b'FORWARDCCAB: A Research LeaderA c c l a i m e d h i s t o r i a n K e n C o a t e s e x p l a i n s h o w C C A B h a s c h a n g e d t h e w a y a n a t i o n t h i n k s a b o u t I n d i g e n o u s e n t r e p r e n e u r s h i pC anadians have largely forgotten that this countrysof stereotypes that have long stopped budding Indigenous early history was built on Indigenous entrepreneur- entrepreneurs in their tracks. ship, primarily through the fur trade. First Nations, Mtis and Inuit participated extensively in conti- Most importantly, CCAB research has helped change attitudes. nent-wide trading networks, laying the economicThis past year, when an Indigenous-led proposal emerged to and eventually political foundations for Canada.purchase the TransMountain Pipeline from the federal govern-Yet this important story has largely disappeared in the fogment, the most remarkable part of this story was the complete of time, replaced by images that focus on the heavy hand oflack of public surprise at the prospect. To this day, people are colonization, government paternalism and Indigenous poverty.no longer surprised when Indigenous businesses step forward with large-scale business ventures. Together with its business Through its many research initiatives, Canadian Council forpartners, CCAB had carefully laid the groundwork for what Aboriginal Business (CCAB) is breaking down these and otherwould be the largest Indigenous commercial investment in stereotypes that continue to surround Indigenous communitiesCanadian history. Thats a major achievement.and constrain their entrepreneurs. As Canadas most impor-tant Indigenous business organization, CCAB has changedLIFTING BARRIERSthe narrative to one highlighting the fast-growing IndigenousBrushing away inaccurate stereotypes, however, is only part of economy and rapid rise of Indigenous business. Critical to thisCCABs mandate. The Council has been working with govern-effort has been its groundbreaking research work. ments and the private sector to do far more: to lift barriers to Indigenous businesses, clear hurdles, create opportunities and The Councils initial research focused largely on informingforge partnerships. It has done the background research needed Canadiansincluding governments, business, financial insti- to successfully inform constructive public policy development.tutions and the public at largeabout the changing nature of Indigenous business. In particular, the organization documentedSpecifically, CCAB is at the forefront of a national effort to ensure the rapid growth of the sector, clearing away the sticky webthat Indigenous business expands its presence in the field of 10A CCAB PUBLICATION2019'