Bruce Power is signing a memorandum of understanding with a company to look at business opportunities for community members of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation.
Bruce Power says they signed with Indigenous-owned eSupply Canada, which is a distributor of office, janitorial, and industrial supplies. It is owned by Steven Vanloffeld of Saugeen First Nation, and Glenn Wheeler of Qualipu First Nation.
The memorandum of understanding will help both Bruce Power and eSupply Canada identify how they collaborate and enhance mutual business development opportunities, while promoting Saugeen First Nation participation in the development.
It will also look into opportunities for development of franchise opportunities and training for members of Saugeen First Nation and Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation, as well as funding for the engagement of a Master of Business Administration student to assist with business planning, an oversight committee, and community funding opportunities.
Vanloffeld says, “Bruce Power and eSupply Canada share an aligned vision of empowering Indigenous communities and we look forward to exploring these opportunities together.”
President and CEO of Bruce Power Mike Rencheck adds they are committed to creating more employment and economic development opportunities in the communities which surround the Bruce Power site.
“This includes our commitment to our local Indigenous communities and the work of our Indigenous Relations Supplier Network, establishing 2017 to ensure local Indigenous communities are able to participate fully in the business development, procurement, and economic activities taking place at Bruce Power,” says Rencheck.
