Empowering Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurs: IYE Workshop Coming to Nicola Valley

Indigenous youth in the Nicola Valley will have the opportunity to explore entrepreneurship, develop business skills, and access funding through an upcoming Indigenous
Youth Entrepreneurs (IYE) workshop, hosted by Community Futures Nicola Valley in partnership with the Community Futures Development Corporation of Central Interior First Nations (CFDC of CIFN).

The workshop will take place on Thursday, Aug.  14, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) and is open to Indigenous individuals between the ages of 18 and 39 who are interested in starting or growing their own business.

Led by Keante Joe, Business Support Officer at CFDC of CIFN, the session will cover:

• An introduction to entrepreneurship
• How to assess the viability of a business idea
• Financial fundamentals, including good vs. bad debt and understanding needs vs. wants
• A business planning overview

Following the workshop, participants will have access to 1-on-1 support from Keante, including assistance with business planning, marketing strategies, and applying for an IYE loan of up to $25,000.

“I’m incredibly excited to launch the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneurship Program, a space where youth can dream big and build boldly,” said Keante Joe, Business Services Officer for Youth at CFDC of CIFN. “You don’t need a lot of equity to get started, just the courage to begin and the right support behind you. This program is about breaking down barriers and uplifting voices so that young Indigenous entrepreneurs can create businesses rooted in culture, community, and vision.”

The IYE program, funded through the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), is a multi-year initiative aimed at empowering Indigenous youth with the tools,
mentorship, and financial support needed to turn their ideas into sustainable ventures.

To register or learn more, youth are encouraged to reach out to Keante directly at Keante@cfdcofcifn.com.