About us
First Nations Worthwhile Ventures (FNWV) is the evolution of Worthwhile Ventures (WV).
Since 2016, WV has been assisting Indigenous-owned For-Profit businesses through a pro bono model. This model involves Indigenous and non-Indigenous members of our community donating their time and expertise to business owners to assist them achieve success. The expertise covers all areas of business such as business planning, accounting, legals and marketing. WV started small and worked hard to build this pro bono model to best assist Indigenous business owners. This led to an increase in funding in 2021, enabling WV to grow and currently support 46 businesses.
During the past year, we examined where WV could have the greatest impact, particularly on the more disadvantaged Indigenous people in our communities. We realized that while we could not directly address this disadvantage, we could assist in strengthening and making the enterprises more sustainable. These enterprises have the expertise to positively impact the disadvantaged communities. This, in turn, will allow them to increase their reach and influence. This realization has led to WV evolving into FNWV.
The proven pro bono model works well with First Nations Social Enterprises as they require more assistance over a longer period. Many FNSEs lack the financial capacity to pay for this assistance.
These First Nations Social Enterprises will be the driving force for positive change in Indigenous communities. Strengthening these social enterprises allows First Nations people to use their own knowledge and experience to uplift their own people. This will play a vital role in the self-determination of First Nation people.
OUR BOARD
Lani Blanco
Francis : Chair
Colin Gordon
Managing Director
Leisa Wahlin
Director
Ian Jackson
Director
Lindsay Rees
Director
Lil Gordon
Director
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Acknowledgement
First Nations Worthwhile Ventures and its Member Community acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land in which we travel, live, work and trade. We respect their Elders past, present and emerging, recognising the continuing cultural wisdom that informs and guides our contributing labour to our social, economical and environmental viability through successful Indigenous enterprise.
