About I-CEDAR

Our vision, values, and story.

Vision

To enable Indigenous people to take their rightful place in the Canadian economy as the original Canadian entrepreneurs.

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
Ethical & Intellectual Integrity
Freedom of Inquiry & Speech
Excellence & Passion
I-CEDAR Vision

Our Story

From a vision to a movement.

The I-ACE Program began as a vision of Frank Parnell's, CEO of Tribal Resources Investment Corporation (TRICORP). Frank invited Dr. Brent Mainprize from the Gustavson School of Business at UVic to co-design the ACE Program. In 2013, the first Northwest ACE cohort launched in Prince Rupert. 2014 marked the second program beginning in Haida Gwaii.

Two years later, the ACE Program was receiving international recognition. In 2018, it received $1 million in funding from BMO, and by 2019 three new locations had launched their first cohorts. In 2020, the program re-branded as Indigenous Advancement of Cultural Entrepreneurship (I-ACE).

The I-CEDAR Program was born as a response to the disproportionate negative effects of COVID-19 on Indigenous communities. Indigenous cultural tourism and hospitality experiences are in growing demand but the supply of Indigenous entrepreneurs is unable to match. I-CEDAR was created to rebuild and stimulate economic growth within this sector.

Richard Shorty Artwork

Artwork

Richard Shorty

In working with Richard for many years, including on the creation of our logo, we were graciously given license to use his painting of the Frog seen throughout our images. Richard's art perfectly embodies the program's 8 Ring components.

Richard was born in Whitehorse, Yukon Territory in 1959 and belongs to the Northern Tuchone Tribe. He is a self-taught artist who originally started painting wildlife at an early age. In 1978, Richard moved to Vancouver.

Learn more at richardshortyart.com