Indigenous-ACE programs
The Indigenous-ACE programs provide culturally sensitive and community-tailored entrepreneurial and business education to ensure the full participation of Indigenous Peoples in the Canadian economy.
In 2013, the late Dr. Frank Parnell, CEO, Tribal Resources Investment Corporation (TRICORP), invited Dr. Brent Mainprize, and a collaborative team of Indigenous leaders and Elders, industry representatives and Gustavson School of Business (GSB) professors, to design an entrepreneurial program that would provide the knowledge, skills, and experience prospective Indigenous entrepreneurs need to successfully launch and manage a business.
Designed with a strong focus on bridging Indigenous culture, and combining cutting‑edge business concepts with experiential learning, the Northwest Aboriginal Canadian Entrepreneurs (NW-ACE) program emphasized understanding the market opportunities, the needs and interests of each student, and the value of mentorships. The innovative model of face-to-face and practical applied learning supported participants with an integrated and culturally appropriate approach to become experts in entrepreneurship by encouraging deliberate practice of key skills.
Partnering with federal and regional governments, industry and a post‑secondary institution acknowledged full validation of the program, greater accessibility for our members, and the business expertise and mentorship of professionals in entrepreneurship.
- Dr. Frank Parnell, CEO, TRICORP
Since 2013, in partnership with TRICORP, UVic GSB has customized and delivered by invitation more than 35 ACE programs in Nations spanning northern BC, the Interior, the Kootenays, Central Coast, Haida Gwaii and Vancouver Island.
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In 2020, the program re-branded as Indigenous Advancement of Cultural Entrepreneurship (I-ACE). While maintaining the same award-winning entrepreneurial training, a new logo, designed and licenced by Indigenous artist, Richard Shorty, and an online learning platform, enhanced Dr. Frank Parnell's vision. |
I-ACE will continue to highlight collaboration, social innovation, experiential learning and positive cultural identity, while adhering to Indigenous values that guide communities’ economic approach: sustainable use of resources and revitalization of culture.
Tourism and cultural-based business training
Funding from the BC Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, contributed to customized entrepreneurial training initiatives. Community Workforce Development Grants provided Halalt Nation and Malahat Nation with funds for the skills training and supports needed to meet their local labour market needs.
When Halalt and Malahat Nations received Community Workforce Development Grants, they collaborated with NCIED and Gustavson School of Business (GSB) to design and deliver in-community, entrepreneurial programs customized for their communities.
The Malahat Economic Development and Entrepreneurship Training delivered leadin