A

N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T

2
0
1
3
-
2
0
1
4
3
Message from the Chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Message from the Chief Executive Ofcer (CEO) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
JEDI Board of Directors 2013-2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
JEDI Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
JEDI Program Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Supporting Community Economic Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Community Economic Development Success Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Supporting Entrepreneurship and Business Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Entrepreneurship and Business Development Success Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Supporting Workplace Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Workforce Development Success Story. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Supporting Partnerships. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Partnership Success Story. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
JEDI Workforce Development Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Appendix A - Audited Financial Statements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Table of Contents
T
A
B
L
E

O
F

C
O
N
T
E
N
T
S
4
J
E
D
I

A
N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T


2
0
1
3

-

2
0
1
4
JEDI has had another very active year in Aboriginal economic and
workforce development. Working with our partners, we have been
achieving many great things.
JEDI has been pleased to award funding for 13 JEDI Aboriginal
Development Fund (JADF) projects during the 2013/2014 fscal year.
Investments have been made in businesses representing a variety of
industries ranging from manufacturing to the service sector. This fund-
ing will help these businesses grow and create jobs in the communities
that they serve. We will also be contacting all of our JADF recipients to
consult with them on how they are doing and how we can further help.
We currently have 112 businesses identifed and we look forward
to connecting with even more. This inventory will provide a use-
ful resource for JEDI and its partners to ensure we are providing
as much as we can to support these entrepreneurs with their
specifc needs. A great example of how this resource can help is
the recent partnership with ProftLearn that resulted in professional
development workshops for 37 entrepreneurs in Woodstock, Elsipogtog
and St. Marys. JEDI made sure that we only developed the content for
the workshop after we consulted with the 112 entrepreneurs on what
their needs were to ensure they receive the right type of training.
JEDI is also working closely with many Aboriginal communities to
help them develop community economic development projects.
Examples have been the Grey Rock Power Centre in Madawaska and
the new Riverside Entertainment Centre in Miramichi. There are many
community economic development success stories in New Brunswick
and JEDI has been proud to assist with making these projects a reality.
The JEDI Aboriginal Intern project continues to be a success. JEDI has
partnered with ArtsNB to provide two Aboriginal interns to support
the work of ArtsNB and promote the organization to Aboriginal clients.
Natalie Sappier and Katie Nicholas have been doing an excellent job
and we are proud of their work.
JEDI has also been busy building relationships with other organiza-
tions to ofer as many resources and sources of assistance as possible
to Aboriginal entrepreneurs so that any Aboriginal entrepreneur can
fnd everything they need to have a thriving business. A great example
is the increase in attendance at the JEDI Plenaries from a variety of
stakeholders in the public and private sector.
JEDI is also proud of its workforce development work. JEDI has been
working with all 15 Aboriginal communities and people living
outside their community to ensure that any Aboriginal person in New
Brunswick is able to tap into the many services we ofer ranging from
apprenticeship support to training-to-employment.
All of these projects are innovative and respond to the ever-changing
needs of our clients and industry in New Brunswick.
Finally, the ofcial opening of our new professional ofce space in
February has created a contemporary environment for our talented
JEDI team to work hand-in-hand with our partners to achieve
success. This one-time investment has taken years of planning.
The ofce space will also be available for our Aboriginal partners to use.
It will truly beneft the JEDI team, our clients and our partners.
None of our achievements could have been accomplished without
the partnerships we have with the 15 Aboriginal communities in
New Brunswick, the North Shore Micmac District Council, the MAWIW
Tribal Council, the Saint John River Valley Tribal Council, the New
Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council, the Government of Canada, the
Government of New Brunswick as well as our many private sector and
public sector partners.
Woliwon. Welalin. Thank you.
Alex Dedam
President
Joint Economic Development Initiative
Message from the Chair
Alex Dedam, President, JEDI
5
M
E
S
S
A
G
E

F
R
O
M

T
H
E

C
H
A
I
R

&

C
E
O
Message from the CEO
Lynn Poole-Hughes, CEO, JEDI
Being located in St. Marys First Nation, I am reminded daily of the
importance of the work of the Joint Economic Development Initiative
(JEDI) and the impact JEDIs work has had for Aboriginal people in New
Brunswick.
Every single day is a new learning experience for me. There will always
be challenges within an organization but with the support of a strong
dedicated team we are always able to move forward even on the tough
days. This is a result of continuing to keep JEDIs mission in the forefront
which is to work with our partners to foster economic and workforce
development for Aboriginal people and communities.
With a team of 16 dedicated JEDI staf, we focus on trying to provide
the right opportunities! A major focus in 2013-2014 was on Aboriginal
entrepreneurs. JEDI ofered a variety of resources such as the JEDI
Aboriginal Development Fund, professional development workshops
and developing an Aboriginal database with the end goal in mind
which is to increase the number of Aboriginal entrepreneurs and
strengthen Aboriginal businesses.
Another focus for JEDI in 2013-2014 was on industry-driven workforce
development which resulted in a number of Aboriginals receiving
training in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) as well
as training in trades focused on the natural resources sector. This in-
cludes construction, heavy equipment and trucking. All these training
programs will provide the future workforce with the skills in demand
by employers.
I am so proud of JEDIs accomplishments this past
year. I look forward to continuing to work with the
JEDI team and partners in 2014-2015 to create
new relationships and identify new business lines
which will support Aboriginal Participation in New
Brunswicks Economy.
JEDI and the New Brunswick Arts Board have also partnered to provide
opportunities this year through the JEDI Aboriginal Internship Program
(AIP). This partnership, to encourage more support of Aboriginal arts
in New Brunswick, is one example of how the AIP program helps
Aboriginal professionals gain valuable work experience and help
companies gain valuable new assets.
JEDI continues to work closely with Aboriginal communities and other
partners in New Brunswick to open doors to economic and workforce
development opportunities. Our Aboriginal employment, adult learn-
ing and apprenticeship programs have worked closely with partners
such as communities, tribal councils, industry and government to
provide career opportunities for many Aboriginal people.
I am so proud of JEDIs accomplishments this past year and I look
forward to continuing to work with the JEDI team and partners in
2014-2015 to create new relationships and identify new business
lines which will support Aboriginal Participation in New Brunswicks
Economy.
Woliwon. Welalin. Thank you.
Lynn Poole-Hughes
CEO
Joint Economic Development Initiative
6
J
E
D
I

