{"id":10897,"date":"2026-01-02T20:35:10","date_gmt":"2026-01-03T04:35:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/firstnations.biz\/202606\/?p=10897"},"modified":"2026-03-19T14:50:08","modified_gmt":"2026-03-19T21:50:08","slug":"indigenous-conferences-canada","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/firstnations.biz\/202606\/blog\/indigenous-conferences-canada\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Indigenous Business Conferences in Canada"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

At Shop First Nations, we celebrate spaces where culture, community, and connection come together \u2014 and Canada\u2019s vibrant scene of Indigenous-led conferences is exactly that. Each year, gatherings focused on tourism, business, education, leadership, and community development bring people together to share knowledge, build relationships, and uplift one another. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These events serve as more than learning forums; they are foundations for economic empowerment, cultural revitalization, and long-lasting partnerships grounded in Indigenous values and worldviews. Whatever your connection \u2014 as an entrepreneur, community leader, ally, or curious supporter \u2014 these conferences offer meaningful ways to engage, grow, and contribute to the future of Indigenous success in Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Indigenous Tech Conference<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

January 20\u201321, 2026 \u2014 Vancouver, BC<\/p>\n\n\n

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The Indigenous Tech Conference took place from January 20 to 21, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia, on the traditional territories of the x\u02b7m\u0259\u03b8k\u02b7\u0259y\u0313\u0259m (Musqueam), Skwxw\u00fa7mesh (Squamish), and s\u0259lilw\u0259ta\u026c (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

This gathering brings together Indigenous innovators, entrepreneurs, knowledge keepers, and leaders in technology to explore the growing role of tech in community empowerment, economic development, and Indigenous-led innovation. The event features speakers, workshops, and conversations that highlight how technology can support sovereignty, creativity, and future-ready skills across Indigenous communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why go<\/strong>: Learn from Indigenous tech leaders, explore innovation and digital skills, and connect with partners who are shaping the future of Indigenous technology and entrepreneurship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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First Nations Agriculture & Finance Conference<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Feb 3\u20135, 2026 \u2014 Rama, ON<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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The First Nations Agriculture & Finance Conference (FNAFO) is a three-day event held on February 3\u20135, 2026, at the Casino Rama Resort in Rama, Ontario, designed to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs and leaders with knowledge on sustainable business and economic growth. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

The conference aims to explore the future of Indigenous food systems, economic sovereignty, and nation-led development. Attendees can expect to gain practical tools, insights, and connections through various activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Go:<\/strong> To gain practical business skills, learn about funding opportunities, and build meaningful connections within the Indigenous business community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Feb 17\u201319, 2026 \u2014 Edmonton, AB<\/p>\n\n\n

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The 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (#2026IITC) will be held from February 17 to 19, 2026, in Amiskwac\u00eew\u00e2skahikan, also known as Edmonton, Alberta, on Treaty 6 Territory. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

The event will take place at the Edmonton Convention Centre. One of the biggest Indigenous gatherings in the world, it brings together tourism professionals, community leaders, entrepreneurs and cultural stewards to explore innovation, sustainability and connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why go:<\/strong> Learn marketing, destination development, sustainable tourism and build partnerships across Turtle Island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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CCIB Central Business Forum & Awards Dinner (Toronto)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

February 26, 2026 \u2014 Toronto, Ontario<\/p>\n\n\n

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The Central Business Forum & Awards Dinner will take place in Toronto, Ontario in 2026 (dates to be confirmed), on the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Wendat Peoples, and within the Treaty Lands and Territory of the Williams Treaties. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

This event brings together Indigenous entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community champions for an engaging forum followed by an awards dinner celebrating outstanding Indigenous-led enterprises and initiatives. The forum offers insightful discussions, panels, and networking opportunities, while the awards dinner recognizes achievements and excellence within Indigenous business circles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why go<\/strong>: Engage with Indigenous business leaders, hear from inspiring speakers, and acknowledge the success and innovation of Indigenous enterprises at the awards celebration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Assembly of First Nations (AFN) 2026 Education Forum<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Feb 24\u201326, 2026 \u2014 Vancouver, BC<\/p>\n\n\n

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The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) 2026 Education Forum will take place from February 24 to 26, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia, on the traditional territories of the x\u02b7m\u0259\u03b8k\u02b7\u0259y\u0313\u0259m (Musqueam), Skwxw\u00fa7mesh (Squamish), and s\u0259lilw\u0259ta\u026c (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Hosted by the Assembly of First Nations, the forum brings together educators, community leaders, language champions, and policy makers to share knowledge and strengthen Indigenous-led education systems. The event focuses on education leadership, language revitalization, and lifelong learning strategies that support strong, culturally grounded communities. This forum focuses on education leadership, language revitalization and lifelong learning strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why go: <\/strong>Connect with Indigenous educators and leaders, share best practices, and learn strategies that support strong, culturally grounded education and language revitalization in communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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NABOC Vancouver 2026 & Government Buyers Expo<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Mar 24\u201325, 2026 \u2014 Richmond, BC<\/p>\n\n\n

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The National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference (NABOC) Vancouver 2026 & Government Buyers Expo will take place from March 24 to 25, 2026, in Richmond, British Columbia, on the traditional territories of the x\u02b7m\u0259\u03b8k\u02b7\u0259y\u0313\u0259m (Musqueam), Skwxw\u00fa7mesh (Squamish), and s\u0259lilw\u0259ta\u026c (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

The event will bring together Indigenous businesses, government representatives, and industry decision-makers to foster partnerships, joint ventures, and supplier opportunities. As a key platform for connection and collaboration, NABOC provides space to learn about procurement processes and explore business opportunities across a wide range of sectors. The National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference connects Indigenous businesses with government and industry buyers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why go:<\/strong> Business procurement, government contracting, trade show networking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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CCIB Indigenous Procurement Event<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

March 26, 2026 \u2014 Vancouver, BC<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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This gathering brings together Indigenous businesses, procurement professionals, government buyers, and corporate partners to focus on expanding opportunities for Indigenous suppliers and strengthening inclusive supply chains. The event highlights best practices in procurement, relationship building, and accessing contracting opportunities that support Indigenous economic participation and growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This year\u2019s featured panel will include Certified Indigenous Businesses sharing real-world procurement experiences and recommendations for buyers. Among the speakers is Rob Schulz<\/strong>, Founder of Shop First Nations<\/strong>, joining fellow Indigenous business leaders to discuss how Indigenous suppliers are navigating supply chains and accessing new contracting opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why go:<\/strong> Learn how procurement processes work, connect with buyers and partners, and explore real opportunities for Indigenous businesses to secure contracts and grow within diverse markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Indigenous Economic Pathways (IEP)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Various Events Throughout the Year \u2014 BC & Alberta<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Indigenous Economic Pathways (IEP) is an Indigenous grassroots non-profit that brings people together through events focused on economic development, collaboration, and Nation-led growth. Their gatherings create space for Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs, communities, and partners to share knowledge, strengthen relationships, and explore sustainable futures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Key events include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n