the past few months, she has Tel. : 418-843-1488, x1233 been involved in its second edition. It is with great enthusiasm [email protected]

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First Nation Housing Policy and Market Housing

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Maquette à titre de référence seulement. Les proportions et les teintes peuvent varier.

Signature : Date :

CEDO’S PATH

STIMULATING ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITIES

More and more First Nations communities hold ‘entrepreneurial days’ to promote entrepreneurship as a career option and encourage new business start-ups.

All day long, entrepreneurs from various Innu communities of the Lower North-Shore came and talked about their per- sonal journey, the challenges they have overcome and the perseverance needed to see their business projects come to fruition. In that respect, inspiring testimonials, such as Tanya Penashue-Lalo’s, owner of Dépanneur LM of Pakua Shipu, and that of Dolorès Bellefleur, who will be opening a country inn in Unamen Shipu, added something more tangible to the concept of entrepreneurship. A young construction entrepre- neur of the community came and delivered a truly inspiring message, insisting on the vital importance of actually creating jobs in Aboriginal communities. These entrepreneurial success stories made it possible for the participants to identify them- Myriam Vallières, of the FNQLEDC, accompanied by selves to the entrepreneurs and realize that, very often, these Brenda Michel and Valérie Kaltush, of the Corporation de entrepreneurs have a background that is similar to theirs. développement économique Ekuanitshinnuat. In the view of the Economic Development Officer of Ekuanitshit, In First Nations communities that are located in remote or Ms. Valérie Kaltush, the event delivered fully on its expecta- semi-urban areas, there are not much service businesses or tions, which was to foster entrepreneurship in the community. enterprises that meet the needs of local populations. Given The latter is particularly proud of the Innu entrepreneurs who that there are not enough of them to have branches linked to took the time to come and talk about their personal jour- large chain stores, people often need to travel long distances ney and businesses. Other people were also invited to come to buy what they need. and speak to the participants. Representatives of entrepre- neurial aid organizations, such as the First Nations of Quebec In a way, this situation represents an enormous potential to and Labrador Economic Development Commission, and the create local businesses, which would improve the service offer, Corporation de développement économique montagnaise while creating jobs. But, not everybody understands what took the floor to present their services and offer tools to young entrepreneurship is all about, and what challenges are faced entrepreneurs to help them start their own business. To con- by the entrepreneur. This is where events, such as career fairs clude, the CDEE presented the offer of services that was and ‘entrepreneurial days’ become so important, and can be developed to support the entrepreneurs of Ekuanitshit. organized to remedy the situation. STIMULATING THINKING ON ENTREPRENEURSHIP ENTREPRENEURIAL DAY IN EKUANITSHIT After an ‘entrepreneurial day’, such as the one organized in In the Innu community of Ekuanitshit, situated near Havre- Ekuanitshit, participants are better equipped to identifying Saint-Pierre, efforts have been made for a number of years now business ideas which could be created in their communities. to encourage private entrepreneurship. At present, the Band While on the other hand, their counterparts who already have Council owns 17 businesses providing a variety of services, and a project can leave with an array of useful information that will there are also seven other private enterprises; which is a good help them carry out their proposed ventures. ratio for a community of 655 members. To further encourage the creation of new businesses, the team of Corporation de développement économique Ekuanitshinnuat (CDEE) organ- ized an ‘Entrepreneurial Day’ on this past January 24th. Close to 30 people attended the event.

12 | NIKAN | MARCH 2019 CEDO’S PATH

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T BY LAURENCE LAINÉ, COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING AGENT, QUEBEC ABORIGINAL TOURISM

With eleven nations spread out in some sixty communities, there are plenty of opportunities to discover Aboriginal Peoples living in Quebec, no matter the season.

