Canada’s Indigenous Peoples face unique financial barriers, especially when it comes to accessing capital or credit. In this episode, our guest is Jon Davey, the Vice President of Indigenous Financial Services at Scotiabank. He’ll explain the root of the challenges that still exist for Indigenous-owned businesses as well as success stories he’s seen when it comes to economic reconciliation and how that can help unlock “Canada’s competitive advantage.” Also, how the advice his father gave him about taking pride in his Haudenosaunee heritage still informs the work he does today. 

Key moments this episode: 

1:30 — Why does a bank need Indigenous Financial Services?  

3:46 — What are some of the unique challenges that only Indigenous businesses face? 

5:59 — Are people aware of these limitations outside of the Indigenous community? 

8:03 — Understanding the roots and economic implications of Canada’s Indian Act 

10:02 — Why navigating Indigenous economic regulations can be so difficult 

12:37 — Why starting a business on reserve despite the hurdles is so necessary  

14:34 — Is business a component of reconciliation?  

17:02 — Success stories Jon has seen  

19:16 — How Jon’s Haudenosaunee heritage influences his work