First Nations Community Multi-Sector Co-operative Development
First Nations Community Multi-Sector Co-operative Development
Ecoleo Consultants provide an economic model for First Nations (FN) communities to stimulate economic development and ensure long-term sustainability, viability and growth. We work with Band Councils to provide a model that is in harmony with the values, principles and the heritage of each community. Under Band Council direction we explore existing economic activities and study those that would stimulate their growth and further develop business synergies. We also explore new economic sectors that are valued by First Nations leaders and offer long-term potential.
We review government programs that are available to support aboriginal business and entrepreneurship development and evaluate their suitability for First Nations development objectives and projects. We find business par…
Projects in Esipogtog First Nation
Ecoleo Consultants made an unsolicited proposal to help Elsipogtog to create employment in the community through a Multi-purpose Co-op structure. Working in conjunction with Elsipogtog Economic Development, the Provincial Government, the Community College, the Seed program and some donations from Cooperators Insurance and Cartier Co-operative, we were able to obtain funds to pay for salaries and equipment to complete the following projects.
The first year:
We worked with youth to recycle 700 lobster traps, clean up the Fisheries Yard and begin cleaning up an older building to be used as our headquarters. We also cleaned some land to prepare the soil for planting vegetables for the following year.
The second year:
1. We worked with youth to create a commercial garden. Our youth group got to experience every step of the process from tilling, garden planning, seeding, caring for various crops, harvesting, grading and sale of the products.
2. We worked with individuals interested in carpentry. We repaired a building that was on the Fisheries property to make it into a functional woodworking shop. We hired a supervisor and trained staff in the production of rustic furniture and produced wood furniture that was sold locally.
3. We also worked with women interested in sewing. We obtained contracts in Dieppe to produce article for the medical industry. After a few weeks, the women decided to concentrate on doing traditional quilts which they sold in the local market.
At the end of the second year, we had employed approximately 30 summer staff. We also had paid for all the $70,000 of equipment and had $25,000 in our account at the Credit Union.