New database makes it easier to find certified Aboriginal businesses across Canada

CALGARY, Sept. 18, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) today launched the "Certified Aboriginal Business" platform, with support from patron sponsor Suncor Energy. This Canada-wide directory of pre-qualified Aboriginal businesses is publicly-available on www.ccab.com and will also provide a place to publicize work opportunities for the Aboriginal business community.

"Increasingly, corporations have begun to realize the value that Aboriginal businesses bring to the table, but it's not always obvious where to find Aboriginal contractors and suppliers," says JP Gladu, president and chief executive officer, Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. "By creating a searchable, country-wide database for certified Aboriginal businesses, we are providing a starting point for those looking to source a new supplier."

In addition to serving as a resource for Aboriginal businesses to list basic company information, the platform will also ensure each registered business receives a physical certificate verifying Aboriginal ownership - a useful asset for businesses that are bidding on new work.

"Aboriginal businesses know the customs, environment, and needs of their communities better than anyone else," says Gary Hart, senior vice president of Supply Chain and Field Logistics, Suncor Energy. "We've found that knowledge to be invaluable in our relationships with Aboriginal suppliers in the Wood Buffalo region of northern Alberta, and we hope the Certified Aboriginal Business platform can help us engage more Aboriginal businesses right across Canada."

The Certified Aboriginal Business platform has been in development for around one year, and includes approximately 250 Aboriginal-owned businesses at launch. CCAB expects that number to increase.

In addition to Suncor, the platform has been supported by sponsors Enbridge and CN, and CCAB has worked closely with the Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA) to align the new database with existing, more region-specific Aboriginal business directories and work opportunity platforms.

About the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business
The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) was founded in 1984 by a small group of visionary business and community leaders led by Murray Koffler. CCAB is committed to the full participation of Aboriginal people in Canada's economy. A national non-profit organization, CCAB offers knowledge, resources, and programs to both mainstream and Aboriginal owned companies that foster economic opportunities for Aboriginal people and businesses across Canada.

About Suncor Energy
Suncor Energy is Canada's leading integrated energy company. Suncor's operations include oil sands development and upgrading, conventional and offshore oil and gas production, petroleum refining, and product marketing under the Petro-Canada brand. While working to responsibly develop petroleum resources, Suncor is also developing a growing renewable energy portfolio. Suncor's common shares (symbol: SU) are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges.

For more information about the CCAB, please visit ccab.com or on Twitter @ccabjp.

For more information about Suncor Energy, please visit suncor.com, on Twitter @SuncorEnergy or read the company's blog, OSQAR.

SOURCE: The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business

CCAB media inquiries:
416-961-8663
[email protected]

Suncor media inquiries:
403-296-4000
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