August 9, 2020 - Moncton, NB - Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency - ACOA
Today is the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, a time to recognize the contributions of those who've called this land home since time immemorial. No relationship is more important to the Government of Canada than that with Indigenous peoples, a Nation-to-Nation partnership. This commitment includes major investments in housing, education and health care, implementing co-developed legislation on Indigenous languages and child and family services, and introducing federal legislation on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
As we walk the road of truth and reconciliation together, the federal government remains strongly committed to creating economic opportunities for Indigenous businesses and communities. This is especially true in Atlantic Canada, where strongly-rooted Indigenous cultures influence economic, educational and civic advances in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Federal government support for Indigenous projects in Atlantic Canada
René Arseneault, Parliamentary Secretary to the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), today announced an investment of more than $6.1 million in support of Indigenous projects across Atlantic Canada.
Delivered by ACOA, this funding will support 12 infrastructure, expansion and capacity-building initiatives led by Indigenous communities, businesses and organizations in the region. These projects, which include hiring consultants and expanding existing operations, will help Indigenous companies and organizations create good, local jobs in their communities.
Quotes
"True reconciliation means supporting Indigenous communities and businesses by providing opportunities for their success. This investment from ACOA will do just that - helping Indigenous businesspeople to seize opportunities, helping Indigenous organizations deliver important local projects and supporting Indigenous communities on their path to self-sufficiency and prosperity. I'm excited to see the difference that this investment will make for Indigenous communities across Atlantic Canada."
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
"I'm pleased that ACOA is working with Indigenous businesses and communities at this critical time. Today's announcement will support 12 projects that will protect jobs and help businesses grow and remain competitive. It will also help community organizations move forward with local economic development opportunities."
- René Arseneault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska-Restigouche and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (ACOA and Official Languages)
Quick facts
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International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed each year on August 9 to promote and protect the rights of the world's Indigenous population. This event also recognizes the achievements and contributions that Indigenous Peoples make to improve world issues such as environmental protection.
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The funding announced today is provided through various ACOA programs, which support projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
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ACOA is investing more than $6.1 million to support 12 Indigenous community and business projects across the four Atlantic provinces.
