I-CEDAR Program
Fully Funded · Online · 14 Weeks

I-CEDARTourism & Hospitality Entrepreneurship

Empowering Indigenous Artists, Carvers, Creators, Performers, Storytellers, and Entrepreneurs across British Columbia.

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Program Start
TBD
Apply By
TBD
Delivery
Online · 3 days/week
Length
14 Weeks
Fee
No Fees — Fully Funded
I-CEDAR Program Overview

About the Program

More than a program — a transformative journey.

The I-CEDAR program empowers Indigenous Artists, Carvers, Creators, Performers, Storytellers, and Entrepreneurs in the tourism and hospitality sector. Fully funded for 14 weeks.

Beyond teaching business concepts, I-CEDAR honors traditional values and provides one-to-one mentorships and hands-on training — a holistic approach to building or restructuring your business.

Graduates receive a fully developed business plan and certification from the Peter B. Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria.

Program Highlights

What makes I-CEDAR different.

Real World Learning
Learn useful knowledge and skills applicable in real-life scenarios in the business world.
Applied & Interactive
Delivered with an effective balance of cutting-edge concepts, relevant activities, and exercises.
Delivered in Your Community
No need to travel to urban centres. I-CEDAR brings world-class education to your community.
Cultural Advantage
Rooted in Indigenous culture to convey and anchor business concepts in an appropriate way.
Tailored Mentorship
Faculty and mentors provide focused guidance specific to your personal and business needs.
Practical Courses
Courses focus on practical skills and the knowledge needed to successfully run a business.

Student Voices

Hear from our graduates.

Anthony Wingham

"This program has helped me overcome personal barriers and break through limitations I once had. I am deeply grateful for the tools and support provided to ensure my success."

Anthony Wingham
Nuez Acres · nuezacres.ca
Sheena Francis Olito

"The I-CEDAR Program has been a game-changer for me. It has instilled in me a sense of confidence and resilience I am truly grateful for."

Sheena Francis Olito
A Feather And A Stone · afeatherandastone.com
Salina Morse

"Being able to learn in such a supportive environment made the whole process a lot of fun. I wish it was longer! I'm so grateful for the new tools and wonderful friendships."

Salina Morse
Alice + Sage · aliceandsage.com

Course Curriculum

8 modules. Practical skills. Real results.

Module 1
Introduction
Build your Entrepreneurial Identity based on your unique background, purpose, and values.
Module 2
Opportunities
Experience and identify opportunities for your business.
Module 3
Market Analysis
Study your industry through customer segments, buying patterns, and competition.
Module 4
Accounting
Study basic accounting and cost structures for your business.
Module 5
Differentiation
Identify ways to differentiate your business from competitors.
Module 6
Marketing
Study, identify, and put together a complete marketing plan.
Module 7
Strategic Planning
Strategically plan, forecast, and define the actions for your business.
Module 8
Execution
Gain the confidence to build or re-structure your business for unlimited possibilities.

Program Structure

How the program is delivered.

I-CEDAR Program Structure
12
Cohorts (2022–2025)
25
Participants Per Cohort
14
Weeks Program Length
$0
Cost to Participants

Our Graduates

A community of Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Cohort 1 Graduates Cohort 2 Graduates Cohort 3 & 4 Graduates Cohort 5 & 6 Graduates

Program Partners

Eligibility

Indigenous BC Residents with a business venture.

First Nation (status and non-status), Inuit, and Métis · Over 18 · No Fees



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