This course will inform learners about the expanding Indigenous economy through exposure to Indigenous perspectives that guide economic development, as well as the current business and management tools and practices in use by Indigenous nations and business owners. The course delivers content on business structures, strategic planning – including the application of governance and competitive business analysis concepts – all through an Indigenous cultural lens. Learners will be challenged to assess the existing Indigenous business environment in the context of risk assessment and opportunity development. This course is the first of three courses in the Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Economic Development, which includes three integrated 3-credit courses.
The course will explore the key topics and skills Indigenous managers, and others working with Indigenous communities, need to successfully develop and lead Indigenous enterprises and partnerships. Much of the learning in this course is complimented by guest presenters such as Indigenous practitioners, to present a practical perspective on the concepts covered in the course. This course covers concepts and exploring issues and solutions in the fields of ESG (Environment, Social and Governance) as a business reporting methodology, Human Resource Management, Environmental Planning and Management, Supply Chain and Procurement and related topics. All topics are underpinned in Indigenous culture and perspectives. Learners will be challenged to assess course concepts through applied analysis of concepts against an Indigenous lens. Learners will develop a prospective Indigenous business opportunity in the context of opportunity development and risk assessment.
This course serves as a capstone course for the Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Economic Development. The course has a focus on negotiations and partnerships in an Indigenous context and provides case-based scenarios and the use of real, practical tools and opportunities for students to develop negotiation skills and explore various models of partnerships for successful engagement with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations. Students will examine ways to create new ideas and approaches that go beyond past agreements and thinking to expand the range of possible outcomes and benefits to be developed through successful partnerships. The course also focuses on leadership skills and understandings to support work with Indigenous peoples, communities and enterprises.