Indigenous
Engagement
​Establishing a foundation for Indigenous Engagement involves a sound strategy and careful planning. It will require an fulsome understanding of who you wish to engage and why you want to engage.
The engagement process takes time and it is something that doesn't happen overnight. However, with some patience and understanding, developing a strong partnership with an Indigenous Community can set the stage for effective Indigenous Engagements.
The one thing that you must understand is that every Indigenous Community is different. What works for one community many not necessarily work for another.
​However, with the proper planning and strategy it is possible to establish a strong foundation for meaningful Indigenous Engagement.
At Cambium Indigenous Professional Services (CIPS), we've been involved with Indigenous Engagement for over 30 years. In that time we have come to understand the importance of following proper protocols (and process) when it comes to developing and nurturing meaningful partnerships with Indigenous businesses, organizations and communities.
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Understanding who you want to engage, why you want to engage and having a fulsome strategy that takes into account the communities needs and wishes will lead to higher engagement rates. We know what works (and what doesn't) when it comes to successful Indigenous Engagement and Partnerships.
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You're here today because you want to understand what it is you need to start your engagement process. We can help.
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Indigenous Engagement Plans
Without a doubt, the most important element to successful Indigenous Engagement is having a well rounded, fulsome engagement plan. Doing so will allow you to optimize your engagement while being prepared for any unexpected situations. The end results are higher and more effective engagements while greatly reducing missteps and stress.
Objectives of an Indigenous Engagement plan (but not limited to):
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Identify the relevant communities;
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Learn the cultural significance of the community in relation to the engagement objective;
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The importance of relevant lands and structures;
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Identify your target, representative market;
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Optimizing your representative sample engagement rates;
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Make known the objectives to the community and allow proper feedback from Indigenous stakeholders
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Report and conclusions
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Successful Indigenous Engagements usually hinge on how well the engagement plan is developed and implemented. To find out more, please see Indigenous Engagement Plans
Indigenous Engagement Services
Do you need to begin the engagement process but not sure where to start? Understanding the complexities of Indigenous Engagement can be tricky so making sure you "get off on the right foot" is absolutely critical (for successful engagement). Whether you need a short consultation on the basics of Indigenous Engagement or a complete strategy, we can help.
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Here are just some of the areas we can assist your organization or community with:
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We have over 30 years experience so we know what to expect and where you need to concentrate your efforts. Let us help you optimize your community engagements.
Contact our CEO, Mike Jacobs for a consultation on how we can assist your engagement efforts.
Here is our CEO, Mike Jacobs explaing the 5 principles to effective Indigenous Engagement.
Here are some additional resources and guides to help you get started:
Introduction to Indigenous Engagement.
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5 Principles for Effective Indigenous Engagement
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​​Indigenous Engagement Guide
Working With Indigenous Communities...A Beginners Guide
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Duty To Consult...Where Do You Begin?
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Indigenous Awareness Training...A Foundation for Success
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Achieving Meaningful Engagement with Indigenous Communities
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Understanding Indigenous Treaties in Ontario
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Introduction to Digital Indigenous Engagement