Aboriginal Business Series: Northern Ontario Opportunities and Land Use Planning

Thunder Bay, December 1st, 2010 — The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business will be hosting a one-day forum featuring expert plenary panels and speakers who will explore business opportunities in Ontario’s north and the fit between land use planning and business ventures. The “Ring of Fire” will be a major focus. The event will take place Wednesday, December 1st, 2010 at Valhalla Inn, Thunder Bay, Ontario. The day forum begins at 8:45 AM and will end at 5:00PM. An evening dinner will feature Keynote Speaker Christine Kaszyki, Assistant Deputy Minister, Ring of Fire. Economic Outlook - Northern Ontario has the largest spend of any region in Canada for mining exploration and has many mines under development. But how much is going to be spent and what does it mean for northern Ontario? This panel presentation will provide an update on Northern Ontario’s economy and planned expenditures for mining and exploration.

Opportunities for Aboriginal Business in the Natural Resource Sector - The exploration and mining industries are separate and require distinct approaches to take advantage of
business opportunities. This session will explore the products and services required from early exploration to mine development and operations. In addition, the opportunities in energy generation will be discussed which will support development in the north.

The Far North Act Overview - David de Launay, Assistant Deputy Minister, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources

Land Use Planning Panel - Where is the fit between land use planning and business opportunities? Considering recent changes to land use planning policy and legislation this panel of experts will provide a perspective of these changes. and how land use plans can be conducted with consideration of community-driven resource-based projects.

Success Stories - What are the ingredients to success? Hear how an Aboriginal business has achieved success in the exploration industry, and how mining companies have built successful relationships with Aboriginal business and communities.

Networking Reception and Dinner - Keynote Speaker: Christine Kaszycki, Assistant Deputy Minister - Ring of Fire, Ontario Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry

About the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business:
CCAB is a national member-based organization. We are a business catalyst: we make great things happen for businesses. Our members include: Aboriginal businesses, community owned economic development corporations, and Canadian corporations and businesses. We are non-partisan and receive no government funding.

CCAB’s programs and events recognize business success, and promote sustainable relationships between Aboriginal communities and the business community in Canada. CCAB programs include the Aboriginal Business Hall of Fame, the Progressive Aboriginal Relations certification program, the Foundation for the Advancement of Aboriginal Youth, andthe Aboriginal Business Mentorship Program.