April is a time of steady growth and connection across the Aksis community. Our network of Indigenous entrepreneurs and professionals and non-Indigenous friends continues to expand, with members doing meaningful work together contributing to a stronger Indigenous economy.
Over the past few months, we’ve come together through workshops, gatherings, and conversations that continue to shape how we support one another. That work carries forward this month, with more opportunities to share knowledge and build relationships
On April 22, we recognize Mother Earth Day, a time to reflect on our connection with the land and the responsibility we carry to care for it.
Looking ahead, we’re preparing for a full Aksis day in May, bringing together our AGM, Member showcase, and BBQ Mixer!
Below you’ll find updates, opportunities, and highlights across the Aksis network.
Request for Collaboration – Shared Space Opportunity
Over the past few years, Aksis has become a gathering place for Indigenous entrepreneurs, professionals, and organizations across the Edmonton region. Our office has hosted valuable conversations between Indigenous businesses and industry partners. It has been a place for mentorship conversations, procurement introductions, and community-driven initiatives that continue long after the meeting ends.
Our current lease is concluding at the end of this year. This renewal gives us an opportunity to think differently about what our workspace can be.
Rather than a traditional standalone office, Aksis is exploring a shared or hosted workspace model with an organization that wants to make a tangible commitment to economic reconciliation. Right now, there are many organizations rethinking how their space is used. We believe there is real potential for partnership that creates value for both teams while strengthening relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous business communities.
For the right partner, this could take many forms. It could include co-located workspace, shared meeting areas, or simply opening a door that makes collaboration easier to happen every day rather than only at events.
Economic reconciliation is often discussed in policy and panels. This is a chance to participate in it in a practical way. If your organization has underused space or is considering ways to deepen relationships with Indigenous businesses and professionals, we would welcome a conversation.
Please connect with the Aksis team directly to discuss possibilities: ed@aksisyeg.ca
Upcoming Aksis Events:
TOPONA: On The Road
We are excited to bring TOPONA on the Road to Strathcona County, continuing to build connections across the Indigenous Business & Professional community.
This gathering extends the TOPONA circle beyond our usual space, creating room for shared learning, and relationship-building in the region. We’re grateful to Strathcona County for hosting and supporting this opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs and professionals to come together.
What to Expect:
🪶Connect with a diverse group of Indigenous entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders
🪶Participate in knowledge-sharing circles and mentorship discussions
🪶Build new relationships and discover partnership opportunities across the region
We look forward to gathering together in Strathcona County for this special TOPONA on the Road session.
Register Here: https://luma.com/u6l4wxlt
Date: April 22, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: 401 Festival Ln, Sherwood Park, AB T8A 3W7
Upcoming Aksis Members Only Events:
Through our Indigenous Business Resource Centre, Aksis hosts a monthly Indigenous Women’s Leadership Circle: a space shaped directly by member feedback.
Across the Indigenous business landscape, women are often leading initiatives and carrying significant responsibilities, yet few spaces are intentionally designed for their professional growth and peer support.
The Aksis Indigenous Women’s Leadership Circle:
• Supports the unique experiences of Indigenous women entrepreneurs and professionals
• Provides guidance and lived experience to shape Aksis programming
• Creates pathways for mentorship, collaboration, and visibility.
• Strengthens leadership pathways for Indigenous women.
If you’re interested in joining the Circle, please RSVP using the link shared via email. For any further questions please email info@aksisyeg.ca
This Circle is open to Aksis members only. If you’re interested in joining but are not yet a member, we’d love to welcome you into the Aksis Community.
https://members.aksisyeg.ca/join/
Next Circle: April 2, 2026, | Time: 10:00AM-12:00PM
AKSIS Indigenous Business Directory & Marketplace
The Aksis Indigenous Business Directory & Marketplace is a public platform that highlights Indigenous businesses and professionals across the Edmonton region.
Since launching in pilot in April 2025, the Directory has been growin steadily. As we move further into 2026, it will become a core member benefit for registered businesses.
If you haven’t already, please check your email (and junk folder) for your registration instructions. You can choose how much contact information you share publicly while still maintaining a presence.
Need help? Reach out to info@aksisyeg.ca, we are here to assist!
We’re excited to feature your business in the new Directory!
Community Events
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April 1: IndigiRise Pitch Night | 4:00PM-7:30PM | Edmonton Unlimited
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April 4: Workshop Series: Inuit Art & Culture Workshops | 11:00AM-1:00PM | Indigenous Peoples Experience, Fort Edmonton Park
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April 7: A Taste of Indigenous Canada | 12:00PM-5:00PM | Knottwood Community Centre – 449 Knottwood Rd
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April 14: Homeward Trust – Indigenous Gathering 2026 | 9:00AM-4:00PM | Edmonton Inn, 11834 Kingsway NW
Stay connected and keep up with our latest updates, events, and initiatives.
🌐 Website: www.aksisyeg.ca
📘 Facebook: Aksis Edmonton
📸 Instagram: @aksisyeg
🔗 LinkedIn: Aksis Edmonton