February is a meaningful time for reflection, learning, and community. This month, we acknowledge Have a Heart Day on February 14, which reminds us of the importance of equity, care, and opportunity for Indigenous children across Canada. We also honour Louis Riel Day on February 16, reflecting on the lasting legacy of Métis leader Louis Riel and his commitment to Indigenous rights and leadership. As we move through February, Aksis looks forward to continuing to support Indigenous businesses and professionals through connection, collaboration, and shared purpose.
Bear Moon (Mkwa Giizis – February): During the Bear Full Moon on February 1, the vision quest continues, encouraging us to see beyond the ordinary and communicate through energy.
Upcoming Aksis Events:
TOPONA: The Original Peoples of North America Gathering
Aksis warmly invites Indigenous business owners and professionals to join us for Tea & Bannock — a casual gathering where we come together to build connections and strengthen community.
This gathering is a space to:
🔹Connect with fellow members
🔹Share insights and experiences
🔹Engage in knowledge sharing
🔹Increase visibility within the Indigenous business network
Date: February 18, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Aksis Office, #300, 10055 – 106 Street
To register click the link: https://luma.com/lzbg1ewq
Upcoming Aksis Members Only Events:
Through our new Indigenous Business Resource Centre, Aksis launched the monthly Indigenous Women’s Leadership Circle: a space created to uplift, support, and champion Indigenous women in business professions. Across the Indigenous entrepreneurial landscape, women often lead the way but rarely have dedicated spaces designed specifically for their growth. Through our recent Aksis Annual Member survey, members indicated their interest in building a supportive circle for this reason. The Indigenous Women’s Leadership Circle aims to directly respond to that need.
The Aksis Indigenous Women’s Leadership Circle: • Supports the unique needs of Indigenous women entrepreneurs. • Provides guidance and lived experience to shape Aksis programs and services. • Creates pathways for mentorship, collaboration, and visibility. • Strengthen the ecosystem for Indigenous women in business where support has long been missing.
If you’re interested in joining the Circle, please RSVP to the link sent via email. For any further questions please email info@aksisyeg.ca
This Circle welcomes Indigenous and non-Indigenous 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: Thursday February 5, 2026 | Time: 10:00AM-12:00PM
Looking to Market your Business?
Get Your Marketing Plan Ready!
Join us for an interactive session led by Julia Johnson, NorQuest College’s Business Faculty and learn how to confidently prepare a comprehensive marketing plan.
We’ll cover:
🔹Setting marketing goals
🔹Determining market mix
🔹Defining target markets
🔹Analyzing the external environment
🔹Determining value proposition
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Join our Small Business Marketing Plan Session and get clear on your next steps.
Date: February 10, 2026, Time: 1:00-3:00PM
Please check your email and RSVP before February 4 to secure your spot!
Aksis Member Events:
📢Calling all Calgary and surrounding area friends!
For more information and to register visit: https://lnkd.in/gF9JmqB5
AKSIS Indigenous Business Directory & Marketplace
Reminder: Set Up Your Profile
This is a friendly reminder to register for the new Aksis Indigenous Business Directory & Marketplace; a public-facing platform that celebrates and showcases Indigenous businesses and professionals across the Greater Edmonton area, while offering members access to unique advertising opportunities
As many of you know, the Directory has been in a pilot phase since April 2025. During this pilot, participation was open to all members to allow for learning, testing and refinement. As we transition out of the pilot phase, adjustments will be made to better align the Directory with its purpose: supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and business owners.
Beginning in 2026, Directory listings will be a member benefit available exclusively to registered businesses. We are sharing this information early to ensure transparency and allow members time to prepare.
If you haven’t done so already, please check your inbox (and junk folder) for the registration email with setup instructions. You’ll be able to choose whether to display your contact details, while still maintaining a presence in the directory. If you encounter any issues reach out anytime at info@aksisyeg.ca—we’re happy to help.
We’re excited to feature your business in the new Directory!
Follow Us
Stay connected and keep up with our latest updates, events, and initiatives.
🌐 Website: www.aksisyeg.ca
📘 Facebook: Aksis Edmonton
📸 Instagram: @aksisyeg
🔗 LinkedIn: Aksis Edmonton
Community Events
- February 5 & 12: Elder-in-Residence – Visit Kokum Lorette Goulet (Scheduled Afternoon) | 1-3PM | 7 Sir Winston Churchill Square
- February 13: Nîcimos (Sweetheart) Round Dance | 6:00PM | EXPO Center Hall H
- February 17-19: 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference
- February 26 & 27: Residential School Truth and Reconciliation Conference | St. Albert Inn & Suites
- February 28: Adult Moccasins – Kistehitah kimeskanam | 10:00AM | Grow Centre, 10516 82 Ave NW