THUNDER BAY — After a successful inaugural event in 2024, the Neeganii-Iishawin economic development gathering returns next month.
Neeganii-Iishawin focuses on Indigenous capacity-building insights and developing economic development opportunities in Northwestern Ontario.
Nearly 300 people attended last year’s event, including sponsored guests, ticketed guests, speakers and exhibitors to the conference and tradeshow, accoridng to a media release issued Friday. Thirty-seven First Nation communities were represented, 88 Northern Ontario businesses and organizations participated and the gathering also featured 41 exhibitors.
This year, the event is set for Feb. 11 to 13 at the Valhalla Inn. Each day will focus on a different theme: builders and leaders, new growth – resources, relationships and renewability, and youth and the future.
Confirmed speakers include Tabatha Bull of the Canada Council for Indigenous Business, Valerie Gideon of FEDNOR, Ginger Gibson of Firelight, Steve Berna of National Bank of Canada, and Ernie Daniels of First Nations Finance Authority.
Neeganii-Iishawin is hosted by Windigo Community Development Corporation, Shibogama First Nations Council, Matawa First Nations, Keewaytinook Okimakanak, ThawiKayhiGan Group and Independent First Nations Alliance.
Together the six organizations represent more than 30 communities across Northwestern Ontario.
First Nation and ally communities, entrepreneurs, economic development leaders, funders and partners are all welcome to register for the event.