A
N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T


2
0
1
3

-

2
0
1
4
The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) is a not-for-proft organization that supports Aboriginal partici-
pation in New Brunswicks economy.
JEDI began in 1995 as a forum that brought together leaders of First Nations communities and organizations
in New Brunswick with leaders from the Government of Canada, the Government of New Brunswick and
New Brunswicks private sector in an efort to improve economic and workforce development opportunities for
First Nations in New Brunswick. Since 1995, JEDI has been active on its mandate and now operates as an indepen-
dent not-for-proft organization that boasts many successes in Aboriginal economic and workforce development.
JEDI is funded by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), Aboriginal Afairs and Northern Development
Canada (AANDC), the New Brunswick Aboriginal Afairs Secretariat (AAS), Employment and Social Development
Canada (ESDC) and the New Brunswick Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour (DPETL).
In addition to government funding, JEDI also receives support from the private sector as well as Aboriginal com-
munities and organizations. JEDI is governed by a JEDI Inc. Board of Directors consisting of Aboriginal, private
sector, and funding partners.
Programs under the management of JEDI include: the JEDI Aboriginal Development Fund (JADF), the Provincial
Aboriginal Employment Coordinator Partnership, the Aboriginal Adult Learning and Apprenticeship Coordinator
Partnership, youth initiatives such as the Aboriginal Internship Program (AIP),the JEDI/Brunway Bursary Program
and the Aboriginal Workforce Development Initiative (AWDI).
Mission
JEDI works with partners to foster economic and workforce development for Aboriginal people and communities.
Vision
Honouring traditional values, we strive for full Aboriginal participation in the New Brunswick economy.
JEDI is committed to working cooperatively with all stakeholders to achieve this mission and vision. The strengths
of JEDI include strong stakeholder commitment in an open forum; credibility; longevity; a proven track record;
recognition as a good partnership model nationally and JEDIs position as a non-political organization.
Joint Economic
Development Initiative (JEDI)
The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) held an April Plenary in Moncton focused on community economic development featuring
speeches from Vancouver 2010 Olympics Co-Organizer Tewanee Joseph and Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business CEO JP Gladu. Pictured
from left to right is JEDI CEO Lynn Poole-Hughes, JEDI President Alex Dedam, Tewanee Joseph, JP Gladu, JEDI Economic Development Manager
Charles Harn and JEDI Workforce Development Executive Director Karen LeBlanc.
7
J
E
D
I

