Calgary, Alberta - Four Alberta First Nations have come together again to co-host the highly anticipated 2nd Canadian Indigenous Business Association (CIBA) 2008 conference and trade show. After a highly successful conference 2 years ago, it was decided that the well attended business and economic development conference become a recognized event to be held every two years.
"The turnout for the first conference convinced us that we were on the right track. Aboriginal organizations, businesses, government, industry and the corporate community want and need a forum to discuss economic development," said Conference Coordinator, Charles Wood of the Canadian Indigenous Business Association.
The CIBA conference will feature special guests including celebrated author, Calvin Helin whose book ,"Dances with Dependency" has sold over 15,000 copies and has made an waves through Canada and the U.S. Other speakers include renowned business professionals including, Victor S. Buffalo, Board member for Peace Hills Trust and former Chief of the Samson Cree Nation, Leslie Lounsbury, Publisher of SAY Magazine and other prominent guests. Included in this year's event is a youth forum which will be jointly held to include motivational speakers such as Reggie Leach, former NHL hockey player.
"I am pleased that the foresight of the host Nations, to create a venue which fosters the growth of a network of professionals, businesses and technical expertise interested in creating strategic business alliances with First Nations. This will be an opportunity to strengthen relationships, build new ones and learn from each other," stated Chief of the Samson Cree Nation, Marvin Yellowbird.
The four co-host First Nations are: Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Samson Cree Nation, Fort McKay First Nation and the Blood Tribe. The conference and trade show will take place from September 30-October 2, 2008 at the Coast Plaza & Conference Center in Calgary, Alberta.
"Alberta First Nations are in a unique position being in the heart of the oil & gas country. This province has generated much wealth and we're opening the doors to share innovative ideas and create business ventures to increase participation with potential business partners, industry and the private sector," stated Charles Weaselhead, Chief of the Blood Tribe.
A press conference will occur on Tuesday, August 26, 2008 at 10am at the Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference center in Calgary, Alberta located at 1316-33 Street NE.
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For further information, please contact:
Nicole Robertson, Communications Advisor
Muskwa Productions & Consulting
(403) 616-4999 or nicole.robertson@telus.net