Celebrate Indigenous success, while sharing ideas, exploring opportunities, and networking.
In-Person Events
February 18, 2026
ROUNDTABLE INVITE to CCIB MEMBERS & CERTIFIED INDIGENOUS BUSINESSES
As intellectual property (IP) programs evolve, supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs in protecting their Traditional Knowledge and businesses remains essential.
CCIB, in partnership with ElevateIP Alberta, invites all Certified Indigenous Businesses (CIBs) and CCIB members to an IP roundtable in Edmonton. The session will gather input to help shape future IP programs that are more inclusive and better reflect Indigenous values, address gaps in mainstream IP systems, and strengthen support for protecting Indigenous Knowledge and cultural expressions.
In-person participation is encouraged, with a virtual option available. Insights will guide CCIB and ElevateIP Alberta in developing culturally grounded, Indigenous-led IP supports. Register by Feb. 11, 2026. Please note that an honorarium and lunch will be provided for in-person participants.
February 26, 2026
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN for CCIB's Central Business Forum & Awards Dinner in Toronto!
Secure your early bird ticket rate & discounted hotel rate for the Central Business Forum & Awards Dinner in Toronto on Feb. 26, 2026. The theme for this year’s business forums is Rooted in Purpose, Growing through Connection and will explore pathways for economic growth, shared learning, and meaningful partnerships.
The Forum will bring together Indigenous businesses, industry leaders and community partners for engaging sessions, networking opportunities and timely conversations that advance Indigenous entrepreneurship and leadership.
In the evening, we will come together to honour the recipients of the Young Indigenous Entrepreneur Award and the Business Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating their achievements and contributions to Indigenous prosperity.
Registration is now open. Get your tickets today!
March 26, 2026
REGISTRATION NOW OPEN for Supply Change's Indigenous Procurement Event in Vancouver!
CCIB is pleased to share that the Supply Change team will once again be hosting another exciting Indigenous Procurement Event.
Join Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders, industry experts and business professionals for a full day of Indigenous Procurement Panel Discussions, Practice Your Pitch and Indigenous Business Tradeshow.
Walk away with fresh insights, valuable contacts and practical strategies to advance Indigenous business opportunities within Canada’s supply chain.
Discounted room rates are now available at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre, so book before Feb. 23 at 11:59 p.m. PST.
June 4, 2026
SAVE THE DATE for CCIB 2026 Events & Award Celebrations!
CCIB is looking forward to all that’s happening in 2026! Our upcoming in-person events are all about coming together to discover ways to grow your business, build meaningful connections and strengthen Indigenous reconciliation efforts. We are excited to continue hosting events across Canada, so be sure to mark your calendar to be a part of these important conversations.
Stay tuned for more information about the upcoming Central Business Forum & Awards Dinner happening in Toronto on February 26, followed by the Indigenous Women in Leadership (IWIL) & Award Dinner in Calgary on June 4. After that, we will return to Vancouver for the Indigenous Relations Forum & PAIR Awards on October 14, followed by the West Coast Business Forum & Awards Dinner on October 15.
Stay tuned! More information is coming soon.
Virtual Events
These events provide opportunities to connect and learn with participants from across the country, including rural and remote Indigenous business members.
February 11, 2026 | 12 – 1:30 p.m. EST
LEARN ABOUT The Power of the Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations Program
New to CCIB’s Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR) program, or looking to deepen your understanding? Join us for a dynamic and informative PAIR webinar hosted by the PAIR team.
You’ll learn how the program helps both Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations foster respectful, sustainable, and impactful partnerships with Indigenous communities.
February 12, 2026 | 1 – 2 p.m. EST
EXPLORE THE VALUE of Your CCIB Membership
Curious what CCIB membership can do for your business? As a CCIB member, you’ll gain access to a dynamic national network of Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses, programs, and partnerships designed to elevate your business’s scale, visibility, and impact. Join the Membership team to learn more about CCIB’s tools, services, and programs.
Amplify your voice and discover how to make the most of your membership while exploring the many benefits and opportunities available.
February 20, 2026 | 1 – 3 p.m. EST
CERTIFIED INDIGENOUS BUSINESSES get help with your IP
Do you need help with your intellectual property? CCIB’s research team and ElevateIP Alberta invite you to their Indigenous IP Café webinar and to register for free one-on-one consultations.
This session will provide a foundational overview of IP, designed to help Certified Indigenous Businesses (CIBs) build a basic understanding before booking a one-on-one IP consultation. The webinar will discuss IP protections related to Indigenous entrepreneurship, Traditional Knowledge, and cultural expressions, and will include a Q&A to prepare participants for the next steps.
March 26, 2026 | 2 – 3 p.m. EST
FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS for Indigenous entrepreneurs webinar
CCIB’s Tools for Indigenous Business (TIB) team would like to invite you to their upcoming webinar that focuses on financial solutions that support Indigenous entrepreneurs. This informative webinar will explore culturally relevant financial solutions for Indigenous entrepreneurs, which aim to strengthen Indigenous economic empowerment.
Be there as facilitator, Hosna Kadary, National Market Leader from BMO, along with other BMO advisors, as they walk through the financial solutions that are open to Indigenous entrepreneurs in starting and growing their businesses.
The team will share tailored financial solutions, culturally relevant resources, and programs designed to strengthen Indigenous economic empowerment and community prosperity.
Awards
Each year, CCIB celebrates outstanding individuals and businesses by presenting awards that highlight the vital contributions Indigenous entrepreneurs, leaders and businesses make to the Canadian business landscape.
Indigenous Business Lifetime Achievement Award
This award honors exceptional Indigenous business leaders from across the country who have reached advanced stages in their careers and have established a lasting legacy. It recognizes their lifelong contributions to business, community, culture, and the broader Indigenous economy.
Young Indigenous Entrepreneur Award
This award highlights the enterprising spirit of Indigenous entrepreneurs under the age of 35 who are driving the Indigenous economy forward. It recognizes their innovative spirit, business acumen, leadership, and positive impact on their communities. Individuals can self-nominate, and this prestigious award comes with a $10,000 cash prize to benefit your business.
Indigenous Women in Leadership Award
Indigenous women have long held roles of leadership and strength in traditional life. Today, their tenacity and determination continue to serve as a powerful testament to their crucial role in preserving culture and traditions. Nominees are influential leaders and mentors in Indigenous business. These women are deeply engaged in their communities, and their work has significantly contributed to improving the lives of Indigenous people.
Award for Excellence in Indigenous Relations
This award recognizes an individual who has made exceptional contributions to fostering positive and meaningful relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Nominees are never satisfied with things as they are. They always look to improve outcomes for Indigenous peoples, building bridges between Canadian society and Indigenous communities. Open to all Canadians.
Indigenous Business of the Year (NEW)
The new Indigenous Business of the Year Award honors the achievements and contributions of an Indigenous business that significantly supports and enriches the economic, social, and cultural well-being of Indigenous communities.
Aboriginal Economic Development Corporation Award (Retired)
This award is no longer active and has been replaced by the Indigenous Business of the Year Award. You can click on this link to view the previous winners of this award.
Sponsor an Event
Sponsors are a key component of CCIB’s events, and there are many opportunities to either headline as a lead sponsor or support a specific element of an upcoming forum. Sponsoring is easy and benefits include recognition, marketing, speaking opportunities and more.
