COVER STORY CHAMPIONING ABORIGINAL PROCUREMENT CCAB RALLIES BIG BUSINESS SUPPORT FOR A NEW STRATEGY AIMED AT ENHANCING ABORIGINAL PARTICIPATION IN THE MARKETPLACE We are stronger when we work together, and more prosperous when we build as one. Time and time again, partnerships between Canadian industry and Aboriginal businesses have proven to be rewarding for all sides. Yet surprisingly, Aboriginal businesses remain vastly under-represented in the supply chains of most Canadian companies and government enterprises. CCAB is hoping that will soon change, thanks to the launch of a national Aboriginal Procurement Strategy it is spearheading, including a national campaign encouraging Canadian corporations to Supply Change. This multi-faceted Strategy was specifically designed to enhance Aboriginal participation in the procurement process. “There are supply chains across the country that are not aware of Aboriginal businesses and the value we bring to the table,” points out J.P. Gladu, CCAB’s president and CEO. “But there are also companies like Suncor, Syncrude, and Imperial Oil, who collectively spent $1 billion on Aboriginal businesses in Alberta in 2017 alone. So the interest is there, and we have success stories to share. Now is the time to push.” The idea for the Strategy was borne out of CCAB research into Aboriginal procurement in jurisdictions across Canada, as well as consultations with various companies, Aboriginal business leaders, CCAB members, and association partners. PHOTO: Collaborating on procurement: Suncor Chief Operating Officer Mark Little (left) with CCAB President & CEO J.P. Gladu BY MATTHEW BRADFORD 10 A CCAB PUBLICATION 2018