Indigenous Peoples are foundational to Alberta’s economic success – past, present, and future. Their contributions span every sector, from natural resources and small business to innovation, tourism and skilled trades. Ensuring Indigenous participation at every level of the economy is essential to building a strong, prosperous province.

Alberta’s government is investing more than $20 million in Indigenous-led employment services that support pathways to opportunity, prosperity and self-determined success.

“Our partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations are an essential part of Alberta’s prosperity. By investing in Indigenous-led employment services, we’re not just supporting individuals – we’re strengthening communities and building a more inclusive, resilient economy in Alberta.”

Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services

“Alberta’s economy is thriving, and Indigenous Peoples are shaping its future. Their knowledge, innovation and leadership strengthen our workforce and enrich our communities. Partnering with Indigenous talent isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart investment in a stronger, more inclusive Alberta.”

Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Indigenous Relations

This funding supports Indigenous employment programs across the province to provide culturally grounded, community-driven services that connect Indigenous job seekers with the tools, training and opportunities to thrive in the workforce.

Specialized employment supports help remove barriers for Indigenous job seekers and match the needs and strengths of participants and employers. Supports include career consulting, liaising with employers and employment advisors, supporting the creation of employment opportunities, and on-the-job coaching to help participants maintain long-term, meaningful employment.

“Culturally grounded, Indigenous-led employment supports are key to advancing Indigenous participation in Alberta’s economic success. This partnership between Alberta's government and Indigenous employment services has allowed us to connect more individuals with stable, meaningful employment – creating lasting opportunity and shared prosperity.”

Lovette Ferguson, senior manager, Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society

Quick facts

  • Examples of the province’s investments in Indigenous employment supports include:
    • $4 million to the Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society
    • $1.5 million to Frog Lake Employment and Training
    • $1.5 million to Maskwacis Employment Centre Society
    • $1.2 million to Tsuut’ina Nation
    • $1.1 million to Community Futures Treaty 7
    • $1 million to Siksika Family Services Corporation
    • More than $752,900 to Saamis Employment and Training Association
    • More than $707,000 to Stoney Tribal Administration
    • Almost $613,000 to Stoney Nakota, Tsuut’ina Tribal Council
    • More than $551,300 to Aboriginal Futures Career and Training Centre
    • More than $517,200 to Piikani Employment Services
    • $300,000 to Chard Metis Community Association
    • $300,000 to Conklin Resource Development Advisory Committee
    • $211,900 to Willow Lake Métis Association
    • $180,000 to Lesser Slave Lake Indian Regional Council

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