been a barrier to First Nations, Métis and Inuit
communities across Canada. IBC initially start-
ed in the agricultural sector but diversified as
opportunities in other areas materialized.
On a mission to ensure every viable First Na-
tion entrepreneur has access to capital, IBC
“creates economic development through lend-
ing and financial services to First Nation’s indi-
viduals and businesses.” In its three decades,
IBC has helped fund over 2,500 businesses, di-
rectly and indirectly contributing to 7,000 jobs
in Western Canada.
SIKSIKA FIRST NATION
IBC has established a pioneering relationship
with the Siksika First Nation, one that Rolling-
son believes is a viable model for other First
Nation communities. Along with a $700,000
injection from the Alberta government, the
Siksika Nation created a total fund of $2.7 mil-
lion for Siksika members to grow or build their
business. IBC’s goal is to do three things with
this fund. “We believe we can maintain their
capital and pay a small return,” says Rolling-
son. “But the most important thing this ac-
complishes is supporting the Siksika commu-
nity members to participate in employment,
SEPTEMBER 2018 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA 7
