VICTORIA, BC — A new Indigenous business directory was launched in Greater Victoria today to support Indigenous economic reconciliation by building new relationships and connections.

Created with help from various regional partners, the new South Island Indigenous Business Directory provides new opportunities for relationships, growth and partnership between community members and the many Indigenous-owned businesses across the region.

From graphic design, art and web design to engineering, project management and catering, the directory currently features more than 50 Indigenous businesses, making it easy for users to find and connect with a wide range of Indigenous-operated services in Greater Victoria.

The online directory was built by Animikii, a local Indigenous-owned company that builds custom software, web-applications and websites. The Animikii team works with leading Indigenous groups across North America to implement tech solutions for social, economic and cultural initiatives.

"Indigenous entrepreneurship is thriving in lək̓ʷəŋən Territory and I am excited to celebrate the launch of the South Island Indigenous Business Directory," said Jeff Ward, CEO of Animikii. "This milestone is a testament to our shared vision of fostering new connections, cultivating partnerships, and connecting Indigenous businesses with each other and new customers!"

Songhees Events & Catering, which is catering a launch event for participating businesses, is one of the many great South Island businesses featured in the directory.

"Songhees Events & Catering is proud to be represented in the Indigenous Business Directory and to have the opportunity to reach a broader client base within Greater Victoria," said Catherine Davies, the company’s sales and events manager. "Victoria has always been a supportive community – seeing us through hard times – and their continued support has helped us to come back stronger than ever."

Indigenous businesses and organizations are encouraged to register for the directory, which will continue to grow over time. Participation is free and interested businesses can visit indigenousbusinessdirectoryvi.com/form to register.

The directory was developed in partnership with the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority, the South Island Prosperity Partnership, the City of Victoria, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Animikii and the Capital Regional District.

For more information about the South Island Indigenous Business Directory, visit indigenousbusinessdirectoryvi.com. 

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