Creating Wealth in Aboriginal Communities

Aboriginal leaders are determined to make their communities self-reliant by reducing their high unemployment and their dependence on government. They are doing that by creating wealth and employment through community-owned enterprises. Using case studies, Creating Wealth and Employment in Aboriginal Communities discusses six key factors that contribute to the success of Aboriginal community-owned enterprises.

Document Highlights

Leaders in traditional Aboriginal communities agree that economic self-sufficiency is best achieved by establishing and growing businesses within their communities. For most Aboriginal communities, it is important that values like sharing, community decision-making and respect for tradition are incorporated in the process of creating and growing businesses. Creating Wealth And Employment in Aboriginal Communities identifies six key factors that contribute to the success of Aboriginal community-owned enterprises. They are: strong leadership and vision; a strategic community economic development plan; access to capital, markets and management expertise; good governance and management; transparency and accountability; and the positive interplay of business and politics. Based on extensive interviews and case studies of 10 geographically distinct Aboriginal communities, this report focuses on how community-owned businesses can create wealth and employment while preserving traditional cultures and maintaining respect for traditional values.