Photo: 2022 IBA recipient, Sasuchan Development Corp & IBA alumnus, Nolan McAllister
Beginning its fifteenth annual offering in 2023, the Indigenous Business Award (IBA) program continues its mission to recognize and celebrate excellence in Indigenous business throughout British Columbia. Sharing powerful stories of innovation and persistence – stories which serve to inspire other Indigenous entrepreneurs as they forge their own path to excellence.
These awardee stories have been captured on film by BC Achievement, to serve as both a tool for the awardees to use to advance their business venture, and to serve as inspiration to others of the commitment and possibilities of Indigenous entrepreneurship.
In shining a light on BC’s Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses, BC Achievement has illuminated aspects of their work which create economic opportunity, increase Indigenous representation, and foster cultural resurgence in communities across the province.
“I represent my ancestors that came before me, walk beside me and will come after me. I am proud to represent the Indigenous population, women in business and the category for Young Entrepreneur of the Year.” Ashley Kucher, Dark Arc Welding Inc.
In 2022 a total of eight Indigenous businesses, entrepreneurs, partnership entities and community-owned enterprises were recognized from across the province, joining more than 200 distinguished alumni to be honoured since its launch in 2008.
The short films produced on each awardee since 2014 are part of an online archive library which can be viewed on BC Achievement’s YouTube channel.
Watch the stories of these Indigenous Business Award alumni who belong to a vibrant community, are bound by purpose, and are working towards a better future.
Watch the films of the 2022 IBA recipients here, and please share:
Young Entrepreneur of the Year:
Dark Arc Welding Inc., Dawson Creek
Business of the Year – one-to-two person enterprise:
dk Architecture, North Vancouver
Business of the Year – three-to-ten person enterprise:
Business of the Year – 11+ person enterprise:
Warrior Plumbing, North Vancouver
Community-Owned Business of the Year – one entity:
M’i nuw’ilum DBA Cheanuh Marina, Sooke
Community-Owned Business of the Year – two or more entities:
Sasuchan Development Corporation, Takla Landing
Business Partnership of the Year:
Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd., Williams Lake
Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement:
Chief David Jimmie, Chilliwack
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.