editor’s
letter
As we get closer to the 150th celebration of Canada’s confederaton, the provincial and federal gov-
ernments agreement to remove trade barriers between provinces is a perfect birthday gift. The
new internal trade agreement will essentially break down barriers—making business within the
country easier by allowing an open market for services. According to the Canadian Federation of
Independent Business, “Prior to this new strategy, it was possible for European companies to have
better access to Canadian trade opportunities than a business in a neighbouring province.” By re-
ducing the cost of doing business in Canada, the new deal will potentially add billions of dollars to
the economy every year. Any regularization that allows for streamlined business within the coun-
try is good for Canada, and is applauded by this publication.
This month’s cover story exemplifies the limitless opportunities that result from barriers being
removed. Ishkonigan has carved out a name for itself as Canada’s go-to consulting firm for effective
partnerships with Indigenous communities, government and Corporate Canada. Uniquely quali-
fied in this world, Phil Fontaine was National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations before he
started Ishkongian, and has dedicated himself to increasing Indigenous involvement in the Cana-
dian economy. In our exclusive conversation, Fontaine lays out the new landscape for Indigenous
and Corporate Canada partnerships—particularly in resource-based projects—and what all par-
ties have to gain when parties have a level playing field.
As always, we are proud to champion Canadian businesses that are excelling in their industries.
SMS Engineering is leading Manitoba’s industrial green construction, and Parkin Architects are
employing philosophy, psychology, and science in their designs to impact society in a conscious
way. The stories behind these companies are as compelling as they are unique, and we hope you
enjoy them.
Anna Guy
Editor
MAY 2017
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