B
O
A
R
D

O
F

D
I
R
E
C
T
O
R
S
JEDI President
Alex Dedam
Esgenoopetitj First Nation
620 Bayview Drive
Burnt Church, NB
E9G 2A8
506-776-1330
506-778-1061
alex.dedam@nb.aibn.com
Assembly of First Nations
Chiefs Representative
Chief Gabriel Atwin
Kingsclear First Nation
77 French Village Road
Kingsclear First Nation, NB
E3E 1K3
506-363-3028
gabrielatwin@kingsclear.ca
First Nation Economic
Development Representatives
Lynn Francis
Elsipogtog First Nation
RR#1, 373 Big Cove Road
Elsipogtog First Nation, NB
E4W 2S3
506-523-8200
lf@efned.ca
Jim Ward
North Shore Micmac
District Council
38 Micmac Road
Eel Ground First Nation, NB
E1V 4B1
506-627-4611
jimward@nb.aibn.com
First Nation ASETS
Mike Girouard
North Shore Micmac
District Council
38 Micmac Road
Eel Ground First Nation, NB
E1V 4B1
506-627-4611
michaelg@nb.aibn.com
Laurie Paul
MAWIW Council Inc.
150 Clife Street, Box R12
Fredericton, NB
E3A 0A1
506-461-5177
laurie.paul67@gmail.com
First Nation Business Liaison
Group of NB Representative
Bill Belliveau
Bell Strategic
698 Main Street
Moncton, NB
E1C 1E4
506-863-5589
bill.bellstrategic@nb.aibn.com
New Brunswick Aboriginal
Peoples Council Representative
Wendy Wetteland
Chief
320 St. Marys Street
Fredericton, NB
E3A 2S4
506-458-8422
chief@nbapc.org
New Brunswick Business
Council Representative
Susan Holt
CEO
440 King Street, Suite 626
Fredericton NB
E3B 5H8
506-444-8919
susan.holt@nbbc-cenb.ca
Private Sector Human
Resource Representative
Karen Atwin
Dragonfy Solutions
37 Friesen Drive
Islandview, NB
E3E 1A3
506-238-3384
karen.atwin9@gmail.com
Ex-Ofcios
Patrick Francis
Government of New Brunswick
Aborginal Afairs Secretariat
Kings Place
P. O. Box 6000
Fredericton, NB
E3B 5H1
506-462-5172
patrick.francis@gnb.ca
Manson Gloade
Aboriginal Afairs and Northern
Development Canada
1809 Barrington Street
Suite 500, 5th Floor, CIBC Bldg
Halifax, NS B3J 3K7
902-661-6480
manson.gloade@aandc-aadnc.gc.ca
Kalie Hatt-Kilburn
Atlantic Canada
Opportunities Agency
570 Queen Street
PO Box 578
Fredericton, NB
E3B 5A6
506-444-6144
Kalie.hatt-kilburn@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Rod Clark
Service Canada
633 Queen Street
Fredericton, NB
E3B 1C3
506-452-4298
rod.clark@servicecanada.gc.ca
Diane Hawkins
Government of New Brunswick
Department of Post-Secondary
Education, Training and Labour
Chestnut Complex
P. O. Box 6000
Fredericton, NB
E3B 5H1
506-453-8707
diane.hawkins@gnb.ca
JEDI Board of Directors
2013-2014
8
J
E
D
I

A
N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T


2
0
1
3

-

2
0
1
4
JEDI Partners
The North Shore Micmac District Council, the MAWIW Tribal Council, the New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples
Council and the Saint John River Tribal Council assist JEDI by providing guidance, establishing relationships
and assisting with JEDI projects.
The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Aboriginal Afairs and Northern Development
Canada (AANDC) support JEDI with core operational funding as well as providing fnancial and/or in-kind
assistance to projects or clients on request.
Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) provides fnancial support for the New Brunswick
Aboriginal Information and Communications Technology (NBAICT) and New Brunswick Aboriginal Mining,
Energy and Trades (NBAMET) training-to-employment projects.
The Department of Post-Secondary, Education, Training and Labour (DPETL) provides fnancial support to a
variety of initiatives such as supporting the staf positions of the Project Coordinator, the Communications
Manager, the Administrator/Registrar, the Provincial Aboriginal Employment Coordinator and the Aboriginal
Adult Learning and Apprenticeship Coordinator. DPETL also provides additional support to JEDIs projects
such as providing Workplace Essential Skills assessments and training.
The New Brunswick Aboriginal Afairs Secretariat provides assistance to JEDI by building partnership con-
nections and providing fnancial and/or in-kind assistance to projects or clients on request.
The First Nations Business Liaison Group and the New Brunswick Business Council help JEDI by establishing
relationships across New Brunswick and assisting with JEDI projects.
JEDI also routinely receives sponsorship of events such as the JEDI Plenary via the generous contributions
of many public and private sector organizations.
Former Prime Minister Paul Martin visited the October board meeting of the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) held at St. Marys First
Nation. From left to right are JEDI President Alex Dedam, New Brunswick Aboriginal Information and Communications Technology students Ian
Daly, Corrina Merasty-Gallant, and the Right Honourable Paul Martin.
9
J
E
D
I

P
R
O
G
R
A
M
S
-
E
C
O
N
O
M
I
C

A
N
D

W
O
R
K
F
O
R
C
E

D
E
V
E
L
O
P
M
E
N
T
JEDI Programs Overview
Honoring traditional values, we strive for full Aboriginal participation in the New Brunswick economy.
Since 1995, JEDI has worked closely with the Aboriginal community and many stakeholders to champion
economic development through four directions:
Supporting Community Economic Development
Supporting the Development of Aboriginal Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses
Supporting Aboriginal Workforce Development
Supporting Partnerships Between Aboriginal Communities and the Public and Private Sectors
JEDI continues to support Aboriginal Economic Development in the province of New Brunswick through
various initiatives and projects. In this section we will highlight these directions and provide examples of
the ways in which JEDI provides continued support for Aboriginal economic and workforce development.
The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) held an open house during the February JEDI Plenary in Fredericton. New Brunswick Premier
David Alward, right, looks on while New Brunswick Aboriginal Information and Communications Technology (NBAICT) student Ashley Nash
demonstrates a project she completed while studying in her JEDI organized program.
10
J
E
D
I

