Our Creation Story
Indigenous Peoples have always been innovative. The very story of our survival demonstrates our ingenuity and resilience. In 2015, there was a re-awakening to Indigenous innovation, and First Nation, Inuit and Metis leaders and community members set out a plan to support Indigenous Peoples with a dedicated program to spark a new generation of Indigenous innovation in Canada. Supported by these Indigenous leaders, the McConnell Foundation and Grand Challenges Canada, the Indigenous Innovation Initiative was born. The purpose of the Initiative is to support and grow innovative First Nation, Inuit and Metis businesses and social enterprises from across Canada’s urban, rural, remote and Northern communities.