b'JUDGESIt was really gratifying to see when you worked with communities and pushed for something that communities needed andAll four judges are business leaders then saw change actually happen,she says. in their respective fields, and all are Indigenous entities were making stridesready not only to select the best in the Ontario energy sector, and since joining CCAB Bull sees similarpitch, but to share their experiences, opportunities in the many other areas of growth required as the Canadianwisdom and mentorship with the government looks to build back better in other systems and infrastructure.budding entrepreneursWe need to ensure that support programs meet the needs of Indigenous entrepreneurs and that were advocating to government to ensure that Indigenous business can access these programs, says Bull. So often, Indigenousbusiness gets funneled into Indigenous Services Canada, and its not a government priority. CCAB was eager to support Bears Lair, both as a sponsor and provider of CCAB memberships for all the participants. Initially, Bull intended to represent CCAB as a guest judge, but the shows founderNuna Group of CompaniesGeena Jackson had other ideas. She wanted her signed on as one of the regular judges. It was a huge honour, Bull says on her reaction to being asked to be part of the core panel. The weeklong filming of the show was taxing but rewarding, with each episode introducing some inspiring entrepreneurs. The judges were put through some tough decision-making each day to determine who would be awarded the cash prize. I found it very emotional that these incredible people were putting so much there and putting their hearts out there to us. This show is incredibly inspiring,says Bull.Bears Lair is about more than Indigenous business. For Bull, it presents an opportunity to put the best andbrightest of Canadas Indigenous peoples forward with pride, and to expose this All-Weather Roads & RunwaysIce Roads & Runwaysextraordinary pool of talent to awider audience.Contract Mining Mine ReclamationDams & Frozen Core DamsCare & MaintenanceThere will be a broader audience to DikesRemote Infrastructure Planningwatch the show and see the capacity Earthworks & Site DevelopmentSite Services & Crushingand capability of these Indigenous businesspeople and the Indigenous Exploration SupportVertical Cutter Miningeconomy, she says. The general population of Canada will beable to realize the incredible opportunity that exists in partnering withor growing and supportingIndigenous business. Aboriginal BUSINESS REPORT29'