A
N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T


2
0
1
3

-

2
0
1
4
Supporting Community
Economic Development
JEDI completed an active year in the area of Community Economic Development. Focuses included coor-
dinating the Aboriginal Economic Development Ofcers Committee, facilitating economic development
partnerships, supporting community economic development projects, engaging communities and provid-
ing key information.
Aboriginal Economic Development Ofcers Committee
The Aboriginal Economic Development Ofcers Committee met several times during the year. Presentations
to the group included a talk from Irving Shipbuilding on opportunities on the companys multi-billion dollar
shipbuilding contract as well as a variety of presentations from various levels of government on priority pro-
gramming exploring topics ranging from community economic development support to apprenticeship.
The group also merged with the Aboriginal Employment Training Ofcers Committee to allow for greater
collaboration.
Economic Development Partnerships
JEDI helped a number of economic development partnerships take place such as Balance Means Business, the
national I Do Business initiative, the national Aboriginal Afairs Working Group efort to promote Aboriginal
economic development success stories and capacity development workshops by Ulnooweg.
Engaging Communities and Providing Key Information
A JEDI Plenary took place in April, October and February. The locations of the events were Moncton, Saint
John and Fredericton. The April Plenary focused on encouraging community economic development and
featured a presentation by Tewanee Joseph, Aboriginal co-organizer of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. The
October Plenary focused on workforce development and featured a presentation by retired RBC Executive
Vice-President Charles Cofey. The February Plenary focused on entrepreneurship and featured a variety
of panel discussions about Aboriginal innovation. This event also included a presentation by Aboriginal
entrepreneur Kendall Netmaker.
Supporting Community Economic Development Projects
JEDI assisted a number of communities with economic development projects. Highlights include continued
support of the Grey Rock Power Centre, support of wind energy projects in Eastern New Brunswick and
assistance for activities in Fredericton-area communities.
Nathan Paul of St. Marys Retail Sales speaks during the February JEDI Plenary in Fredericton. Mr. Paul took part in a panel where he talked
about how his community-owned business has brought innovation into their day-to-day operations.
11
C
O
M
M
U
N
I
T
Y

E
C
O
N
O
M
I
C

D
E
V
E
L
O
P
M
E
N
T

S
U
C
C
E
S
S

S
T
O
R
Y
Community Economic
Development Success Story
The New Brunswick Aboriginal Shipbuilding Engagement Strategy is a unique partnership between the
Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI), the North Shore Micmac District Council, the MAWIW Tribal
Council, the New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council, the Saint John River Valley Tribal Council, the
Government of Canada, the Government of New Brunswick, the New Brunswick Aerospace and Defence
Association and the New Brunswick Building Trades Council.
Launched in early 2014, the project seeks to establish a comprehensive strategy and database of skilled
Aboriginal workers and businesses that will become a blueprint for ensuring maximum Aboriginal partici-
pation in the planned National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy activity for Atlantic Canada starting in
2015. It has the support of Irving Shipbuilding.
On October 19, 2011, the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy Secretariat announced that Atlantic
Canada-based Irving Shipbuilding was selected to build combat vessels and Seaspan Marine Corporation
in BC, was selected to build non-combat vessels under the National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy.
The strategy valued the combined projects at over $36 billion and each project has an expected lifespan of
20 30 years. It is expected that $29.3 billion of this budget will be spent on the East coast over the duration
of this project. This means that there is an opportunity for high school students to graduate and move into
careers that will last for over 20 years in this industry. In fact, there are children who are not even born yet
who may work on the shipbuilding project.
Working closely with its partners, JEDI constructed a successful proposal for a project that would map
out a plan for Aboriginal participation from New Brunswick in the shipbuilding opportunities. The project
became the New Brunswick Aboriginal Shipbuilding Engagement Strategy which undertook a compre-
hensive dialogue process with Aboriginal communities and other key stakeholders to gain feedback on
how Aboriginal people in New Brunswick would like to take part in shipbuilding activity. This has included
organizing two JEDI Plenaries, eight community dialogue sessions as well as an online portal. The fnal
strategy will include a work plan and budget for suggested activities to pursue. In addition, the project has
resulted in the establishment of a database that will help communicate with individuals and businesses
interested in shipbuilding so that they can receive the support they need.
The National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy ofers many opportunities for community economic
development and JEDI will continue to work with partners to ensure Aboriginal people in New Brunswick
beneft.
Stephen Lund, Vice President of Industrial Benefts and Community Relations for Irving Shipbuilding Inc., speaks at the New Brunswick
Aboriginal Shipbuilding Engagement Strategy JEDI Plenary in Miramichi.
12
J
E
D
I

