By Gabriel Louër
The Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC) celebrated a heartwarming and successful Toys & Ties Business Mixer on December 3rd bringing together business leaders, sponsors, government officials, and supporters for a festive and meaningful evening.
This event not only marked the holiday season but also reflected on the impressive growth and accomplishments of the ICC throughout the year, in addition to fundraising for CommUNITY 204.
ICC Celebrates Remarkable Growth in 2024
As the ICC staff and board gathered with members, one theme was clear: 2024 has been a year of incredible growth and engagement. In just six months, ICC membership has grown by 20% and engagement has skyrocketed by an astounding 437%.
These statistics are a clear reflection of the thriving Indigenous business community that the ICC has worked tirelessly to cultivate. The evening was a celebration of that success, as attendees connected over shared goals of economic growth, reconciliation, and community building.
The ICC’s commitment to keeping members informed and engaged was highlighted, with upcoming initiatives including a Year in Review in the final 2024 newsletter and an exciting 2025 Event Calendar to be released in January. This dedication to communication and collaboration continues to fuel the Chamber's mission of creating a stronger, more unified Indigenous business network.
A significant part of the evening was dedicated to recognizing the generous sponsors whose support made the event possible. North West Company, Winnipeg Foundation, Hudbay Minerals, and Bird Construction were all thanked for their ongoing belief in the ICC's mission and their crucial role in supporting the growth of Indigenous businesses.
Their presence at the event underscored the importance of partnerships between Indigenous businesses and key organizations in building long-lasting economic opportunities.
The ICC also took the opportunity to acknowledge the unwavering commitment of Taylor McCaffrey LLP. Beyond their sponsorship, Taylor McCaffrey has been instrumental in volunteering, hosting events, and cheering on the ICC every step of the way. Their contribution, along with the support of community champions, has been vital in making events like this mixer a reality.
Government Highlights 2024's Indigenous Education Funding
The evening also featured insightful remarks from Renee Cable, MLA for Southdale and Minister of Advanced Education and Training. Cable highlighted several new initiatives and policies introduced by the provincial government aimed at advancing Indigenous economic reconciliation.
Notably, the public-private partnership between the NDP government and the Business Council of Manitoba, which will provide up to $1.6 million in funding to support nearly 400 Indigenous students across the province.
In addition, the government collaboration with the Southern Chiefs’ Organization to offer scholarships to up to 30 Indigenous students pursuing careers in healthcare. Cable also announced the official recognition of Yellowquill University College, Manitoba’s first Indigenous-owned and operated post-secondary institution, as a legal credential-granting institution for teachers.
Of these initiatives, Cable said “we are actively pushing for change, and we will continue to make a province not just for ourselves today, but for our children seven generations ahead.”
More than that, the Toys & Ties Business Mixer was not just an event about celebration but a chance to give back to the community. In the spirit of the season, attendees generously donated toys, hygiene products, household items, and other essentials for families in need.
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Breaking Cycles: Gifts that Transform Lives
This initiative is part of the ICC’s broader commitment to support community organizations like CommUNITY 204, who work year-round to provide vital services to those in need. The success of this drive is a testament to the compassion and generosity of the ICC’s members, who continue to make a difference through both business and philanthropy.
”When our members learned about supporting CommUNITY 204, they didn’t hesitate to step up. Their generosity in helping children in the welfare system has been truly inspiring. They even went above and beyond, organizing a pizza party to show appreciation for the incredible work of the CommUNITY 204 team. Toys and Ties isn’t just a one-time initiative – the ICC is already planning ways to continue supporting our community’s children in 2025. Giving is deeply rooted in our culture; it’s how we care for those in need,” says Renee Greyeyes, ICC President & CEO.
Daniel Hidalgo, Director of CommUNITY 204, shared his reflections on his upbringing within the child welfare system and the importance of assisting children in need. “There are so many opportunities,” Hidalgo said, “to ensure that kids in similar circumstances turn out better than me.
Honouring Leaders, Building Tomorrow
Darryl Brown, a founding member of the ICC from 2003, presented Brian Kelly with a meritorious service award for his dedication to promoting Indigenous participation in the economy. A heartfelt message was shared by Kelly about the importance of standing up for the rights of minorities.
As the event wrapped up, the ICC staff and attendees looked forward to a full 2025 calendar of advocacy initiatives, networking, and growth opportunities, with key support from grants like the Downtown Winnipeg BIZ – Building Businesses Grant and Indigenous Services Canada – Procurement Project. The evening ended on a fun note with competitions for the ugliest tie and ugliest sweater.
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