Brian Davey was introduced Jan. 31 as the new executive director of the Thunder Bay-based Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund (NADF).
He moves up from his position as a special initiatives advisor in the not-for-profit organization's resource services.
“We are pleased to have someone lead our organization of such a high caliber,” says NADF board chair Arlene Meekis. “Brian brings many talents to our team, having spent the last 30 years working on First Nation issues in both the private and public sector as an independent business person and in senior management positions.
Davey previously served six years as Deputy Grand Chief for Nishnawbe Aski Nation.
At a Jan. 31 news conference, Davey said NADF is working to building a base of Aboriginal entrepreneurship.
“We are in overdrive and ramped up to help Aboriginal entrepreneurs and community-based businesses move ahead,” said Davey in a statement. “I have three main goals to push the organization forward and into the future. They focus on developing the entrepreneurial culture in our communities and with our youth, assisting in capacity development, and creating an equity fund for entrepreneurs and community-based organizations.”
The organization has several initiatives being planned, including its 3rd annual Mining Ready Summit happening on October 16-17, 2013, along with the Strategic Mineral Exploration & Mining Training Course scheduled for April 8-12.
NADF is an Aboriginal financial institution that has provided commercial financing, leasing and business support services to Aboriginal entrepreneurs for the last 29 years. Mandated as a community futures organization in 2002, NADF also plays a key role in community economic development.
“Canada’s Aboriginal community is creating businesses at a faster rate than the general population,” said Davey, adding that, to date, NADF has provided $30 million in loans across Northern Ontario, created 2,000 jobs and maintained 545 businesses.