A
N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T


2
0
1
3

-

2
0
1
4
Supporting Entrepreneurship
and Business Development
JEDI undertook an ambitious agenda this past year of investing in Aboriginal entrepreneurs and small
businesses fnancially as well as with capacity building resources. This included activities through the JEDI
Aboriginal Development Fund (JADF) and via a fnancial partnership with the Aboriginal Afairs and Northern
Development Canada (AANDC) Strategic Partnerships Initiative.
JEDI economic development staf successfully secured funding via the AANDC Strategic Partnerships Initiative
for the launch of the New Brunswick Aboriginal Shipbuilding Engagement Strategy project. The initiative
seeks to work with partners to develop a strategy and database that will create a blueprint for Aboriginal
participation in the planned National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy activity in Atlantic Canada.
JEDI has provided direct support to Aboriginal entrepreneurs and commercial ventures through the JEDI
Aboriginal Development Fund (JADF) projects totalling approximately $40,000. The planning support funding
has leveraged investments through universal programming to these Aboriginal business communities. This
follows two years of increased activity.
JEDI has been assisting three Aboriginal communities with projects in energy, gaming, and major tourism. JEDI
Aboriginal community economic development assistance has helped a number of projects come to life this
year such as the Grey Rock Power Centre in Madawaska, the Riverside Entertainment Centre in Miramichi, and
strategic support to the Metepenagiag Heritage Park
JEDI has taken inventory of 112 Aboriginal businesses in New Brunswick. Sixty-nine of those businesses have
been included in a business distribution list that acts as an important communications tool to solicit feedback
on business needs and to advise those businesses about important programs and events. JEDI continues to
add businesses to that list and will merge this list with an upcoming business database that will be created via
the New Brunswick Aboriginal Shipbuilding Engagement Strategy project.
JEDI partnered with LearnSphere to ofer advanced workshops to Aboriginal businesses in Elsipogtog,
Woodstock, and St. Marys. These workshops focused on an introduction to Financial Management as well as
Marketing & Promotion. Thirty-seven business owners and managers participated. In addition, a partnership
was secured that will connect Aboriginal communities and businesses with the new LearnSphere Online
Training Tool, to be rolled out in the 2014-2015 fscal year.
JEDI met with 20 Aboriginal businesses to assist with business opportunities. JEDI referred 10 business/entre-
preneurs for development assistance to other agencies.
Brad MacMillan, founder of THE POUND in Eel Ground First Nation, is one of the many JEDI Aboriginal Development Fund clients.
Mr. MacMillans business has been experiencing signifcant growth and recognition.
13
E
N
T
R
E
P
R
E
N
E
U
R
S
H
I
P

&

B
U
S
I
N
E
S
S

D
E
V
E
L
O
P
M
E
N
T

S
U
C
C
E
S
S

S
T
O
R
Y
Entrepreneurship and
Business Development Success Story
Roche (Rocky) Sappier did not initially intend to
start a business in 2011. However, after earning
a business diploma from the New Brunswick
Community College in Woodstock and several
months of unsuccessful job searching, he real-
ized that hed have to create his own job. Now
Rocky is building his business, Aboriginal
Millennium Health Products, based on the
healing properties of honey.
Native people have a lot of chronic diseases
but there is no one who is looking into why they
do, he said. 34% of all Canadian Aboriginals
are diabetic. Honey has over 180 minerals,
enzymes and nutrients that people need for
better health.
Rocky frst discovered the benefts of raw honey
back in 2006 when he was working out West
in the oil felds. The hours of work were long
and the duties were rigorous. To cope with the
difculties of oil patch work, Rocky and his co-
workers took a variety of energy drinks, cafeine,
salt and pain pills. The positive efects of these
products were short-lived and Rockys health
began to deteriorate within the frst month.
On the oil rig he met a Metis elder from
Saskatchewan, Doug Miller. Doug was 72 or 73
years of age but looked like a man of 40. As their
friendship grew, they discussed matters of fam-
ily, spirituality and health. When Doug learned
of Rockys health issues, he gave him some
capsules flled with raw honey to take three
times/day. Within weeks, Rockys strength and
stamina improved and he had energy to spare.
When Rocky returned to New Brunswick he
wanted to continue taking raw honey so he
went to a local apiary. The beekeeper/apiarist
eventually became his partner and with the
help of his partner, family, and Aboriginal
medicinal knowledge, he developed a line of
honey-based products which included health
& wellness beverages, natural products, and
products with medical applications.
People will always need help and it is up to
us to fgure out how to give it. My products are
made to heal people,Rocky said.
Rocky is dedicated to his new venture because
he wants to create products that will help
people be healthier and live longer. For Rocky,
honey is a medicine not just a sweetener.
Its a journey into uncharted
territory and I love it, he said.
Like many entrepreneurs, Rocky saw his business
start to take shape after he tapped into support
from a number of sources like the JEDI Aboriginal
Development Fund (JADF). Rocky partnered
with the Joint Economic Development Initiative
(JEDI) to pay for the incorporation of his busi-
ness. He also received help from the University
of New Brunswick and from Karina LeBlanc,
the Executive Director at the Pond-Deshpande
Centre. The Pond-Deshpande Centre assists NB
entrepreneurs and helps them turn ideas into
businesses. Karina has helped Rocky make new
business connections and encouraged him to
apply for funding.
Laura OBlenis, CEO of Stilletto Consulting was
also a big and ongoing help, Rocky said. She
has good contacts, knows her stuf and her
heart is in the right place. She has become very
invaluable to me, like my right arm.
Rocky also acknowledges the support he
received from the Saint Marys Band ofce.
Saint Marys has developed their system
around the needs of the people, he said. If
anyone at Saint Marys has an idea, there is a
support system there. They will support you and
help you make it happen.
Rocky thanks his family and everyone else who
has helped him along the way.
There is no such thing as a self-
made man, he said. Behind him
is a family.
Rocky is currently navigating the processes
involved in starting a business such as funding
pitches, continued research, working with
production facilities, and looking for business
partners in the hopes of getting his frst product
on store shelves by late summer or early fall
2014.
Rockys advice to other Aboriginal entrepreneurs
is that you have to be willing to keep trying
when the going gets tough.
No matter what, keep going and let your per-
sonal vision and ideal guide you to the end,said
Rocky. Dont let anything deter you. And above
all, believe in yourself, your product, and what
you are doing. If you dont have persistence, you
dont have anything going for you. Find like-
minded people to help you succeed. You can be
successful in spite of the odds against you.
14
J
E
D
I

