Business
The Business program area at the BC First Nations Forestry Council focuses on supporting economic development and Nation-led forestry ventures. It helps First Nations build and strengthen community-owned businesses, create partnerships grounded in consent and mutual benefit, and identify opportunities for growth. This work is about more than economics—it’s about self-determination, sustainability, and long-term community well-being.
Business
The Business program area at the BC First Nations Forestry Council focuses on supporting economic development and Nation-led forestry ventures. It helps First Nations build and strengthen community-owned businesses, create partnerships grounded in consent and mutual benefit, and identify opportunities for growth. This work is about more than economics—it’s about self-determination, sustainability, and long-term community well-being.
BUSINESSCONNECT
BusinessConnect is an initiative under the Business program that helps First Nations explore, plan, and implement forestry-related business opportunities. Whether you’re launching a forestry venture, seeking partners, or navigating available supports, BusinessConnect can supply you and your community with the tools, people, and resources needed. Fill out the form below to share your stories or goals and be matched with relevant opportunities, funding, or support.
For First Nations
BusinessConnect helps First Nations identify, access, and advance opportunities in the forest sector — whether those opportunities are business-driven, community-based, or partnership-focused.
We work with willing participants who prioritize forest-sector engagement. Some Nations use the information and tools we provide to move forward independently. Others choose to connect with our team for additional support, exploring options, building relationships, and confidently taking the next steps.
Our role is to support First Nations-led progress through strategic connections, practical guidance, and a shared commitment to long-term outcomes.
Whether you’re ready to lead or looking to collaborate, the choice is yours. We’re here when you need us.
For Industry, Funders, and Subject-Matter Experts
BusinessConnect welcomes subject matter experts, funders, and businesses who align with First Nations’ goals in the forest sector.
We create space for collaboration that’s guided by respect, relevance, and readiness. This means connecting Nations with partners who bring more than just technical capacity—partners who understand the value of First Nation leadership, listen, and commit to building relationships over time.
As a partner, you will:
- Learn about Nation-defined priorities
- Explore areas where your expertise or investment can add value
- Participate in a structured process that supports alignment, trust, and meaningful outcomes
We engage thoughtfully, ensuring that opportunities are grounded in shared understanding and mutual benefit. Every connection begins with a conversation — about who you are, how you work, and how your approach aligns with First Nations’ vision for their communities and territories.
BusinessConnect is not an open directory. It’s a platform for values-based collaboration, built on Nation-led direction and partner readiness.
SUCCESS STORIES
-
Nazko First Nation Leads Forestry Innovation with New Harvesting Training Program
Nazko First Nation is helping to shape the future of forestry in BC through its leadership in the development of an Alternate Harvesting Operator Training Program—an initiative focused on forest resiliency and long-term sustainability. In partnership with Three Rivers Community Forest (TRCF), the University of British Columbia, and Foresight Canada, Nazko is supporting a shift…
-
Nation-Led Innovation in Value-Added Forestry
In late June, the Forestry Council’s storyteller Zac Whyte visited Secwépemc and Simpcw Nation Territories to capture an exciting joint partnership in action. The Adams Lake Indian Band, in collaboration with Gilbert Smith Forest Products (Barriere, BC) and Woodtone’s remanufacturing facility (Armstrong, BC), is launching a new on-reserve value-added manufacturing facility near the interior village…
-
Standing Together: Addressing U.S. Lumber Tariffs with First Nations Leaders
We are closely monitoring the recent U.S. lumber tariffs and their potential impact on our forestry sector. Now, more than ever, we must stand together. We are committed to being in the right rooms, having crucial conversations, and ensuring First Nations can navigate these economic challenges. Our strength is in our unity and collective voice….
NATURAL RESOURCE REGIONS & DISTRICTs MAP
Use this map to identify your opportunity’s region. This ensures the details you submit to the Opportunity Register are accurate, allowing us to connect you with the right partnerships and supports.
OPPORTUNITY REGISTER
Opportunity 10
Exploring partnerships with First Nations in SE BC for culturally aligned forestry initiatives, co-management, and community development.
Opportunity 7
Offering Indigenous-led drone services for forest management, mapping, and training. Focus on environmental stewardship and cultural integration.
Opportunity 9
Offering forestry and emergency response training, mobile housing, and mentorship for Nation-led operations. Supports workforce growth and crisis resilience.
Opportunity 1
Seeking a First Nation partner (preferably near Williams Lake) to co-develop a community-led building project using timber sourced from their traditional territory. The project will support education in sustainable forestry, tree grading, and value-added
Opportunity 2
Seeking opportunities to work with First Nations to co-develop tailored forestry solutions across BC, including timber development, road construction, and harvest planning.
Opportunity 3
Open to partnerships with Nations to support secure fiber supply and value-chain participation. Coastland sources 100% of its fiber from the open market.
Opportunity 4
Offering cloud-based, user-friendly forestry management software tailored to First Nations and forestry clients, covering full forest operation lifecycle.
Opportunity 5
Offering full-scope legal services to First Nations in forestry, including support with contracts, governance, and strategic business development.
Opportunity 6
Seeking partners for drone-based forestry operations, emergency management, and inventory. Focus on youth development and real-world training.
RESOURCE TOOL KIT
Talk to an Advisor
Connect with our Business team to explore, plan, and implement your forestry-related business opportunities.
Business Development Strategic Advisor
Business Development Coordinator