A strong foundation in financial knowledge is critical for the success of entrepreneurs. This report is the first in a series funded by the McConnell Foundation and aims to provide data on the current state of Indigenous entrepreneurs’ financial knowledge and well-being. Informed by a roundtable discussion and values survey, our 2025 National Indigenous Business Survey surveyed 1,100 Indigenous businesses.

Most participants (97%) rated themselves as knowledgeable about finance, yet 47% wanted additional training or resources, and 41% learned through on-the-job experience rather than formal training. While 65% identified overall economic conditions as a major obstacle to growth, 37% were motivated to start their business to support their community or help others. Indigenous people, communities, and organizations should be at the forefront of any educational resources, alongside developing customizable, online introductory, analytical, and in-community programming.