A
N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T


2
0
1
3

-

2
0
1
4
Supporting Workforce Development
During the 2013-2014 fscal year, JEDI achieved signifcant results in Aboriginal workforce development.
JEDI accomplished these results through the New Brunswick Aboriginal Information and Communications
Technology (NBAICT) Project, the New Brunswick Aboriginal Mining, Energy and Trades (NBAMET)
Project, the Provincial Aboriginal Employment Coordinator (PAEC) and the Aboriginal Adult Learning and
Apprenticeship Coordinator (AALAC) partnership with the Government of New Brunswick.
NBAICT concluded the pilot portion of the project with the graduation of 16 new Aboriginal Mobile
Application Development specialists in April. These graduates received state-of-the-art and industry-rec-
ognized training via a partnership between JEDI and the Collge communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick
(CCNB). JEDI is now assisting these graduates with employment and links to the ICT industry. JEDI is also
launching a province-wide digital literacy training program and planning for the next phase of the initiative.
NBAMET has provided clients with industry-driven training for careers as crane operators, heavy equipment
operators and truck drivers. The program has served 327 clients, trained 104 clients and helped 90 clients
secure employment. NBAMET has also worked with JEDIs Aboriginal Adult Learning and Apprenticeship
Coordinator (AALAC) to assist many individuals with apprenticeship opportunities.
JEDI has been active in Aboriginal adult learning and apprenticeship during the past year via a partner-
ship with the Government of New Brunswick. During this year, JEDI has helped 200 learners go through
the Workplace Essential Skills Training, GED and Digital Literacy. The Aboriginal Adult Learning and
Apprenticeship Coordinator has also assisted 20 Aboriginal tradespeople get certifed and registered 5 new
people in the Apprenticeship program.
Finally, the Provincial Aboriginal Employment Coordinator (PAEC) position has communicated numerous
employment opportunities to Aboriginal communities and job seekers. The position has also assisted with
the organization of the October 2013 JEDI Plenary on Aboriginal recruitment and the establishment of the
inaugural Provincial Aboriginal Job Fair.
The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) completed the pilot phase of its New Brunswick Aboriginal Information and Communications
Technology (NBAICT) Project this past year. Pictured is the graduating class of the projects Aboriginal Mobile Application Development Program
taken during graduation ceremonies in Fredericton.
15
W
O
R
K
F
O
R
C
E

D
E
V
E
L
O
P
M
E
N
T

S
U
C
C
E
S
S

S
T
O
R
Y
Workforce Development
Success Story
James Denny has always been interested in creating computer
applications and how programs were created so when the chance to study
Mobile Application Development (MAD) came along, he jumped at the
opportunity.
JEDI, in conjunction with the Collge Communautaire de Nouveau-
Brunswick, created a 57 week accredited Aboriginal Mobile Application
Development program where students learned how to program in the
latest technology for both the Apple and Android platforms. The cutting-
edge curriculum was created based on industry needs and also includes a
cultural component designed specifcally for Aboriginal students.
The students in JEDIs MAD program come from several First Nation com-
munities around New Brunswick. James is from Eel Ground First Nation
and has been studying the MAD program in Miramichi for more than a
year now. He is a mature student and has really enjoyed being back in the
classroom doing something new and exciting.
What I like best about the world of ICT is that there
are so many opportunities out there that exist for
people with coding skills, said James.
What I like best about the world of ICT is that there are so many opportu-
nities out there that exist for people with coding skills,said James. I truly
enjoy that I have a skill that, for the most part, is completely alien to the
general public. This program has prepared me to fnd employment in the
ICT feld by giving me the basic understanding and framework of computer
programming.
As graduation nears, JEDI has worked with the students to help them fnd
careers in the IT feld. In addition to providing potential employers contact
information to the students, JEDI has also brought in a variety of employers
who spoke to the students and explained the skillsets needed to work for
their companies and what the work environment would be like.
Although, there are many IT companies in NB, James and one of his class-
mates have diferent plans for the future. They have already started sketch-
ing out the business plan for their own company, KEJU Development, a
mobile app/website development company. Their plans are to expand on a
Mobile App project that they started while in school and to keep producing
more applications for the IOS and Android markets through the App store
and Google Play.
In addition, James and his business partner want to build websites for
entrepreneurs who have never had an online presence before. They also
want to hire or provide internships to new programmers so that these
programmers can gain the confdence and experience they need to ac-
celerate their careers.
JEDI wishes James the best of luck in his new career. When asked if he had
any advice for future IT students, James had this to say, Make sure that
you are fully invested in your studies. The concepts and course data are not
as easy as you might think and if you are ill-prepared you will fnd it more
challenging. Learn the languages, do the assignments and practice. But
above all, keep your learning alive and challenge yourself each and every
day.
16
J
E
D
I

