Shanna Martineau, CEO of Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation (AIOC), shares how loan guarantees are helping Indigenous communities invest in major projects and build economic prosperity. Since 2019, AIOC has facilitated investments totaling over $700 million for 43 Indigenous communities across Alberta and beyond, with the Alberta government recently increasing their loan guarantee capacity to $3 billion.

• AIOC helps overcome Indian Act restrictions that prevent Indigenous communities from holding collateral for loans
• The organization has supported investments in energy, agriculture, transportation, tourism and technology sectors
• Communities are using investment returns to address critical infrastructure needs, like the Whitefish/Goodfish Lake First Nation rebuilding its arena after 30 years
• AIOC requires a minimum $20 million investment size and maintains rigorous standards, resulting in zero defaults to date
• Indigenous participation improves project outcomes by incorporating traditional knowledge and creating shared benefits
• The model has inspired similar programs in other provinces and internationally
• Investment returns flow back to communities, generating over $25 million annually for community priorities
• Economic reconciliation means both catching up and positioning Indigenous communities for future growth opportunities

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