Within reach of the Montreal metropolis and located in And finally, the most recent Aboriginal tourism project of the the rugged mountainous wild of the “North” the regions of region is the Centre d’amitié autochtone de La Tuque, called Lanaudière and Mauricie deploy an incredible wealth of con- Centre Sakihikan. Located on the shores of a natural lake right trasts between the urban life of the St-Lawrence valley and at the heart of downtown La Tuque, it is the perfect place to the great untamed nature of hinterland regions. You can find become imbued with Aboriginal culture, thanks to its calendar Aboriginal communities, whose nomadic heritage is always of summer events, shows and animations. In fact, it should be closest to nature and its resources. In Wemotaci, Manawan noted that the Centre Sakihikan is finalist for the 20th edition and Opitciwan, the Atikamekw, formerly known as “Têtes-de- of the Arts Excellence Awards organized by Culture Mauricie, boule” because of their headdress, have reverted, since the in the category of Cultural Vitality Initiative of the year 1970s to using their original name which means “white fish”. Even if fishing forms an integral part of their DNA, there is an In closing, let’s not forget that pow-wows also represent a perfect area in which they particularly excel: bark work. This age-long opportunity to experience a genuine immersion in the different traditional know-how is manifested in the making of canoes Aboriginal traditional cultures. First, through handicraft and trad- and all sorts of everyday necessities. They make their own itional home-made garments, the host nation and other invited path between due respect for their traditions and environment nations take pride in displaying the work of their finest crafts and economic development. people and creators. And then, naturally, through songs and music, not to mention the Aboriginal flavours, given that gas- Diverse experiences allow the visitor to blend into the every- tronomy and wild game tasting still hold prominence! Reputed day life of this Nation. For example, the Matakan traditional to be very traditional, this year’s Manawan Pow-Wow will be site offers packages of three to five days on this enchanting held on August 2nd to the 4th 2019. In the Wemotaci community, site situated on magnificent Kempt Lake, in Manawan. These celebrations will take place on the weekend of Labour Day, from visits consist in a variety of activities, such as fishing, Rabaska August 30th to September 1st. In Opitciwan, the dates are yet to canoeing excursions, and naturally, the introduction to birch be decided, but watch for upcoming announcements on Route bark objects making. In complement, the Domaine Notcimik, des Pow-Wow 2019, all dates will be displayed. Now you’re all set located at La Bostonnais, offers various types of lodgings to go off and meet the Atikamekw People. Enjoy the discovery! (tent, teepees, prospector’s camp) on a site with reward- ing and participatory experiences on the Atikamekw way Contact information: of life and craftsmanship. It includes among others, stories Quebec Aboriginal Tourism and legends which recall the beliefs of that Nation, in a way 50, boul. Maurice-Bastien, which is commensurate with the nature. As for Club Odanak, Room 510, 3rd floor hunting and fishing enthusiasts will be fully satisfied in this Wendake (Quebec) G0A 4V0 outfitter camp offering various activities to its clientele, such Phone: (418) 843-5030 as canoeing and kayaking. Cordial and homely, this holiday Toll Free: 1 877-698-7827 haven has a 48-room country inn based in La Tuque, where Email: [email protected] both, Atikamekw and Quebec traditional values are promoted.

MARCH 2019 | NIKAN | 13 CEDO’S PATH

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X RETIREMENT PLANNING : WHAT TYPES

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BY RBA FINANCIAL GROUP

For most people, retirement planning is a concept worthy of clarification. Whether you are an entrepreneur or a self-employed worker, the choice of a pension plan adapted to your needs will allow you and your employees, as the case may be, to better plan and meet your retirement goals. Based on your lifestyle and financial situation in general, the replacement income percentage will vary from person to person.

In this column, the different types of pension plans offered to expensive and the employer bears the risk of insolvency, it employers, their employees and self-employed workers are offers greater protection upon retirement for you and your covered in greater detail. employees against the longevity risk of outliving your savings and significantly impacting your lifestyle in retirement. As a rule, an individual’s retirement income comes from three main sources: pension plans, social programs and personal The second type of plan is the RBA defined contribution plan. savings. The income weight of these three components will This plan is much more prevalent among self-employed fluctuate during retirement based on factors such as retirement workers and entrepreneurs because it offers greater flexibility age, life expectancy, rates of return, inflation, etc. and no financial risk for the employer. This type of plan foresees the accumulation of sums in each employee account. The Over the past 40 years, the mission of RBA Financial Group, a amount of retirement income will then be established at the non-profit organization, has been to develop and offer group time of retirement based on the funds accumulated by the financial products and services adapted to the financial security employee, the employer and investment income credited from needs of our clientele. With this in mind, our affiliates are now the contributions. able to offer a defined benefits plan and a defined contribution plan. In both cases, these plans consist of multi-employer plans The main characteristics of the plan include a participation rate leading to economies of scale for all our members. varying between 2% and 18% of gross salary, RRQ integration or not, a multitude of investment options, competitive First, a word about the RBA defined benefits plan. This management fees and much more! plan foresees the accumulation of a guaranteed pension calculated on the basis of years of participation of each One of the main characteristics shared by both these plans employee member of the plan. Although this plan is more is undoubtedly tax-free retirement income, insofar as the salaries attached to the pensions are exempted from taxation (Williams Decision, 1992). Indeed, RBA Financial Group allows RBA Financial Group offers you its members to receive the payment of pensions tax-exempt fi nancial services and products at source, hassle-free from tax authorities. designed to meet your needs Obviously, this article provides but a brief overview of the two main types of pension plans offered to First Nations members • Pension Plans seeking to plan their retirement. Whether for you or your • Group Insurance employees, do not forget that the sooner you begin to plan • Group Plan your retirement, the easier it will be to achieve your retirement • Health and Safety at Work goals! Do not hesitate to contact our specialists to obtain a solution adapted to your needs. Contact us to fi nd out more!

