Local First Nations businesses granted big dollars to spur growth

Several local First Nations will benefit from having provincial dollars infused into business projects.

The Alberta Business Indigenous Fund on Wednesday announced money for businesses that do work in Beaver Lake Cree Nation, Frog Lake First Nation, Heart Lake First Nation, Kehewin Cree Nation, Saddle Lake Cree Nation, Cold Lake First Nation and Whitefish (Goodfish) Lake Band. 

Called the Rig 14 Pump and Tank Project, $500,000 was granted to Pimee Well Servicing LP. 

Meanwhile, Comec Energy Services LP based in Cold Lake First Nations will receive $250,000. 

The Alberta Business Indigenous Fund has been a government funding outlet since 2014 and this year’s money comes from last year’s budget.

“By providing $5 million in grants through ABIF, Alberta’s government is supporting the growth of Indigenous communities, community-led job creation and economic development. Grants will go toward capital costs like equipment purchases and infrastructure builds,” a press release said.