Workshops

Finding Land Development Opportunities in Remote and Rural Areas: A Panel and Discussion by Economic Development and Business Leaders

Presenting organization: Indigenous Business and Investment Council 

Description

The panel and discussion will provide participants with an understanding of the economic interest and opportunities for land development in remote and rural communities, and reserves. The panel will present and discuss:

  • Understanding the market for land and the types of land/resource development,
  • Getting to know the potential customers and their interests,
  • How to consider the type of partnerships that may be strategic, and,
  • The role of the community in the development process. 

What Participants will learn

  1. Types of land development in remote areas
  2. The market and potential customers
  3. Understanding how to consider partnerships
  4. The role of the community

Presenter(s)

  • Frank Parnell, CEO TRICORP
  • Chief Willie Sellars, Williams Lake Indian Band
  • Vince Prince, Nak'azdli Whit'en First Nation

Presenter Biographies

Frank Parnell, CEO of Tribal Resources Investment Corporation (TRICORP) brings more than 35 years of management and development expertise to his advocacy of Indigenous economic self-reliance on the north coast of British Columbia. He has led TRICORP from its beginnings in 1989, and since that time TRICORP has directed over $29 million in funding to Indigenous entrepreneurs. In 2016, Frank Parnell was honoured with a Doctor of Laws degree by the University of Victoria for his advocacy and promotion of economic self-reliance and his long-standing community leadership.

Chief Willie Sellars, Williams Lake Indian Band. Willie was born and raised in Williams Lake, BC, and is a Member of the Williams Lake Indian Band ("WLIB" or "T’exelc") of the Secwepemc Nation. Elected onto WLIB council at the age of 24 in 2008 and elected Chief in 2018. Mr. Sellars worked as the Special Projects Coordinator in the WLIB Economic Development Department. His responsibilities included new business initiatives flowing from Impact Benefit Agreements, engagement with proponents in the traditional territory and community consultation for major WLIB projects. He continues to support his community’s economic development interests.

Vince Prince is a member of the Nak’azdli Whut’en First Nation, son of the late Nick and Irene Prince. Vince is currently living and working in Prince George. The bulk of Vincent’s employment history is in the area of Community and Economic Development. Vincent’s volunteer experience includes the Prince George Native Friendship Centre, UNBC, CNC, Nezul Be, and several other community organizations. Vince is a current member of the CNC Board of Governors, an External Advisor with the UNBC Community Development Institute and a Director with the Aboriginal Business Development Centre.