In February 2025, the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation (IPF) journeyed to Whitehorse, Yukon, as part of our Walking Together Tour, an initiative aimed at listening, learning, and collaborating with Indigenous entrepreneurs and economic leaders across Canada. This visit was made possible by the generous hospitality of Elaine Chambers, CEO of däna Näye Ventures, whose organization has been at the forefront of empowering Indigenous businesses in the Yukon through financial services and developmental finance.
A Landscape of Resilience and Innovation
Whitehorse, nestled within the traditional territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and the Ta'an Kwäch'än Council, is a place where entrepreneurial spirit thrives amid breathtaking landscapes and deep-rooted traditions. Walking through the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, the energy was palpable as entrepreneurs shared their dreams, stories, and challenges. The people we met were not just business owners; they were cultural stewards, innovators, and leaders building pathways for future generations.
The region benefits from a strong network of support organizations, including an Indigenous Financial Institution (IFI), EntrepreNorth, and First Nations-led initiatives that provide culturally aligned business guidance. However, gaps remain, particularly in financial accessibility, digital literacy, and sector-specific business development.
Empowering Entrepreneurs: The Role of däna Näye Ventures
däna Näye Ventures stands as a cornerstone of Indigenous business development in the Yukon. By offering financial services, business advisory support, and mentorship, the organization has helped many Indigenous entrepreneurs turn their ideas into thriving enterprises. Elaine Chambers shared insights into the organization’s mission:
“Access to capital is one of the greatest challenges for Indigenous entrepreneurs. Our goal is not just to provide funding but to ensure businesses receive the guidance and mentorship needed to succeed long-term. We walk alongside entrepreneurs as they build sustainable futures for themselves and their communities.”
Stories of Indigenous Innovation
One of the most inspiring parts of our visit was the opportunity to meet some of the region’s leading entrepreneurs.
Nicole Nielsen, co-founder of Yukon Roots, a business dedicated to connecting people with the land through immersive outdoor experiences. Nicole shared how support from Tourism Yukon and Champagne Aishihik First Nation played a pivotal role in helping her navigate the complexities of launching a business.
“There are so many people in place who genuinely want to see us succeed,” Nicole reflected. “The connections we’ve made and the support we’ve received have been incredible. It’s about building something bigger than ourselves—a way to share the beauty and culture of the Yukon with others.”
She described the first time she took a group out on the land, how they felt the power of the landscape and the stories it held, and how she knew then that she was on the right path. Her words echoed a broader sentiment shared by many entrepreneurs we met: success is not just about business growth; it is about fostering community, preserving culture, and creating opportunities for future generations.
We also had the opportunity to connect with Jordan Peterson, President and CEO of Affinity North, a business that provides strategic consulting services and economic development solutions tailored for Indigenous communities. Jordan spoke about the importance of Indigenous-led economic strategies and the role of technology in bridging gaps for businesses in remote areas.
“We are at a pivotal time where Indigenous businesses can not only participate in the economy but lead it,” Jordan shared. “The key is ensuring that Indigenous entrepreneurs have the right tools, training, and access to capital to compete and thrive.”
His vision for Affinity North extends beyond individual business success—he aims to create a network where Indigenous entrepreneurs support one another, share resources, and drive sustainable economic growth within their communities.
Challenges and Opportunities in Indigenous Entrepreneurship
While the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Yukon is rich with support systems, challenges remain. Key themes emerged from our discussions:
- Navigating Available Programs: Many entrepreneurs struggle to access resources due to the complexity of existing programs. A more streamlined, "one-stop shop" approach is needed.
- Sector-Specific Gaps: While artisans and cultural businesses receive strong support, service-based businesses face hurdles in finding tailored programs.
- Capacity and Infrastructure: In rural and remote areas, limited internet access, high service delivery costs, and a lack of business mentorship hinder growth.
- Funding Accessibility: High-interest rates and limited financing options make it difficult for businesses to scale effectively.
- Defining Success: Each entrepreneur and community has a unique vision of success, reinforcing the need for flexible, culturally aligned support structures.
- AI and Digital Literacy: Entrepreneurs need training in emerging technologies to stay competitive and access broader markets.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening the Ecosystem
Our time in Whitehorse underscored the importance of continued investment in Indigenous entrepreneurship. Several recommendations emerged from our conversations:
- Expand Training & Mentorship: Creating a "train-the-trainer" model can strengthen local expertise and peer mentorship networks, with particular emphasis on longer term mentorship opportunities.
- Increase Financial Accessibility: More funding pathways, including micro-loans and grant programs, can help businesses launch and scale effectively.
- Enhance Digital Access & AI Literacy: Ensuring businesses can leverage technology to reach wider markets is crucial for sustainability.
- Policy Advocacy & Awareness: Strengthening Indigenous voices in policy discussions can help shape economic systems that work for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
- Youth Engagement: Introducing entrepreneurship in schools and community programs can inspire the next generation of Indigenous business leaders.
- Infrastructure Investments: Improving internet connectivity and business hubs in rural areas can help bridge the gap for remote entrepreneurs.
- Centralized Resource Hub: Developing a one-stop shop for Indigenous entrepreneurs to access funding opportunities, mentorship programs, training materials, and business support services can streamline navigation within the ecosystem and ensure equitable access to available resources.
Walking Together Toward a Thriving Future
The Yukon is home to an entrepreneurial ecosystem deeply connected to the land, culture, and community. The lessons learned in Whitehorse reinforce the power of Indigenous economic development and the role that organizations like däna Näye Ventures play in ensuring Indigenous businesses flourish.
As we wrapped up our visit, we felt a deep sense of admiration for the entrepreneurs and leaders shaping the future of Indigenous business in the Yukon.
At IPF, we are committed to amplifying these insights, building strategic partnerships, and fostering a future where Indigenous entrepreneurship thrives. As we continue our Walking Together Tour, we are reminded that prosperity is not just about economic success—it is about empowerment, self-determination, and the collective strength of Indigenous communities.
We are honoured to have shared this journey with our partners in Whitehorse and look forward to the paths ahead.
Thank you to the following organizations who generously gave their time to connect with us during our visit: däna Näye Venture, EntrepreNorth, Kwanlin Dün First Nation, FH Collins Secondary School, Affinity North, Yukon University, Yukon Roots, Yukon First Nation Youth Summit Planning Committee