Most federal Indigenous contracts flow to Ottawa, leaving regions behind: IJF-APTN report

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A joint Investigative Journalism Foundation–APTN investigation found that billions in federal contracts intended for Indigenous businesses are flowing primarily to Ottawa-area firms, with more than 60 per cent of about $1 billion a year staying in the capital. 

Indigenous leaders say the imbalance reflects structural flaws in the Procurement Strategy for Indigenous Business, with National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association CEO Shannin Metatawabin noting the investigation confirms what Indigenous business owners have believed for a long time: “the Ottawa region has benefited from the majority of [these] procurement contracts.” 

Researchers said transparency could help correct regional inequities. Carleton University’s Ian Lee argued that “Sunshine is the most powerful disinfectant.” 

Entrepreneurs in the West reported persistent barriers, including Saskatchewan contractor Daryl Wright, who said, “There should be more opportunities” and warned that reliance on foreign multinationals “destroys entrepreneurship opportunities, and profits flow across the border.” 

Despite federal assurances of reform, experts like Veldon Coburn cautioned the program is “deeply falling short” as most benefits continue to concentrate around Ottawa.