Overview
In the early 70's the Economic Development Program was transferred from the
Department of Indian Affairs to the Moose Cree First Nation. Following the transfer
an Economic Development officer was hired. Since then the staffing has grown to seven (7)
permanent positions and the Economic Development Program now consists of the following units:
General Administration, Employment / Training, Business Development and the Tourism Unit.
In a strive to improve the standards of living on our Reserve the governing body, namely
the Moose Cree First Nation has sanctioned a two-fold approach to Economic Development.
The delivery systems were devised and implemented. The First to come into existence was the
Economic Development Program. The second was the Moose Band Development Corporation. The primary
responsibility of the Economic Development Program is the delivery of programs and services to
the membership, local businesses as well as organizations. The Corporation's main responsibility is
to pursue business opportunities on behalf of Moose Cree First Nation. The funding arrangements
also distinguishes the differences between the two economic development components.
For example, the main source of funding for the Economic Development Program is Indian and
Northern Affairs Canada. The Corporation counterbalances its expenses from revenue generated from
business activities. Furthermore, each component operates under the auspices of separate board/committee.
The chief mission of both, the Program and Corporation, embraces the local
government's aspirations and mission, which is to improve the standard of living for
the community.
To cover the Program's operating expenses, Moose Cree First Nation receives from Indian and
Northern Affairs Canada $164,000.00 annually. Due to inadequate funding the operating budget
is subsidized by other Program-generated revenues. The operating budget offsets administrative
expenses such as salaries and benefits; it also permits the First Nation to give grants and
loans to individuals interested in starting a business; in addition, it allows the First Nation
to contribute, financially, to job creation and training projects. On average the Program
generates approximately 1.2 million dollars annually.
The Economic Development Program has played a role in most of the community development. The following are selected examples:
- Water and sewer project
- Re-activation of Moose Band Development Corporation
- Housing Projects
- Moose Cree Commercial Complex
- Thomas Cheechoo Jr. Memorial Complex
