November 25, 2024 – Robinson-Superior Treaty, Fort William First Nation Territory,
Thunder Bay, Ontario: The Anishnawbe Business Professional Association (ABPA) is
calling on the federal government to formally support the establishment of a First Nations
Procurement Authority (FNPA) as proposed by the National Aboriginal Capital Corporation
Association (NACCA). This initiative is crucial to addressing ongoing challenges within the
federal procurement system, including concerns about Indigenous identity fraud and a lack
of transparency. The ABPA believes that the FNPA is essential to ensuring that Indigenous
businesses have a fair and equitable opportunity to participate in federal procurement. The
FNPA will also help to build procurement capacity within First Nations communities and
create more business contracting opportunities and employment ensuring that rights holders
are a part of reconciliation.
Concerns with Current Federal Procurement
Recent controversies, including issues with the ArriveCAN, the resignation of Randy
Boissonnault from cabinet over claims of Indigenous heritage, and the swift removal of 1,100
companies from the Indigenous Business Registry by Minister Hajdu, highlight the need for
reform. The lack of transparency and consultation with First Nations leaders and mandated
Indigenous organizations in this process has further fueled concerns about the government’s
approach to Indigenous procurement.
“Recent controversies surrounding Indigenous identity fraud have damaged trust and
hindered reconciliation efforts. The FNPA, led by NACCA’s expertise in verifying Indigenous
identity, will ensure transparency and accountability in federal procurement, restoring
confidence in the system,” stated Jason Rasevych, President, ABPA.
NACCA: A Strong Foundation for the FNPA
NACCA has a long history of working with Indigenous businesses and communities, making
them well-positioned to lead the development and implementation of the FNPA. NACCA’s
strengths include:
- Representing rightsholders: The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) resolution,
backed by over 600 Chiefs, mandates the establishment of a First Nations
Procurement structure and designates NACCA as the host for the FNPA. The First
Nation Procurement Authority also has the support from the five (5) National
Indigenous organization including NACCA, FNFA (First Nations Finance Authority),FMB (First Nations Management Board (FMB), Aboriginal Finance Officers - Association (AFOA Canada), and the Council of Native Development Officers, CANDO.
- Alignment with UNDRIP/FPIC: The FNPA directly supports the UN Declaration on
the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, particularly Articles 3 and 32, which affirm the right
to self-determination and economic participation. It also responds to the Truth and
Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the United Nation Declaration Rights
of Indigenous Peoples and Free Prior Informed Consent framework by promoting
economic reconciliation and empowering Indigenous communities. - Extensive network: For almost 40 years, NACCA has been collaborating with 58
Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) across Canada, including the Nishnawbe Aski
Development Fund in Thunder Bay, demonstrating a commitment to fostering
Indigenous economic independence.
“NACCA is dedicated to fostering Indigenous economic self-reliance on a national scale. The
FNPA will help us achieve this goal by ensuring Indigenous businesses have a fair chance to
participate in federal procurement opportunities,” says Shannin Metatawabin, CEO, NACCA.
“NACCA welcomes the support from the ABPA as we strive to stand up the First Nations
Procurement Authority. Its integral to support mandated and right-holder created service
providers to ensure the impact reaches authentic Indigenous businesses and communities. “
“The Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund (NADF) is proud to support the FNPA initiative,”
says Brian Davey, CEO, NADF. “The FNPA is projected to create jobs and generate economic
activity within First Nations communities in Northern Ontario and across Canada. The FNPA
will reduce dependence on government assistance, ultimately contributing to a stronger
Canadian economy.”
The ABPA calls on Minister Hajdu and Minister Duclos to take immediate action to support
the FNPA, including providing funding in the upcoming budget and enacting legislation to
formally establish the authority. This will ensure the FNPA is operational by the first quarter
of 2025.
