b'CCAB RESEARCHThis optimism was tempered by the COVID-19 pandemic, which dispropor-tionately impacted Indigenous busi-nesses, notably those in natural resources, construction and services industries. In particular, Indigenous tourism opera-tors and businesses based in Indigenous communities faced numerous challenges and disruptions due to travel restrictions and closures.Despite the achievements made by Indigenous entrepreneurs before the pandemic, they continue to face unique challenges unrelated to the global health crisis. Access to qualified Indigenous employees, skills training, investment opportunities, technical expertise, and mentoring are crucial for their continued success. The urgent need for skills training initiatives is particularly notable, as two-thirds of Indigenous business owners cite difficulties finding qualified Indigenous employees. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated these concerns, with 73 per cent of Indigenous business owners reporting negative impacts even as late as December 2021, while many remain unable to take on further loans. Indigenous entre-preneurs highlight the importance of developing digital skills and embracing online sales as key strat-egies for resilience and adaptability.The resurgence of Indigenous busi-nesses in Canada presents a signif-icant economic growth and inno-vation opportunity. By providing thenecessaryresourcesand Triton is an employee-owned environmental consulting \x1frm with over 30 years ofsupport, government, corporate experience. Our staff, together with our Indigenous partnerships, bring inter-disciplinary ,expertise to every project we work on. We provide a wide range of scienti\x1fc, technical,and academic communities can and management expertise that merge to provide practical environmental solutions. empower Indigenous entrepre-Karen Baylis, Director of Indigenous Relations - kbaylis@triton-env.com neurs and contribute to a more Ian Emerson, Director of Business Development - iemerson@triton-env.com inclusive and prosperous business landscape for all.54A CCAB PUBLICATION2023'