Through the Community and Business Liaison, the Okanagan Nation Alliance works with BC Hydro to increase economic opportunities for the Syilx Nation by expanding access to procurement, contracting, and long-term business development opportunities.
The Community and Business Liaison serves as the primary connection between the Okanagan Nation Alliance, Syilx member communities, and utility partners such as BC Hydro and FortisBC. The role focuses on creating economic opportunities for the Syilx Nation by advancing procurement, contracting, and business development opportunities through strategic partnerships and negotiated agreements.
Building Partnerships For The Future
A key responsibility is coordinating work under the Enduring Relationship Agreement between the ONA Chiefs and BC Hydro. This agreement provides a framework for collaboration and creates opportunities for Syilx-owned businesses to participate in projects throughout Syilx territory.
The role also facilitates discussions between Syilx representatives and utility partners to ensure the commitments made through agreements like the Enduring Relationship Agreement translate into meaningful opportunities for Nation members.
Creating Pathways for Syilx Businesses and Entrepreneurs
The Community and Business Liaison supports economic development by creating pathways for Syilx businesses, entrepreneurs, and member communities to access employment, contracting, and procurement opportunities tied to major infrastructure and utility projects.
Specifically, the role supports economic development by:
- Creating business opportunities by connecting Syilx-owned businesses with procurement and contracting opportunities through agreements with BC Hydro and FortisBC.
- Increasing Indigenous participation in major projects by advocating for greater involvement of Syilx businesses in planning, construction, maintenance, and environmental services.
- Facilitating relationships between industry partners, Syilx businesses, and member communities, helping build trust and long-term partnerships.
- Advancing Nation-to-Nation agreements that include commitments to procurement, employment, training, and capacity-building opportunities.
- Building community capacity by supporting initiatives that enable Syilx communities and businesses to take on work within their own territory, such as vegetation management and other land stewardship services.
- Promoting long-term economic sustainability by helping communities develop experience, expertise, and business capacity that can lead to future contracts and economic growth.
Contact
Raf DeGuevara, Community and Business Liaison
Phone: 250 707 0095 ext. 141
Email: rdeguevara@syilx.org