Design emerges from the subconscious. What designers absorb—people, places, language, ceremony—shapes what they create. For Indigenous projects, this means authentic design can only emerge if designers spend meaningful time in the community.

The 2025 Federal Budget might be one of the strongest we have seen for First Nations led-development. To assist our clients in uncovering value and leveraging opportunities presented in the budget we have prepared a briefing that underscores and prioritizes the economic opportunity for First Nations. If you are a member, or on the council or economic development corporation of a Canadian First Nation you can request access to our exclusive briefing by filling out a simple form. Click the...

One of the structural barriers that limits long-term, stable development in many First Nations is the tight intertwining of elected leadership and business operations. Imposed by the Canadian government through the Indian Act, Chiefs are required to be elected every two years (though in some Nations the terms have shift to three or four years), and thus councils change frequently. This cemented rhythm of short cycles, campaign seasons, and frequent turnover sows instability because projects...