First Nations organizations contribute over $50 million to Thunder Bay economy

According to a survey conducted by a committee of representatives from local Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) organizations, 12 NAN First Nations businesses and organizations in Thunder Bay contributed an estimated $51.8 million to the economy in the last fiscal year.
NAN presented the information at a Celebration and Contributions open house at Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School on May 7. The event was organized by NAN Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic and featured informational booths from groups like Nishnawbe-Aski Police Services, Matawa First Nations, and Northern Nishnawbe Education Council.
“We were amazed when we began to add up how much money is contributed to the economy by First Nations,” Kakegamic said. “We initially started this because we want to share with the general public how First Nations are significantly contributing to the economy of Thunder Bay.”
Thunder Bay Mayor Keith Hobbs was one of the speakers at the open house, and he made note of the fact that the estimated contribution from First Nations businesses and organizations did not include retail sales in Thunder Bay.
In a news release from NAN about the open house, it states that the findings of the survey are preliminary but data pending from 13 more organizations and the retail sector is expected to boost the total financial contributions to as much as $100 million annually.
Hobbs said that it was good to see focus put on the good things that happen in Thunder Bay regarding First Nations people.
“We are committed to making this a livable inclusive city,” Hobbs said.
“Thunder Bay is our home,” Kakegamic said during his opening remarks. “We need more positive news in Thunder Bay. Thank you for participating, exhibitors. All of you here are doing great work.”
Kakegamic explained that First Nations organizations offer a variety of professional services and hold numerous events that support the economies of urban centers.