A
N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T


2
0
1
3

-

2
0
1
4
Bufalo Sabres Head Coach Ted Nolan spoke during the JEDI Honouring Partnerships Luncheon at the 2013 KITF Golf Tournament in Fredericton.
The event was one of a number of new partnership gatherings JEDI launched during the 2013-2014 fscal year.
The mission of the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) is
to work with partners to foster Aboriginal economic and workforce
development in New Brunswick. JEDI carries out its mission every day
by working closely with partners such as the 15 Aboriginal communi-
ties in New Brunswick, the New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council,
the North Shore Micmac District Council, the MAWIW Tribal Council,
the Saint John River Valley Tribal Council, the Government of Canada,
the Government of New Brunswick as well as a variety of other public
sector and private sector partners.
Aboriginal Internship Program
JEDI undertook a new Aboriginal Internship Program (AIP) partnership
in 2013-2014 with ArtsNB. As part of the agreement, ArtsNB hired
two Aboriginal Outreach Ofcers to help improve Aboriginal access
to existing ArtsNB programs and lead to dedicated programs for First
Nations artists as well as partnership development for First Nations
communities and organizations.
JEDI/Brun-Way Bursary
JEDI also awarded another JEDI/Brun-Way Bursary. Candida Paul of
Esgenoopetitj, and Gail Caplin of Eel River Bar, were the two lucky
recipients of the funds.
Candida and Gail are both currently enrolled in the Aquaculture
Technician and Business Management Program taking place at the
Eel Ground Fisheries Resource Center. The 40-week course covers fn
fsh studies, shellfsh studies, hatchery protocol, hatchery design and
maintenance, small vessel operating profciency and frst aid.
KITF Golf Tournament
A new initiative this past year, the October KITF Golf Tournament
featured a JEDI-organized luncheon featuring Ted Nolan as a
keynote speaker. Held in Fredericton, the sold out event had a goal
of raising awareness of Aboriginal issues, securing new partnerships
and assisting Fredericton Aboriginal communities with promotion.
Sponsored by CCNB and St. Marys Retail Sales, the event resulted in
many new partnerships such as the collaboration on the February
2014 Innovation-focused JEDI Plenary and the partnership with
LearnSphere focused on e-learning.
JEDI Plenaries
JEDI Plenaries received sponsorship this year from a variety of exist-
ing and new partners such as RBC, the Operators Union, the City of
Moncton, Cushman and Wakefeld, the Grey Rock Power Centre, the
Pond-Deshpande Centre, the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation,
CCNB, NBCC and St. Marys Retail Sales. The Plenaries have also added
a trade show component to assist with maximum exposure of event
partners and Aboriginal entrepreneurs.
Supporting Partnerships
17
P
A
R
T
N
E
R
S
H
I
P

S
U
C
C
E
S
S

S
T
O
R
I
E
S
Partnerships Success Story
JEDI Calithumpian Students
For the past two summers, JEDI has provided funding
to the not-for-proft Fredericton Outdoor Summer
Theatre (FrOST) program. FrOST encompasses two
divisions the Calithumpians who do theatre-in-
the-park, drama camps and haunted hikes and
the Fencibles who do walking tours and heritage
activities.
This past summer, the JEDI funding subsidized
the training and employment of two Aboriginal
students, Rudi Aker and Kyle Ennis. Most student
employment programs run 6-8 weeks, but with
JEDIs funding, Rudi and Kyle were able to work a full
12 weeks with FrOST.
FrOST is a three month program that runs every
summer from June to August. It is a great summer
job for young people who are interested in a creative
and unique experience. This was Rudis third sum-
mer and Kyles frst summer in FrOSTs Fredericton
Fencibles division which provides the signature
Heritage Interpretation programming in the Historic
Garrison District (HGD) in partnership with the City of
Fredericton.
Heritage interpreters are people who try to help
others understand the signifcance of various aspects
of our culture including the geography and heritage,
shared Peter Pacey, Founder and Producer of FrOST.
The work is about sharing a sense of the history and
culture of Fredericton, the Saint John River Valley and
New Brunswick.
The positions are advertised yearly in local schools,
universities and in the media. The application process
consists of a preliminary audition and interview and
then there is a callback where applicants get a chance
to show of their creativity and writing skills. Theatre
experience isnt mandatory but FrOST is looking for
people who are a good ft; those with enthusiasm,
adaptability and good people skills.
The training includes tours of the city of Fredericton
and then lots of directed research and learning ses-
sions on the history of Fredericton, New Brunswick,
Canada and the role of the military in the HGD. In
addition to the tour training, Peter said that elders
are brought in from Native communities to talk about
the history of the Aboriginal people and how the area
developed before and after the Europeans arrived.
Peter wants the Aboriginal students to be able to
tell their own story and the story of their people. It
helps them see the relevance of their culture in the
big picture of the development of the community.
The best part of the job was meeting
all kinds of diferent people from
diferent places, shared Rudi. It was
great hearing their stories and their
perspective on our stories.
The job itself consists of doing tours of downtown
Fredericton, the guard houses, and doing some
theatre pieces and childrens activities. All of the tour
guides are given the fexibility to share information
that is the most relevant to them. The key is for
each tour guide to be themselves and enthusiastic
about the information that they are sharing, this
makes the tours more interesting for all involved. For
example, while doing the tour by the river, Kyle liked
to talk about the founding of Saint Marys and share
stories about the signifcance of the river and how its
Maliseet name means bountiful river.
Its very important that the story is told in the frst
person, said Peter. Every student is encouraged
to express their peoples role in the development
of Fredericton and share that. It raises their sense
of pride in themselves while they are still being
true to the history. This is especially true for young
Aboriginal kids. Its important for them to connect
with their own history and to connect with their
own sense of pride. Its good for them to connect
to their heritage and realize how their community
contributed to the growth.
The best part of the job was meeting all kinds of dif-
ferent people from diferent places, shared Rudi. It
was great hearing their stories and their perspective
on our stories.
I think this job has really helped me grow into
myself as a person, continued Rudi. When I frst
started I wasnt nearly as outgoing as I am now, this
job has really helped bring me out of my shell, its a
once in a lifetime job. Its a great place to work and
meet new people and come into your own. It was a
fabulous experience and Im so grateful I got to work
there not only last summer but the previous two
summers as well.
Kyle had the same feelings about the position. The
best part of the job was meeting all of the tourists
who were from so many diferent places. People
visited from all over the world, he said. I think it is
a good program especially for younger people. The
job is really good to develop confdence, be outgoing
and meet new people. Kyle said that he used to be
nervous to work in customer service but now he is
not nervous at all.
Its about accentuating what the young people can
bring to the table and shows them that their contri-
butions are signifcant, said Peter. These jobs really
afect the student hires. It helps them discover what
they want to do in life and lets them fnd themselves
and the ambition they might have.
18
J
E
D
I

