b"Free training program for future Indigenous leaders:Helping aspiring entrepreneurs unleash theircreativityA new, free online program developed with a focus on Indigenous worldviews is helping aspiring entrepreneurs aged 16 and up discover how creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship are theBellegardesfoundation for success in the business world and beyond. module discusses the importance of taking The Canadian Program for Creativity, Innovation anda respectful approach Entrepreneurship, known as the Imagineur Program, waswhen engaging in business with designed by experts at the Hill and Levene Schools of Business atIndigenous peoples, and applying the the University of Regina and a local Indigenous leader, Edmundsame vigor to preparation and research Bellegarde. The programs eight online modules offer instructionas is typically done in advance of engaging in from industry-leading instructors on topics including creativeinternational business relations.problem solving, designing a customer growth strategy, predicting financial feasibility, as well as specialized training that addresses theThere's a lot of effort that goes into understandingunique landscape of Indigenous entrepreneurship. the cultural difference, the historical context, the social differences, the demographics, and what some of those local Often, Indigenous entrepreneurs don't feel like there's a safeprotocols are in how to conduct yourself, and then to observe space for them, said instructor Edmund Bellegarde, a recognizedthat and respect those differences, he said. leader in Indigenous development, and an influential bridge builder focused on reconciliation. They don't have that sense of belonging.While the Imagineur Program has a strong focus on supporting It's one thing to build a bridge, but it's really about making the circleIndigenous entrepreneurs, it was designed for all learners aged bigger and understanding that everybody can sit together, and on16 and up, recognizing that there are many benefits to learning the same level, and have a voice. about the unique experiences and perspectives of others when Bellegarde, who also developed the programs Indigenous module,considering entering the business world.is the Founder and CEO of Kihew Consulting & Research Inc., asIf we take the strengths of multiple sides, and we braidwell as the CEO of FHQ eCommerce Ltd, a wholly owned File Hillsthem together, the braiding ideology strengthens publicQuAppelle Tribal Council company that pursues opportunities in thepolicy frameworks, strengthens business partnerships,international banking and iGaming sectors.said Bellegarde.His module discusses some of the different business and economic values and approaches, as well as overall worldviews that areThe Imagineur Program was officially launched earlierunique to Indigenous entrepreneurs. For example, while doingthis year and is offered in both English and French. After business can be viewed as transactional at times, from anregistering, participants can start when theyre readyIndigenous perspective its more relational in nature, and thatand learn at their own pace. In addition, education kits and relationship doesn't end simply because the transaction is complete. other resources are available for teachers interested in incorporating it into their classrooms.It's not just about customer relations or business relations;it's much deeper than that, he said, adding that, There's a Upon completion of the Imagineur Program, participantsresponsibility and obligation to maintain the relations and to receive a digital badge from the University of Regina thatleave something of value behind. Its not just an exchange of they can highlight on their resums, transcripts, and onlinemonetary or goods or services or information. profiles such as LinkedIn.For more information on the Imagineur Program, which was made possible with the support of a $9.3-million contribution from the Government of Canadas Skills for Success Program, visit https://hill-levene.imagineur.ca."