Indigenous Entrepreneurship Course
The road to starting your own business is paved with uncertainty. MFI’s Indigenous Entrepreneurship Course (IEC) teaches Indigenous people of all ages how to develop a business plan and other key elements that can contribute to a successful business endeavour.
About the Program
With 60 hours of hands-on content and a flexible schedule, the program has been used by friendship centers, Band Councils, correctional facilities, colleges, and school boards.
There are no prerequisites for participants. They come from all walks and stages of life. Participants work through MFI’s original, accessible learning materials and walk away with a completed business plan.
The Impact
From construction companies to videography and artist cooperatives, there are many models of successful small businesses led by Indigenous entrepreneurs. Today’s Indigenous economy is estimated to be around $32 billion, with roughly 45,000 Indigenous businesses across virtually every sector.
Our Role
MFI recognizes that each Indigenous community has its own history, demographics, geography, and culture. Taking a collaborative approach, our community-led entrepreneurship program supports organizations in delivering courses that best meet the needs of different learners. MFI also recognizes the critical importance of experiential knowledge and trains and supports local instructors who do not need to be certified schoolteachers to teach the course.
Explore MFI’s virtual learning hub called The Training & Resources for Early Education & Schools (TREES) Network. TREES is a space for delivering and accessing culturally appropriate training, professional development, resources, supportive circles and peer mentorship opportunities for Indigenous and non-Indigenous learning professionals working with Indigenous children, students and families.
Collaborate with MFI
We invite all Indigenous-led organizations to connect with us. We are excited to learn more about the well-being outcomes you wish to advance for the people in your local school, community, or organization.
Support the Mission
Join MFI in creating new pathways with Indigenous Peoples that lead to a more just system by funding the critical efforts to get there.