2936, rue de la Faune, bureau 202, Wendake 418 847-1840 • 1 888 242-0277 rbagroupefi nancier.com

14 | NIKAN | MARCH 2019 ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER

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BY PAMÉLA CÔTÉ, NEASHISH & CHAMPOUX ASSOCIATES

In Canada, all citizens can acquire private property if they can afford it. However this does not apply to First Nation members living on reserve. As a matter of fact Indian reserves also referred to as indigenous communities or First Nation communities are governed by the Indian Act and are defined as a “tract of land, the legal title to which is vested in Her Majesty, that has been set apart by Her Majesty for the use and benefit of a band”.

Land on reserves is therefore different than other types of land grant leases on reserve lands for specific trade, service, or light in the sense that neither the band nor individuals own the land industry purposes, or to grant a right on one of these such as on reserve, except in some very rare cases. Official ownership an easement for instance. The band must prove its consent to titles are most usually held by the federal or provincial govern- a proposed designation by a vote conducted during a refer- ment. Because of this, land cannot be legally seized nor can it endum upon a request by the band council, following an order be mortgaged. Still, band members have rights on reserve land by the minister. including exclusive use and occupation. Note that even though a province may in some cases own reserve land, indigenous Land designation can support economic development by reserves are under federal jurisdiction. allowing the lease of reserve land to community members and non-members (usually companies) that wish to oper- Under the Act, band members may be granted land but only ate on designated land. The main purpose of this is to give on the reserve of the band they belong to. Land attribution entrepreneurs access to loans without requiring a deposit gives them the right to occupy a parcel of land on reserve. This from the band council. It is noteworthy that designated land right is granted by the band council by way of resolution and remains reserve land and that designation has no impact on provides an ownership certificate subject to minister approval. Aboriginal and treaty rights, and on Canada’s obligations to But even when the attribution is approved, the Crown still First Nations. However, designated land parcels cannot be retains the land ownership title. The resale of a community used by the band council or band members until the desig- member’s property on reserve and, consequently, the trans- nation expires or is revoked. fer of the ownership certificate, is limited the band or band members and is also subject to minister approval. In the event that the owner of the “lawful possession” is no longer a band member, the land attribution must be transferred to the band or another band member.

LAND DESIGNATION Land designation, on the other hand, is a legal instrument Neashish & Champoux s.e.n.c. allowing a band and its members to hand over, conditionally 50, boul. Maurice-Bastien, bureau 400 or unconditionally, other than an absolute right of the Crown, Wendake (Québec) G0A 4V0 any right to all or part of a reserve. Land designation is used to T : 418 845-8317

MARCH 2019 | NIKAN | 15 AWASTOKI - 3D TECHNOLOGY IS INTRODUCED TO ABORIGINAL COMMUNITIES

Awastoki is a new Aboriginal business, based in Wendake, specializing in 3D digital creation, particularly for architectural or medical visualisation, interactive media (video games, virtual and augmented reality), and 3D material printing.

Two young entrepreneurs are at the head of the business: Caroline Fournier and Alexis Gros-Louis Houle (a Native from the Huron-Wendat Nation). Both are 3D artists and possess training in 3D animation and computer graphics. They also worked as teachers in 3D art, at Cegep de Limoilou during a few years.

In the spring of 2018, they decide to go into business together and create Awastoki, which means “beautiful spirit”in​ Huron- Wendat. The FNQLEDC provided them with the necessary support in their business creation process, starting with the drafting of the business plan and in their quest for financing. In fact it is with great pride that we learned that Caroline The young entrepreneurs, Caroline Fournier and Alexis Gros-Louis. and Alexis obtained the funding they had requested from the Secrétariat aux affaires autochtones (SAA). help. On the other hand, with such a generous subsidy, success seems to be so much more within reach, and opportunities “It is clear that we are really glad to have received our letter seem so much greater for our enterprise! It’s a wonderful news of acceptance, but we don’t fully realize what this involves, for Awastoki!” emphasized Caroline. and to what extent this will help us in our project. We are independent and hard-working people and we do everything We congratulate them on this achievement, and we wish them we can to make our project works at all costs, with or without great success in their future endeavours!

UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE FNQLEDC

CONFERENCE DAY ON ABORIGINAL TOURISM STARTUP NATIONS Date : April 17, 2019 Date : May 23rd to 25th, 2019 Place : Hôtel-Musée Premières Nations, Wendake Place : Montreal

FIRST NATIONS OF QUEBEC AND LABRADOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION 265, Place Chef Michel Laveau, bureau 200, Wendake (Qc) G0A 4V0 T: 418 843-1488 | Fax: 418 843-6672 [email protected] | cdepnql.org Redaction: Marie-Christine Tremblay, Véronique Édé Traduction: Aline Chéné Graphic design: Nancy Pomerleau, Siamois graphisme

WARNING ON PROTECTION AND CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION The information contained in this newsletter is protected in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations. It is therefore prohibited to distribute or to copy any part of this document without the written permission of the FNQLEDC. Legal deposit – National Library of Canada, 2004 Legal deposit – Bibliothèque nationale du Québec, 2004