Economic Development Awards
Recognize! Celebrate! Honour!
In 1995 the Cando Economic Developer of the Year Award was created to recognize and promote recent or long-standing Indigenous economic development initiatives throughout Canada. All winners past and present share a common desire to bring their communities forward as each pursues a vision of sustainable economic self-sufficiency. Although the path of economic development may vary from one Indigenous community to another, the goal is always the same. That goal is to improve the wealth, prosperity and quality of life for Indigenous people.
It is important for Indigenous Economic developers to get the recognition that they deserve for their commitment and dedication to increase the standards of living and prosperity in Indigenous communities. This is what motivates Cando to coordinate and host the prestigious annual Indigenous Economic Developer of the Year Awards that recognize the outstanding achievements of nominees from across the country in three separate award categories which include: Community, Individual Economic Development Officer and Indigenous Private Sector Business. Two finalists in each of the categories are selected to present to an audience during a special plenary at the Cando Annual National Conference. After all finalists are given an equal opportunity to present, the conference delegates vote via secret ballot for the finalist who they believe is most deserving of the top award in each category.
Nominate an Outstanding EDO, Community or Business!
Download Nomination FormDeadline for Nominations: June 30, 2024
Questions? Contact Svitlana Konoval at skonoval@edo.ca or (780) 990-0303 (ext. 231) for more information.
Economic Development Award Years
Past Awards
Individual
2016 Rob Crow, AB
2015 Cliff Fregin, BC
2014 Chris Hartman, BC
2013 Darrell Balkwill, SK
2012 Eileen Paul, NS
2010 Rodney Hester, QC
2009 Paulette Flamond, BC
2007 Ruth Williams, BC
2006 Gary Swite, BC
2005 Lyle Leo, BC
2001 Chief Ron Evans, MB
Community
2011 Moricetown Band, BC
Business
2013 Erasmus Apparel, NT
2011 Neechie Gear, SK