In Canada, indigenous digital entrepreneurs are innovating, creating businesses that empower their communities, and forging new ground. In addition to achieving financial success, leaders like Jeff Ward of Animikii and Bobbie Racette of Virtual Gurus are paving the way for others through advocacy, inclusive hiring practices, and mentorship. A new generation of entrepreneurs is emerging alongside these trailblazers, supported by microgrants and digital training programs that help level the playing field for Indigenous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Bobbie Racette and Virtual Gurus: Redefining Remote Work
The founder and CEO of Virtual Gurus, one of the top virtual assistant platforms in North America, is Bobbie Racette, a Cree-Métis businesswoman from Calgary. After being laid off, Racette started her business with just $300 and had to overcome 170 rejections before securing her first investment. Her persistence has paid off, as Virtual Gurus is now valued at over $50 million and has raised a $8.4 million Series A investment. More than 2,000 people in Canada and the US have found employment with the organization, which prioritizes hiring talent from underrepresented groups, including Indigenous peoples, LGBTQ2S+ individuals, and those with disabilities.
Racette’s dedication to inclusiveness and equity is the foundation of her leadership. Among her many honours are EY Winning Women North America and Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year. Her narrative exemplifies the strength of fortitude, ideals rooted in the community, and the use of technology to make a positive social impact. Setting a new benchmark for inclusive digital entrepreneurship, Virtual Gurus’ unique technology matches clients with qualified assistants using machine learning.
Jeff Ward and Animikii: Technology for Social Good
Based in Victoria, British Columbia, Animikii is an Indigenous technology company founded and led by Jeff Ward, an Ojibwe and Métis entrepreneur originating from Manitoba. Ward began his career in technology as a self-taught developer, working in Silicon Valley before returning to Canada to apply his knowledge for the benefit of the community. He has focused on developing digital solutions that support Indigenous organizations, enhance data sovereignty, and promote social good since founding Animikii in 2003.
Digital storytelling platforms, data management tools, and specialized software for Indigenous governments are just a few of Animikii’s projects. A strong supporter of Indigenous representation in technology, Ward is also the Vice Chair of the board of the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN). His work is a prime example of how technology can be leveraged to enhance communities and foster structural change.
Innovative Startups: New Voices in Indigenous Tech
In addition to well-known figures, a new generation of Indigenous-led businesses is gaining prominence. In Canada, organizations such as Keith McIntosh’s PLATO Testing teach and hire Indigenous software testers, while eSupply Canada offers Indigenous-owned e-commerce solutions to businesses and communities. These businesses are early adopters of digital tools; 58% of Indigenous businesses report being proactive in their adoption of technology.
In addition, EntrepreNorth’s cohort-based programs and digital app are helping Northern and Indigenous entrepreneurs create tech-enabled, sustainable enterprises, highlighting the sector’s increasing diversity and influence. These startups are promoting innovation based on Indigenous knowledge and values, while also stimulating economic growth.
Digital Training: Closing the Skills Gap
For Indigenous entrepreneurs to succeed in the IT sector, they must have access to training in digital skills. Indigenous-designed courses in coding, digital marketing, and entrepreneurship are available for free through programs like British Columbia’s Digital Horizons initiative and the First Nations Technology Council’s Digital Skills Training. Over 80% of the 420 Indigenous learners from 93 communities who received job-ready skills from Digital Horizons in 2023 went on to find jobs or other training.
With an emphasis on cultural sensitivity and community leadership, the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) has also started digital skills initiatives that have trained hundreds of Indigenous individuals in entrepreneurship, data content, and project management. These initiatives are crucial to closing the digital divide and guaranteeing fair access to Canada’s technology industry.
Micro-Grants: Levelling the Playing Field
Targeted funding and microgrants are helping Indigenous IT entrepreneurs overcome financial obstacles. For Indigenous entrepreneurs at any stage of their firm, the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) gives $5,000 non-repayable grants through the Pawâcikêwikamik Indigenous Innovation Accelerator MicroGrant. With an emphasis on culturally relevant business education and community impact, EntrepreNorth’s app and support programs also provide Northern and remote businesses with easily accessible funding and coaching.
By allowing entrepreneurs to invest in technology, training, and business development, these microgrants help bridge the gaps in resources and capital availability. These initiatives are crucial to creating a more diverse tech ecosystem, as they foster early-stage innovation.
Impact and Lessons for Indigenous Entrepreneurs
Indigenous tech entrepreneurs’ and leaders’ success emphasizes the value of community, resilience, and culturally grounded innovation. Barriers are being broken down by digital training and microgrants, enabling more Indigenous entrepreneurs to enter and take the lead in the IT industry. The importance of mentoring, the necessity of inclusive support networks, and the potential of technology to drive social and economic transformation are among the most significant lessons learned. Indigenous entrepreneurs are shaping a future where technology serves as a tool for empowerment and reconciliation, as more of them adopt digital tools.
With the help of creative funding and training initiatives, Indigenous tech entrepreneurs are setting the standard in Canada’s digital economy. Their experiences and accomplishments serve as motivation and valuable advice for others, demonstrating that Indigenous innovation can flourish nationwide with the proper support.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information intended only for informational purposes. Indigenous-SME Small Business Magazine does not endorse or guarantee any products or services mentioned. Readers are advised to conduct their research and due diligence before making business decisions.