The First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Economic Development Commission was pleased to welcome more than thirty Indigenous women entrepreneurs from across Quebec on November 7^th and 8^th as part of its Noce Wakoc – The path of the Indigenous woman entrepreneur event.

The event, which was held at the Escad Hotel Quartier DIX30 in Brossard, aimed to bring together Indigenous women entrepreneurs to exchange, learn and develop their business networks. This gave both start-up and established entrepreneurs the chance to equip themselves for the continuation of their entrepreneurial journeys. It was also a great opportunity for experienced entrepreneurs to help these women by sharing the knowledge they have acquired through years of practice.

Course of the event

The participants were welcomed on Tuesday, November 7^th by the FNQLEDC team in the main room of the Escad Hotel for the welcoming remarks and opening prayer followed by a first panel to officially launch the event, which was led by Widia Larivière, Marie St-Gelais and Sylvie Bernard.

The Indigenous women entrepreneurs were subsequently split up into two groups — start-up entrepreneurs and established entrepreneurs — so that they could subsequently follow a series of workshops adapted to the respective needs of the two groups. The day ended with a networking bingo activity followed by a cocktail reception that gave entrepreneurs an opportunity to chat with

each other.

The day of November 8^th kicked off with a sharing circle. Then, throughout the day, numerous workshops and discussion circles on various themes such as work-life balance, financial management and the myths and realities of starting a business were presented. The day and the event concluded with a closing panel as well as a moment of sharing and thanks.

The FNQLEDC would like to thank all the Indigenous women entrepreneurs who, thanks to their participation, allowed this event to be held. To view our company portraits, we invite you to visit our blog.