Unlocking Indigenous Economic Potential at Indigenomics on Bay

The 2024 Indigenomics on Bay Street conference brought together changemakers, corporate leaders, and Indigenous innovators to amplify the transformative power of Indigenous economies. Founded by Carol Anne Hilton, this annual event has become a must-attend for those committed to economic reconciliation. This year’s theme—“The Next $100 Billion”—challenged attendees to think big and push beyond milestones already achieved while centering Indigenous leadership and values.

Hilton’s opening keynote, “Beyond Indian Act Economics,” was a powerful reminder that outdated systems have held Indigenous economies back for far too long. Her message reinforced that: it’s time to embrace new models built on Indigenous knowledge and worldviews. Some of the standout conference topics included:

Reframing Indigenous Economic Power

Carol Anne Hilton’s keynote challenged everyone in the room to rethink what Indigenous economic success looks like. She spoke about the importance of moving beyond colonial structures like the Indian Act and focusing instead on empowering Indigenous communities to shape their own futures. Her call to action? Center Indigenous leadership, leverage data and build systems that support long-term, sustainable growth.

Data Sovereignty: The Foundation for Growth

One of our key takeaways was the critical role of Indigenous data sovereignty. Dawson Her Many Horses, Managing Director of Native American Banking at Wells Fargo, emphasized that, without control over their own economic data, Indigenous businesses are often overlooked by investors. By owning and managing their own data, Indigenous communities can unlock billions in untapped potential while also protecting their cultural and economic interests.

Driving Innovation with AI

A standout moment of the conference was the unveiling of the Indigenomics AI Economic Study, developed in partnership with Charter. This AI-powered platform aggregates and analyzes Indigenous economic data to identify growth opportunities. Hilton described it as a game-changer, shifting the narrative from one of deficits to one of power and possibility. It’s a tool designed to help Indigenous communities make strategic decisions and scale their economic impact.

Partnering for Economic Reconciliation

The breakout sessions brought practical insights into how organizations can take meaningful steps toward reconciliation. One session focused on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Call to Action #92, which calls for better corporate relationships with Indigenous communities. The discussion highlighted the importance of trust, cultural safety, and aligning policies with Indigenous values. Attendees walked away with actionable ideas for creating inclusive supply chains and adapting workplace practices to support reconciliation.

Empowering Youth and Protecting the Environment

There was also a strong focus on empowering the next generation. Mentorship, education, and youth leadership were all identified as crucial for sustaining Indigenous economic growth. Environmental stewardship also took center stage, with examples like Indigenous-led solar farms showing how traditional knowledge and innovation can work hand in hand to create economic opportunities while addressing climate change.

Conclusion: A Collective Vision for the Next $100 Billion

The Indigenomics on Bay Street conference left everyone inspired and energized about the possibilities ahead. It showcased how Indigenous knowledge, innovation, and leadership are not just shaping the future of Indigenous economies but contributing to a stronger, more sustainable global economy.

As Carol Anne Hilton put it, “Indigenous economic data holds the story of rising Indigenous economic power.” By embracing this vision and working together, Indigenous economies will thrive—unlocking the next $100 billion and beyond. To learn more about the ideas and initiatives shaping Indigenous economies, visit the Indigenomics Institute.