An Overview of the Indigenous Economy in Canada

Attempts to measure aspects of Indigenous economies within Canada are limited by data availability and quality. Drawing on the most recent data sources and research, we provide an overview of such economies and their relationship to the economy of Canada. This includes a discussion of labour markets and the characteristics of Indigenous-owned businesses. While several measures suggest economic outcomes have improved for Indigenous Peoples in recent decades, some institutional settings and gaps in infrastructure and financing continue to hinder economic progress. The creation of new institutions is helping Indigenous communities to overcome these historic barriers. However, continued progress is needed to improve data on Indigenous economies to enable Indigenous and Canadian policy-makers to make informed decisions.