Downtown marketplace showcases Indigenous entrepreneurs, artisans

Many communities recognized Indigenous People's Day on Friday. CTV News Edmonton's Curtis Goodrum has more on the day and its meaning to Canadians.

The organizer of a business mixer and vendor gathering Thursday in downtown Edmonton says the event comes amid “a real appetite” to support Indigenous entrepreneurs, artisans and organizations from across Alberta.

“This is about shining a light on that,” Crystal Janvier-Romaniuk, the chief executive officer of Sundance Enterprises, told CTV News Edmonton during the first Indigenous Business and Vendor Marketplace, which was held at ATB Place. “I’m hoping that we will make new connections that we can and that maybe we can collaborate in the future with businesses, to work together.”

Those attending the gathering found opportunities to network, discover local products and services, learn from business leaders and support Indigenous entrepreneurship.

The event also featured Indigenous cultural programming such as an opening prayer, pow wow dancing and drumming refreshments, and business spotlights.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Dave Mitchell