The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) have launched a landmark multi-part report series, A Way Forward: Ontario’s Path Towards Economic Reconciliation, Equity and Inclusive Growth, aimed at providing businesses with a practical roadmap for advancing reconciliation and fostering inclusive growth for Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Actionable Steps for Lasting Change

Released on April 16, the first report in the series focuses on people—the foundation of economic growth—by outlining concrete actions to expand Indigenous access to education and employment, foster inclusive workplaces, and strengthen Indigenous leadership. The initiative aligns with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #92, urging businesses to create equitable opportunities and embed reconciliation into their strategies.

Key recommendations include:

• Expanding Indigenous Access to Education and Employment:
  Establishing dedicated pathways for Indigenous candidates, improving financial aid and student support, and adopting skills-based hiring practices that recognize lived experience and alternative qualifications.

• Creating Inclusive and Culturally Supportive Workplaces:
  Implementing mandatory training on Indigenous history and intercultural skills, supporting remote work for Indigenous employees in rural and remote communities, and fostering environments that respect Indigenous perspectives125.

• Strengthening Indigenous Leadership and Governance:
  Increasing Indigenous representation in corporate leadership, establishing advisory councils with resources and accountability, and integrating Indigenous voices into business and public policy decisions.

A Roadmap for Business

Daniel Tisch, President and CEO of the OCC, emphasized the urgency of moving beyond words to action:

“Indigenous people are the youngest and fastest-growing population in Canada, yet systemic barriers continue to limit access to education, employment, and leadership opportunities. Businesses tell us they see reconciliation as an economic opportunity, but often don’t know where to start, or where to go. In this series, the Ontario Chamber and the CCIB aim to give them a roadmap.”

 

Tabatha Bull, President and CEO of the CCIB, highlighted the collective responsibility of economic reconciliation:

“The launch of A Way Forward is a step toward a more equitable future, providing reconciliation pathways, addressing the systemic barriers that Indigenous businesses and communities face, and highlighting the importance of Indigenous inclusion in Ontario and across Canada’s economic success.”

Looking Ahead

Future reports in the series will address finance and capital, procurement, lands and resources, and infrastructure and communities—key pillars identified in the National Indigenous Economic Strategy. The OCC and CCIB encourage employers, educational institutions, and governments to assess and implement the actionable steps outlined in the reports to build partnerships and create opportunities where Indigenous talent and leadership can thrive.

This initiative is grounded in Indigenous knowledge and experience, with contributions from an Indigenous Advisory Committee and the CCIB Research team, and is supported by leading Canadian businesses and organizations.

A Way Forward marks a significant step for Ontario’s business community, providing the tools and guidance needed to make economic reconciliation a reality across the province and beyond.