Organizations join forces to support Indigenous agri-food innovation

Bioenterprise, Canada’s Food & Agri-Tech Engine, and the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF), are partnering to support Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities. 

The two organizations will be working together to connect Indigenous agri-food businesses and entrepreneurs with valuable connections, support and funding opportunities in Canada’s agri-food innovation space through Bioenterprise’s national network of mentors, resources and expertise. 

“We are pleased to welcome NCIAF to Bioenterprise Canada’s national network and to get to know Canada’s Indigenous entrepreneurs and leaders in the agri-food sector,” says Dave Smardon, Bioenterprise Canada CEO. “By working together and building a connected agri-food innovation ecosystem that actively involves Indigenous voices, we can help advance the innovation and entrepreneurship that will strengthen food security and sovereignty.”

The NCIAF is committed to nurturing vital relationships among the agriculture industry, government, academia, and other like-minded non-profits with Indigenous communities and Peoples. Its focus is on empowering Indigenous communities and Peoples, supporting reconciliation, and addressing the impacts of generational and systemic trauma. 

“We chose to become a Bioenterprise partner because we share similar goals and objectives in breaking down barriers and building collaboration in the agriculture sector,” says NCIAF President & CEO Kallie Wood. “We believe in the importance of creating a community of entrepreneurs, advocates, and partners dedicated to driving innovation across the nation to ultimately expand business growth and foster a more inclusive and dynamic agricultural landscape.”

Bioenterprise, through its national ecosystem partners, will support NCIAF and its partners connect to new opportunities, discover and leverage new funding sources, and access underutilized services that will assist more Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs while also promoting sustainable practices and enhancing food security.