Award Category: Indigenous Business Award

RTS Referral Tracking Systems is a land referral data management software designed to create a joint forestry-land technology solutions for First Nation communities. A partnership between DR Systems, a 20-year old software development company, along with the Neskonlith Band and the Adams Lake Band has established this venture. RTS is installed and operational at 12 sites throughout BC with others in the planning phase. The software product, designed by First Nations for First Nations, is a viable solution to the hundreds of land referrals being received at band offices. The partnership has proven to be an outstanding opportunity that is paying dividends, not just in making referral management easier but in creating new opportunities for Aboriginal communities throughout the province.

Takaya Developments is a joint venture of the Tsleil-Waututh First Nation and Native Strategic Investments Ltd. Together, they have built nearly 800 homes in the Raven Woods community of North Vancouver over the past 15 years. When deciding to develop a residential community, the Tsleil-Waututh First Nation strove to preserve the natural setting. With their partners, they created quality homes, surrounded by the lush forest and great amenities of the North Shore. Takaya was the first business in North Vancouver to develop residential units on lease-hold land. It was an exceptional vision, coupled with a commitment to creating a brand recognized for quality and professionalism.