CCIB names Goodfish Lake Business Corporation as 2026 Indigenous Business of the Year

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Postmedia has not reviewed the content. by GlobeNewswire CCIB names Goodfish Lake Business Corporation as 2026 Indigenous Business of the YearAuthor of the article: You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.TORONTO, ON, July 29, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) has named Goodfish Lake Business Corporation (GFLBC) as the 2026 recipient of the Indigenous Business of the Year Award, recognizing its 50 years of community-driven economic growth.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLYSubscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.Exclusive articles from Barbara Shecter, Joe O'Connor, Gabriel Friedman, and others.Daily content from Financial Times, the world's leading global business publication.Unlimited online access to read articles from Financial Post, National Post and 15 news sites across Canada with one account.National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword.SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLESSubscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.Exclusive articles from Barbara Shecter, Joe O'Connor, Gabriel Friedman and others.Daily content from Financial Times, the world's leading global business publication.Unlimited online access to read articles from Financial Post, National Post and 15 news sites across Canada with one account.National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword.REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLESCreate an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.Access articles from across Canada with one account.Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.Enjoy additional articles per month.Get email updates from your favourite authors.THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK.Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.Access articles from across Canada with one accountShare your thoughts and join the conversation in the commentsEnjoy additional articles per monthGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountFounded in 1976 by Chief Sam Bull and the Economic Development Committee of Whitefish Lake First Nation #128, GFLBC was established to create employment and economic opportunities for the Nation. Beginning as a small dry-cleaning facility and local sewing club, the company now operates in garment manufacturing, industrial laundry services, environmental services, inspections and wildland firefighting services.“On behalf of our employees, and our owner, the Whitefish Lake First Nation #128, we thank Canadian Council for Indigenous Business for selecting us as a recipient of the 2026 CCIB Indigenous Business of the Year Award,” said Tom Jackson, CEO of GFLBC. “Goodfish Lake Business Corporation’s success is the result of 50 years of forward-thinking leadership and support from our community, as well as corporate support from our key customers in the oil and gas industry, and other industries. We are very pleased to receive this prestigious award.”Get the latest headlines, breaking news and columns.By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.The next issue of Top Stories will soon be in your inbox.We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try againGFLBC employs 140 permanent staff across Whitefish Lake, Lac La Biche, Fort McMurray and Edmonton. Approximately 70 per cent of employees are Indigenous, including 88 band members from Whitefish Lake First Nation #128. The company also employs 80 seasonal workers, primarily from the Nation.The Indigenous Business of the Year Award, presented by ESS Support Services Worldwide, part of Compass Group Canada, honours the achievements and contributions of an Indigenous-owned business with more than 20 employees that supports the economic, social and cultural well-being of Indigenous communities.“On behalf of ESS Support Services Worldwide, I’d like to congratulate Goodfish Lake Business Corporation on being named the CCIB 2026 Indigenous Business of the Year,” said Peter Kourtis, Chief Operating Officer, Healthcare & Remote Services at Compass Group Canada. “For 50 years, Goodfish Lake Business Corporation has shown what strong leadership and community impact look like. This award recognizes not only their business success, but the lasting legacy they’ve built. We are proud to celebrate this achievement.”GFLBC is wholly owned by Whitefish Lake First Nation #128, with profits reinvested into community priorities including infrastructure, education and economic development. The company also supports workforce development through on-the-job training and partnerships with institutions such as Portage College.“This recognition speaks to the leadership and vision that have guided Goodfish Lake Business Corporation over the past 50 years,” said Tabatha Bull, President and CEO of CCIB. “They are a clear example of how Indigenous businesses have long led the way in sustainable, community-first commerce. Their success reflects a commitment to creating opportunity, strengthening community and building a foundation for future generations.”This advertisement has not loaded yet.This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.GFLBC will be formally recognized on Oct. 15, 2026, in Vancouver during CCIB’s West Coast Business Forum and Awards Dinner.About Canadian Council for Indigenous BusinessCCIB is committed to the full participation of Indigenous Peoples in Canada’s economy. As a national, non-partisan association, its mission is to promote, strengthen and enhance a prosperous Indigenous economy through the fostering of business relationships, opportunities, and awareness. CCIB offers knowledge, resources, and programs to its members to cultivate economic opportunities for Indigenous peoples and businesses across Canada. For more information, visit www.ccib.ca.Chris Overton Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (416) 961-8663 ext. 828 coverton@ccib.ca Notice for the Postmedia NetworkThis website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.