Alberta First Nations Economic Development Model
Impacts Entire Province
RADF Investment: $1.2 million
Other Investment: $650,000
Total Investment: $1.85 million
Project Period: January 2008–April 2009
Aboriginal
Economic Development
Project Description
Support from the Rural Alberta Development Fund allowed the Alberta First Nations Industrial Initiatives Society to develop a business model that shows Alberta First Nations how to pursue and manage large economic ventures for their communities. Now complete, these blueprint and supportive templates are available to all Alberta First Nations on a secure website. The initiative was led by the Enoch First Nation in Edmonton, with the support of Alberta's First Nations and the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs.
Note: On February 8, 2012, the Government of Alberta reversed their support of the proposed refinery.
Expected Outcomes and Benefits
All projects go through a selection process to ensure they will improve the quality of life for Albertans. This project meets this objective through the following outcomes and benefits:
- Partnership between Enoch First Nation and Engineering India Ltd. is in place to plan and construct a petroleum refinery with annual revenue potential of $500–$700 million
- Create business model for other First Nations to use that is easily adapted to any large economic initiative
- Develop supporting studies, reports, and processes to implement the business model effectively
- Increase capacity in Alberta’s First Nation communities to manage large economic projects
- Enhance skill development, capacity, and sustainability in Aboriginal communities
- Give Alberta First Nations the know-how to pursue their own economic development activities and improve the standard of life in their communities