Building Wealth for First Nations as Landowners

Across Turtle Island (North America), First Nations are reclaiming economic space and redefining wealth on their own terms. Land ownership presents not only cultural and spiritual significance but also immense potential for economic growth. Realizing this potential requires vision, governance, and partnerships that align with Indigenous values and priorities.

At Énska, we believe that real estate development should be rooted in self-determination and authentic partnerships. Ones that respect Indigenous rights and community aspirations. This approach is the key to intergenerational wealth and sustainable development.

Land as a Foundation for Economic Empowerment

First Nations across Canada possess diverse land holdings, including reserve lands, Treaty Land Entitlement (TLE) lands, and fee-simple acquisitions. Each type offers unique opportunities and challenges in terms of valuation, governance, and strategic planning.

This land can serve as a foundation for various strategic development initiatives such as sustainable housing, commercial enterprises, tourism, and renewable energy projects that will benefit Indigenous communities in the long-term.

Navigating Challenges and Building Capacity

Many Nations face barriers in real estate development, including access to capital, lack of in-house expertise, and complex regulatory environments. Engaging in strategic partnerships can help mitigate these challenges by providing resources, knowledge transfer, and shared risk.

For instance, some First Nations have formed development corporations that ensure majority ownership in partnerships. This allows them to maintain control and benefit equitably from joint ventures. And these equitable partnership models facilitate capacity building and economic empowerment within the community.

Take the example of Willow Cree Development Corporation* (Beardy’s & Okemasis Cree Nation) and FLFN Ventures* (Fishing Lake First Nation). Neither had significant business experience before 2017, but both recognized the potential in contract opportunities related to the BHP Jansen potash mine. By working together and forming strategic partnerships with the real estate industry, they were able to bid on large-scale contracts and build internal capacity over time.

These Nations didn’t just chase short-term contracts—they built a model for long-term learning and control. It’s a blueprint for how partnerships can uplift a Nation rather than overshadow it.

Principles of Authentic Partnerships

Authentic partnerships are built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to capacity building. Key principles include:

Equitable Ownership: Structuring partnerships to ensure majority Indigenous ownership and control.
Capacity Building: Fostering knowledge transfer and training to build internal expertise.
Respect for Indigenous Rights: Ensuring that development initiatives align with the community's values and priorities.

These principles help create partnerships that are not only profitable but also sustainable and respectful of Indigenous sovereignty.

Pathways to Building Wealth

Building wealth through real estate involves:

Strong Governance: Separate business and politics by establishing transparent and accountable structures to manage the project.
Strategic Planning: Developing comprehensive plans that align with community goals and market opportunities.
Leveraging Partnerships: Engaging with values aligned partners to access capital, build capacity, and access to markets.

By focusing on these areas, First Nations can create sustainable economic development that benefits current and future generations.

From Revenue to Real Wealth

Building true wealth means more than revenue. It’s about creating Nation-owned assets, land-based plans, and governance structures that stand the test of time.

Des Nedhe Group*, the business arm of English River First Nation, used their 1992 TLE settlement to establish an urban reserve outside Saskatoon. From there, they built a diversified portfolio of businesses in energy, construction, and property management. They also transitioned business leadership to an independent board which kept their political leadership separate and ensured continuity of their vision.

This separation of governance and business allowed Des Nedhe to withstand setbacks and keep growing. It’s a lesson for other Nations that strong systems today protect future generations.

Énska's Role in Supporting First Nations

We are dedicated to supporting Nations in unlocking the potential of their lands. Whether guiding independent development or facilitating connections with aligned partners, we offer expertise in land assembly, governance, planning, sourcing capital and finding values aligned development partners.

Our approach is rooted in listening, transparency, and collaboration, ensuring that each Nation's unique context and aspirations are respected and advanced.

For First Nations ready to explore the potential of their lands for development, Énska is here to support your journey toward economic empowerment and self-determination.

For potential partners seeking to engage respectfully and effectively with Indigenous communities, we can guide you in building authentic, mutually beneficial relationships.

Together, we can create developments that honour Indigenous rights, build community wealth, and lead to sustainable growth.

*Case study data credit to the Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy at the University of Saskatchewan Indigenous Leadership: Governance and Development Project.