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Indigenous business organization unveils new collaborative networking space

Last Updated Oct 22, 2020 at 5:48 pm MDT

IMAGE. Supplied by the Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association/Facebook.

The Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA) announced the opening of the Suncor Community Enterprise Centre.

Located at 9917 Biggs Avenue in Fort McMurray, the much-anticipated centre received a donation from Suncor in 2018.

It was part of a campaign to develop a community hub within their new office space.

NAABA Board Chair Jaime Harpe said the centre is a collaborative networking space used to promote and grow Indigenous business in Wood Buffalo.

“It’s very exciting to see our vision become reality. We are now able to offer our membership a physical space where business owners, both new and well-established, can seek support and mentorship, generate new business opportunities, and showcase their services in a welcoming, but less formal space conducive to both professional and social engagement.”

The open-concept space features soft seating.

The NAABA plans to integrate “plug and play” technology to contribute to an innovative and collaborative work environment.

Base Plant’s Senior Vice-President Shelley Powell said Suncor is proud to have a part in the new space.

“Suncor views partnering with Indigenous businesses and communities as important for building mutual trust and respect.”

Powell added they hope the facility will be a valuable addition to the community.

Due to COVID-19 guidelines, there is a delay to the official grand opening of the Suncor Community Enterprise Centre.

The space is available to NAABA membership and the community so long as they follow Alberta Health Services guidelines.

Members should contact the Executive Director for bookings and tours.

A virtual tour of the facility will be available soon on the group’s social media.

Founded in 1993, the NAABA’s mission is to work with industry, government and the community to enhance opportunities for Indigenous people, and promote Indigenous business development.