A
N
N
U
A
L

R
E
P
O
R
T


2
0
1
3

-

2
0
1
4
The Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) workforce
activities are industry-driven and achieve success by working closely
with partners.
Training-to-employment initiatives
JEDI training-to-employment initiatives work on a collaboration
between Aboriginal communities, other Aboriginal partner organiza-
tions, government and the private sector to achieve a goal. JEDI and its
partners identify an employment area of need and construct a program
designed to meet that challenge. Partners infuence the design of the
training and its delivery. The result is new careers for Aboriginal people
and talented new staf for employers that are trained in skills the
employers want.
The New Brunswick Aboriginal Information and Communications
Technology Project (NBAICT) is a good example of this. NBAICT has
trained Aboriginal people in:
Orientation to ICT Careers
3G Smartphone Repair
Network/Desktop Support
Mobile Application Development
Students of the project beneft from industry-led instruction, network-
ing opportunities with potential employers, summer employment
with ICT companies and assistance fnding employment upon
graduation. The project boasts dozens of partners in the ICT industry,
Aboriginal communities and organizations as well as various levels of
government.
The New Brunswick Aboriginal Mining, Energy and Trades Project
(NBAMET) is another example. NBAMET has trained 104 clients and
helped 90 clients secure employment in a variety of felds. Aboriginal
partners along with partners from industry, government and
educational institutions have worked with JEDI to identify employment
needs and craft tailored solutions. The result has been a high success
rate in fnding employment for clients.
Adult Learning, Apprenticeship and
Employment Coordination
Workplace Essential Skills (WES) programming has been recognized
as an important tool for preparing people for careers. JEDI has worked
with its partners to weave WES instruction into all of its training
programs. In addition, JEDI has used partnerships to help hundreds of
Aboriginal people achieve skills upgrading and secure opportunities in
apprenticeship. Any Aboriginal partner, individual or industry partner
in New Brunswick may approach JEDI with a need. JEDI collaborates
with partners to provide a customized solution.
Job-ready clients then work with JEDIs employment coordination
services to secure a career from a variety of employment opportunities
supplied to JEDI by industry partners.
JEDI Workforce Development Focus
Ian Daly, left, accepts his Mobile Application Development Program
Diploma from Michel Doucet of the Collge Communautaire du
Nouveau-Brunswick during the graduation ceremony for the
Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI) Mobile Application
Development Program in April 2014. The Collge Communautaire du
Nouveau-Brunswick delivered the training on behalf of JEDI.
19
F
I
N
A
N
C
I
A
L

S
T
A
T
E
M
E
N
T
S
Financial Statements
JOINT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE INC.
Statement of Operations
Year Ended March 31, 2014

REVENUE
ESDC - NBAICT 1,996,284
ESDC- NBAMET 1,030,076
DPETL Projects 331,675
Other Funding 348,547
ACOA 290,845
AANDC 282,806
AAS 105,000
Interest Income 615
4,385,848

EXPENSES
ESDC - NBAICT 1,996,284
ESDC - NBAMET 1,030,076
DPETL Projects 331,675
Salaries & Wages 350,360
Project Costs 401,723
Conference Expenses 67,987
Rental 43,397
Travel 21,345
Ofce 32,449
Miscellaneous 18,157
Professional Fees 17,600
Telephone 17,364
Accounting fees 8,187
Advertising and promotion 7,602
Training 5,066
Repairs and maintenance 4,255
Insurance 2,245
Interest and bank charges 1,181
Utilities 164
4,357,117

EXCESS (DEFICIENCY) OF REVENUE OVER EXPENSES FROM OPERATIONS 28,731

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES)
Deferred contributions related to property and equipment -288,752
Amortization of deferred contributions related to property and equipment 28,875
Amortiziation of property and equipment -28,875
-288,752
DEFICIENCY OF REVENUE OVER EXPENSES -260,021
150 Clife Street
Fredericton, NB E3A 0A1
506-444-5650
@jedinews
facebook.com/jedinb