Drumbeats - Canadian Indigenous Investment Podcast

In this episode, we explore how key decisions, strong community leadership, and impactful partnerships have reshaped the region’s economy. From Selkirk First Nation’s control of the Minto Mine to Kwanlin Dün’s growing ventures, this is a story of reclaiming control, forging new futures, and demonstrating the power of Indigenous leadership.

Co-Chairs Mark Magnacca and Robert Brant discuss the highlights of the 2025 Canadian Indigenous Investment Summit, the largest gathering of Indigenous Business leaders in the UK in modern times if not ever.. They reflect on this Summit's impactful sessions covering a broad range of topics demonstrating the benefits of working with Indigenous Peoples who are rights holders, investors and equity par...

The 2024 Canadian Indigenous Investment Summit, held at Mansion House, brought together Indigenous leaders and business executives from Canada and London to discuss key investment opportunities in Canada’s energy, natural resources, and infrastructure sectors. The event featured important discussions on how to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into sustainable business practices, ensuring long-t...

Mark Magnacca and Robert Brant cover key issues facing Canada today. They discuss the Canadian federal elections, what’s at stake, and how the results could affect Indigenous communities, business, and economic policy. They also take a close look at the Ring of Fire in Northern Ontario, a region with vast critical mineral deposits that could play a major role in future industry and development. Th...

Harold Calla discusses the critical importance of economic reconciliation and the role of Indigenous financial institutions. He shares a powerful testimonial from Crystal Smith of the Cedar LNG project, which benefited from the support of the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB). He emphasises the need for improved access to capital, capacity development, and more institutions to support...

Chief Ted Williams of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation shares his journey in driving economic growth and financial success for the community. As a key figure in the development of Casino Rama, he later took on the role of Vice President of Corporate Affairs, overseeing its rapid expansion. In its first year alone, the casino generated $590 million and created 3,400 jobs, far exceeding initial pr...

Matt Smith, a proud member of the Métis Nation Saskatchewan and CEO of the Saskatchewan Indigenous Investment Finance Corporation (SIIFC), discusses how SIIFC is expanding Indigenous access to capital, the province’s $12 billion critical minerals industry, and the exciting opportunities in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), estimated to be at $150 billion per sector by 2040. Learn how Indigenous commu...

Clint Davis, CEO of Cedar Leaf Capital Inc., is working to open doors for Indigenous people, businesses, and communities in capital markets. As the first majority Indigenous-owned investment dealer in Canada, Cedar Leaf Capital is creating new financial opportunities and strengthening partnerships. Clint has built a career in law, government, and finance. He led Indigenous banking at BMO and TD, s...

In this insightful podcast interview, Chief Derek Epp discusses how First Nations are driving economic growth through financial sovereignty. With over $2 billion in loans issued, a recent $650 million debenture, and a $1 billion deal in progress, Indigenous communities are taking control of decision-making. He highlights how financial empowerment enables First Nations to lead sustainable projects...

Mark Sevestre, Senior Advisor at Mokwateh and former Founding Member of the National Aboriginal Trust Officers Association (NATOA), shares his experience in advancing Indigenous participation in the Canadian market. He discusses creating procurement opportunities for Indigenous communities, building partnerships based on shared values, and supporting non-Indigenous investors in building impactful...

Mark Podlasly, the newly appointed CEO of the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC), shares insights on supporting 14 projects with a total expenditure of $45 billion. Explore FNMPC's journey in empowering Indigenous Peoples to become key strategic partners in Canada, the $585 billion needed to meet co-investment goals, and innovative strategies to ensure continued access to affordably pr...

Kody Penner, Vice President of Corporate Development for Nations Royalty, discusses how the company helps build capacity for Indigenous Peoples through public markets, enabling them to create wealth and unlock the maximum value of their benefit agreement royalty through a portfolio of diversified royalties – lowering the risk associated with holding a single asset. He also shares insights into the...

