Nations, financiers, governments and industry gather Nov. 4–5 to explore access to capital and the foundations of lasting partnerships.

CALGARY, AB, Nov. 3, 2026 /CNW/ -- As Canada prepares to table its federal budget, the SPARK Indigenous Energy Summit will bring a practical focus to the national conversation on Indigenous ownership and access to capital. Following last week's meeting between the Prime Minister, First Nations leadership and First Ministers, the summit will explore the financing, partnerships and decision-making needed to advance Indigenous-led energy development.

Taking place at the Grey Eagle Resort and Casino on Tsuut'ina Nation, SPARK is a two-day, Indigenous-led national gathering co-created by Mokwateh and Connect Partnership Group. Through keynotes, interactive roundtables and workshops, participants will share experience, explore investment and partnership opportunities, and identify practical next steps for their Nations and organizations.

"The 'informed' in free, prior and informed consent matters. Nations need the information, time and resources to make decisions about development on their territories," said JP Gladu, SPARK Chair and Founder and Principal at Mokwateh. "Alongside access to capital, Nations need the ability to shape projects from the beginning and remain involved throughout their life. SPARK brings Nations together with governments, industry and finance to discuss what meaningful Indigenous leadership in the energy sector looks like in practice, recognizing that each community has its own priorities and path forward."

Last year, the summit welcomed hundreds of participants representing 72 Indigenous Nations, along with 60 speakers and 40 partners. This year's program builds on that momentum with conversations focused on Indigenous economic sovereignty, equity partnership models, and closing the financing gap.

The Canadian business community firmly believes that embracing the mantle of nation builders means working in collaboration with Indigenous rights holders and communities. The stakes are high and the opportunity is historic, said Candace Laing, President & CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce. In addition to respect of the rights of Indigenous peoples, this moment is filled with the potential to create equitable opportunities and ensure that Indigenous businesses and communities share in the lasting benefits of economic and energy development. We have work to do but we can learn from and be proud of businesses demonstrating a sophisticated dedication to partnership and long-term benefits.

This year's speakers include:

• National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, Assembly of First Nations, participating virtually
• Chief Clayton Wetelainen, Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation
• Chief Raymond Powder, Fort McKay First Nation
• Peter Zebedee, President and Chief Financial Officer, Suncor
• Chana Martineau, CEO, Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation
• Candace Laing, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce
• Mark Selby, CEO and Director, Canada Nickel

The program will explore how Nations can access capital, structure equity partnerships and lead energy and infrastructure development. Discussions will also cover Indigenous rights and consent, workforce development, and the capacity communities need to achieve their long-term priorities.

Other topics include community-led power generation, energy security, broadband connectivity for Northern and remote communities, Arctic sovereignty, and emerging opportunities in nuclear energy, bioenergy, artificial intelligence, and data centres.

Members of the media are invited to attend and asked to pre-register by contacting marketing@theconnectgroup.ca. View the full agenda and speaker lineup, or visit sparkenergysummit.ca for more information.

About SPARK Indigenous Energy Summit

SPARK is a two-day Indigenous-led national summit for Indigenous energy leadership and ownership, respectful partnerships, and shared prosperity. Co-created by Mokwateh and Connect Partnership Group, it welcomes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit leaders, communities and businesses alongside energy companies, investors, and policymakers.

About Mokwateh

Mokwateh is an Indigenous-owned bridge-building consultancy working with Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses, governments and communities across the Indigenous Economy in Canada. Grounded in trust and reciprocity, Mokwateh helps partners navigate complexity, build lasting relationships, and turn commitments into practical action that advances equitable opportunities and shared prosperity.

SOURCE Connect Partnership Group