Indigenous Procurement Strategy (IPS) Development and Consultation
Community impact
This project directly empowers Indigenous businesses through the implementation of the 12 recommendations outlined through direct grass roots engagement, by removing historical barriers to provincial contracts, fostering local economic growth and sustainable capacity building within Indigenous communities. By prioritizing inclusive procurement, the initiative strengthens the social and economic foundation of New Brunswick through meaningful reconciliation.
client name
Government of New Brunswick
Location
New Brunswick
Project Description
Following on the success of the New Brunswick First Procurement Strategy, the Government of New Brunswick (GNB) identified a critical need to address systemic barriers preventing Indigenous businesses from participating in provincial procurement. The objective was to move beyond standard procurement practices to develop a dedicated Indigenous Procurement Strategy (IPS) that fosters genuine economic reconciliation and build capacity within the Indigenous business community.
SOAR facilitated a comprehensive, province-wide consultation process. Our team engaged with Indigenous business owners, Community Economic Development Officers, and Elder/Knowledge Holders through anonymous surveys and a series of in-person gatherings to capture authentic perspectives on the gaps in existing policies. We focused on uncovering the root causes of limited participation in provincial procurement processes – ranging from the non-intuitive nature of digital procurement tools to the significant capital and bonding requirements that often exclude small and start-up Indigenous firms.
The results of this engagement process were synthesized into a strategic roadmap featuring 12 actionable recommendations centered on supporting Indigenous business growth and improving accessibility. These recommendations were grouped into four key themes: supporting business growth, improving accessibility, addressing legacy issues and bias, and implementation and monitoring success.
By providing a framework for phased implementation and regular public reporting, the project has established a foundation for a more equitable and transparent procurement ecosystem that honors provincial-Indigenous relationships.
The final GNB IPS and its phased implementation is currently under review and implementation with the New Brunswick Government leaders with full launch targeted for Summer/Fall 2026.