Welcome to 2025! As we look back, let’s revisit the standout moments that defined Drumbeats in 2024. From groundbreaking conversations to thought-provoking insights shared by Indigenous leaders, these episodes highlighted innovative ideas and impactful investment opportunities. This special episode celebrates the stories, lessons, and meaningful discussions that laid the foundation for transformat...

In this insightful discussion on Drumbeats, Co-Chairs Mark Magnacca and Robert Brant introduce Eva Clayton, President of the Nisga’a Nation. As the first woman to lead the Nisga’a Lisims Government, Eva reflects on the successes achieved since signing the Nisga’a Final Agreement in 2000. This modern-day treaty granted the Nisga’a Nation self-governance and control over their lands and resources. T...

Join Co-Chairs Mark Magnacca and Robert Brant as they discuss the latest report from the Conference Board of Canada, which highlights Indigenous trusts across Canada. Learn about the growing importance of these trusts in empowering Indigenous communities and driving economic growth. Plus, hear insights on British Columbia's Hydro's recent Call for Power, which has received a strong response from p...

Join Co-Chairs Mark Magnacca and Robert Brant discuss the proposed launch of the Centre for Indigenous Corporate Partnerships, a groundbreaking initiative by Boston Consulting Group. Inspired by their successful work in Australia, this programme seeks to forge new pathways for Indigenous communities and corporate partnerships in Canada. Join us as we explore how this initiative will impact Indigen...

Join Co-Chairs Mark Magnacca and Robert Brant as they interview The Hon. Lisa Raitt, Vice Chair of CIBC Capital Markets. They discuss CIBC’s commitment to supporting Indigenous communities by expanding access to capital and building inclusive financial pathways. Lisa Raitt shares CIBC's approach, focusing on structures that prioritise Indigenous investment, drive economic growth, and strengthen In...

Join Co-Chairs Mark Magnacca and Robert Brant as they interview Steve Berna, COO of the First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA). Steve discusses FNFA's significant role in funding Indigenous projects including $1.4 billion investment in Cedar LNG and their ongoing efforts to create more opportunities for First Nations. Discover how FNFA is driving economic growth through innovative financing soluti...

Tune in with Co-Chairs Mark Magnacca and Robert Brant as they Interview Ernie Daniels, President and CEO of First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA). The discussion touches on FNFA’s impact on Indigenous infrastructure development, the organisation’s unique governance model, and Ernie’s strategies to close the infrastructure gap. The episode also covers Ernie Daniels' historic appointment to the Ban...

Tune in with Co-Chairs Mark F. Magnacca 🌍 and Rob Brant as they delve into the latest developments in Indigenous investment. The discussion highlights key players like NorSask Forest Products , Hydro One and Bouchier while also breaking down the impacts of the new Federal Indigenous Loan Guarantee Programme. Learn more about these significant initiatives shaping Canada’s Indigenous economy.

In this second episode featuring Chief Crystal Smith, Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation since 2013, we delve into the Cedar LNG project—a visionary initiative more than a decade in the making. Learn how the Haisla leadership team successfully attracted investors—some of whom valued Indigenous communities as equal partners, while others did not. Pembina emerged as the winning partner. Today, th...

🎙️ Join us in this inspiring episode featuring Crystal Smith, the Elected Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation, as she discusses Cedar LNG —the world's first Indigenous majority-owned LNG facility. Chief Crystal is discussing Cedar LNG, world's first Indigenous majority-owned LNG facility, making it a pioneering project in the realm of Indigenous-led infrastructure proposed for Kitimat, British C...

Join us on this exciting journey as we strike the first beat, sharing valuable knowledge and inspiring experiences that will set the stage for a lasting impact. Co-Chairs of the Canadian Indigenous Investment, Mark Magnacca and Rob Brant, will lead us through this exploration. Let the drumbeats of wisdom guide you as we create a harmonious path towards sustainable and profitable investment togethe...