Tailored Solutions
We provide essential financial services tailored specifically for Indigenous communities, fostering growth and sustainability. IBC is proud to offer services to communities in Treaty Areas 6, 7, and 8.
SERVICES
IBC provides development lending and financial services to First Nations' business and individuals across numerous sectors and disciplines including agriculture, heavy equipment & transportation and construction, service and hospitality industries. We have also funded a variety of viable ventures in the mining industry, audio & visual, and the oil & gas industry.
AGRICULTURE & LIVESTOCK
IBC has a long history of providing financing First Nations farmers, ranchers and other agricultural businesses with access to capital. In fact, it was our founding mandate. In addition to livestock and feed production, IBC is a leader in providing financing for agricultural/farming equipment.
HEAVY EQUIPMENT
​Having the right equipment can mean the difference between bidding on the contract and winning the contract. Whether it's time to upgrade equipment to complete the next job or simply to avoid costly maintenance and repairs on older equipment, IBC provides financing solutions to keep the job site moving.
INDIGENOUS WOMEN
ENTREPENEAURS
IBC is dedicated to empowering Indigenous Women by providing them with the resources, support, and networking opportunities they need to thrive. Through tailored programs and mentorship, IBC an inclusive environment that celebrates their unique cultural perspectives and business acumen. By prioritizing collaboration and community, IBC helps entrepreneurs turn their visions into successful ventures.
OTHER VIABLE VENTURES
IBC also offers opportunities for other viable business opportunities. IBC has helped to finance projects as diverse as mining operations, convenience stores, video productions and even windshield repair.
Latest News
Dedicated to Indigenous Growth
Our Mission
Established in 1987, the Indigenous Business Corporation (IBC) provides financing for First Nations peoples in Western Canada. We believe access to capital for First Nations peoples provides opportunities for success and development. Our Mission: To ensure every First Nation business has access to capital.
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IBC is proud of a 37 year track record providing access to capital to a variety of business sectors and initiatives helmed by First Nation's entrepreneurs in Western Canada. We've helped fund 2,500 business or expansion ventures, directly and indirectly contributed to the creation of close to 7,000 employment opportunities, and loaned nearly $80 million dollars. We're proud of the positive impact our partnership with the Aboriginal community has yielded and we seek to further expand our capacity for lending for feasible, operable businesses.
Jack Royal
Chairman & CEO
Jack Royal is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Indigenous Business Corporation and a respected leader with over 25 years of experience in First Nations governance, economic development, and executive management. In addition to his professional leadership, he has owned and operated a successful cow-calf ranch for more than two decades, grounding his work in land-based sustainability and community values.
Jack previously served as Chief Executive Officer of both the Blackfoot Confederacy Tribal Council and the Blackfoot Confederacy Chiefs Association, where he led initiatives that supported the social, political, and economic development of the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations. He was also the Founding President and General Manager of Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park, a nationally recognized cultural, educational, and tourism destination dedicated to preserving Blackfoot history and identity.
Throughout his career, Jack has held senior executive roles, including serving as CEO of Siksika Nation, where he oversaw key portfolios such as health, housing, education, and economic development. He has also contributed to governance at the provincial and national levels, including serving on the Alberta Energy Regulator Board of Directors and the Board of National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), where he previously held the role of Vice Chair and Alberta Representative.
Jack has served on numerous boards and advisory bodies, including the Child Welfare League of Canada, the Canadian Aboriginal Partnership Program, and the Alberta Aboriginal Affairs Advisory Committee, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to advancing Indigenous well-being and economic prosperity.
In recognition of his leadership and service, Jack has received several distinguished honours, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal, Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal, and the Alberta Aboriginal Role Model Award for Economic Development.
Sonal M. Ingles
Loans Manager & Business Support Office (BSO)
Sonal M. Ingles is a dedicated Loans Manager and Business Support Officer (BSO) at IBC, where she has spent the last three years empowering clients and driving financial success. Bringing over a decade of robust accounting experience to her role, Sonal combines sharp analytical expertise with a deeply client-centered approach. She is particularly passionate about her work with the Indigenous community, finding immense fulfillment in providing tailored financial guidance that fosters sustainable growth and economic empowerment.
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Originally making Calgary her home 13 years ago, Sonal balances her professional drive with a vibrant family life. She lives with her husband and is the proud mother of two beautiful children—a daughter and a son. Whether she is analyzing financial portfolios or volunteering her time, Sonal is committed to making a meaningful, positive impact in her community.
Nathan Provost
Loans Manager
My name is Nathan Provost, and my Blackfoot name is Miistuki’okiitopi (Mountain Rider). I am from the Scabby Robe People, specifically the Seldom Lonesome Clan near the Oldman River in Aapatohsi’Piikani. Over the years, I have worked in the environmental field and had the privilege to gain experience in both the private and public sectors throughout Western Canada and the United States. My past work experience has provided me with a strong foundation in relationship building, problem solving, and serving communities. It has been a pleasure, yet an honour, to have an opportunity to assist my people as a Loans Manager with Indigenous Business Corporation. Outside my work life, I remain active within the powwow circle through singing and dancing, which have been passions of mine since my childhood. Whether you are preparing your first loan application, expanding an existing business, or simply having an idea, I would encourage you to reach out. Hoka!
Heather Robertson
Finance Administrator
Heather Robertson has been a dedicated member of the Indigenous Business Corporation team for over a decade. In her role as Finance and Office Administrator, she supports the organization’s daily operations through financial administration, client service, and office coordination.
Heather plays an important role in ensuring efficient operations and strong service delivery for clients and communities. Her long-standing commitment to IBC reflects her dedication to supporting Indigenous business development and fostering positive relationships with clients and partners.
What Heather enjoys most about her role is creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. She values building connections with clients and community members and always enjoys when people stop by her office to visit and share their stories.
Heather values professionalism, organization, and creating a welcoming environment for those accessing IBC services.
Stephanie Gamble
Program Support Officer
Stephanie Gamble is a Program Support Officer with the Indigenous Business Corporation and the founder of C. Lysias Designs, an Indigenous fashion and wellness brand. Stephanie is passionate about empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, youth, and women through business development, creativity, and cultural connection.
In her role as Program Support Officer, Stephanie supports the planning and delivery of workshops, events, and entrepreneurial programs while leading communications, social media, marketing, and community partnerships. She is dedicated to connecting aspiring business owners with the resources, knowledge, and opportunities they need to build successful and sustainable businesses.
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Stephanie believes entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for healing, self-expression, and economic growth. She is committed to creating meaningful opportunities that inspire confidence, celebrate Indigenous culture, and strengthen communities.
Outside of her professional work, Stephanie is a devoted mother, grandmother, and advocate who enjoys traveling, building relationships, and using entrepreneurship as a platform to uplift and empower others.
Reviews
"Without IBC opening the door I don't know where I would be. It helped me grow as a person. I've been able to employ others. I'm a very respected entrepreneur, leader and role model."
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"It is easier to deal with IBC and they know First Nations ways."
"IBC is more accessible than the bank."