technology.”
A SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
Aboriginal business is booming in Canada.
Indigenous entrepreneurs are more likely
to start businesses than others in Canada,
says Ward. “We have a growing popula-
tion and there is a huge economic upside
and opportunity for the Indigenous com-
munity and Indigenous entrepreneurs as a
whole,” he added.
Animikii is creating some of those oppor-
tunities. Due to its intensive community
involvement, Animikii became a certified B
Corporation (a certification given to com-
panies that show considerable social and
environmental accountability) earlier this
year. From scholarships to Indigenous stu-
dents for a kids’ coding camp to a bursary
program for First Nations youth who are
choosing business or technology as a ca-
reer path, Animikii is changing lives.
Additionally, the company does pro bono
work and donates both time and money to
worthy causes. Ward sits on the advisory
committee of the Bridging to Technology
program with the First Nations Technology
Council. In just 2015, Animikii helped cli-
ents from 16 non-profits, eight Indigenous
communities, five Indigenous businesses,
four health organizations and three edu-
cational institutions. The company is now
looking to attract additional opportunities
and expand in both Canada and the United
States.
animikii.com
FEBRUARY 2017
H
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