b'A lot of First Nations are becomingsource of information that can be usedthey have a major role to play within aware of the whole issue around datain this whole new approach to economicit and I think there is a tremendous sovereignty and having to protectreconciliation, Chief Miskokomon says.amount of goodwill to do that, he says. that so it is not being misused, ChiefI dont think any government can [avoidAnything that gets the word out that Miskokomon says, noting that Firstparticipating] because its within thethere are First Nations businesses that Nations businesses will be able togovernments mandate that they have towant to evolve and expand and become remove themselves from the directoryhave some form of reconciliation. more of a participant in the mainstream if they so choose. It is important thatChief Miskokomon highlightseconomies of Canadaor the global they maintain control of how that datathe strong commitment of Canadaseconomy, for that matteris going to is being used or where it is going, andbewelcomed.it guides themselves towards projectsbusiness communities to reconciliation, and certification that would be able toacknowledging past wrongs andThe project is being led by the authenticate the principles of OCAP.embracing their responsibility in theCOO Economic Development Sector It allows the communities to safeguardprocess. Its not just all on governmentwith support from consultants at the the directory while maintaining an air of I think that companies recognize thatIFSD as part of a broader prosperity transparency along with accessibility.The directory will make connections much easier between First Nations businesses, government entities and the private sector. It facilitates not only business butit also facilitates government to understand that there are these First Nations businesses out there that may want to be engaged, Chief Miskokomon says. What it also does is that collaboration requires a deeper sense of partnership. There have been commitments towards collaboration, but there hasnt been a commitment or strong action taken on how that commitment is going to roll out.The directory will also play a crucial role in addressing the issue of individuals falsely claiming Indigenous heritage to gain access to economic opportunities. Unwittingly, buyers or service delivery suppliers would be going to them thinking that they are doing the right thing in procurement, but these organizations may not have any Indigenous involvement whatsoever, Chief Miskokomon says. So its a safeguard not only for the business but for government procurement, and it takes out some of the ambiguity that currentlyexists.Chief Miskokomon says the directory should also ensure that local First Nations businesses are provided with opportunities in their area. Where there are major projects being developed, First Nations businesses locally should be given the first opportunity, he says.COO plans to launch the directory in March 2025 as the go-to place for those who are looking to engage First Nations businesses in the province.I dont know if there is going to be an immediate impact; its another I ssue1 2024/25C hIefs ofo ntarIoA dvocAte magazIne l 29'