Oodena Gas & Convenience Grand Opening: A Milestone in Indigenous Economic Sovereignty

Last Thursday, the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce (ICC) proudly attended the grand opening of Oodena Gas & Convenience, marking an important leap in economic reconciliation as the first official business on Naawi-Oodena.

Located at 1871 Taylor Avenue, the venture is the first retail business on the newly reclaimed 109-acre site and is collectively owned by the seven Treaty One First Nations, while also being one of the largest Indigenous-led economic development sites in the country.

Community-First Employment Drives Local Empowerment

Its development is part of the Naawi‑Oodena Master Plan, which envisions a vibrant, mixed‑use community anchored by Indigenous‑owned business ventures. On this project, staffing reflects Treaty One’s commitment to community empowerment; of the 25 employees hired to run the store, 96% are Indigenous, and 84% are members of Treaty One Nations.

Moreover, the Naawi-Oodena Workforce Initiative (NOWI) ensured priority for First Nations workers during the construction phase, guaranteeing that at least a quarter of the workforce was of First Nations descent.

Chief Gordon Blue Sky, from Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, described the project as not merely an important piece of infrastructure but as the manifestation of an important vision with “a return to the original spirit and intent of Treaty No. 1”.

Chief E.J. Fontaine, President of Treaty One Development Corporation from Sagkeeng First Nation, said the project is a testament to the mission of Treaty One, forging “a strong, vibrant future for our people, by our people”.

The grand‑opening ceremony, attended by leadership from First Nations organizations, government officials, and construction partners featured speeches, cultural programming, and a ceremonial ribbon-cutting to celebrate the important milestone.

Oodena Gas & Convenience represents more than retail services; it is a foundational step in reclaiming economic sovereignty. As the first operational anchor on Naawi‑Oodena lands, it paves the way for future developments including retail spaces, housing, healthcare, and educational infrastructure. It also models how Indigenous-led ventures can generate prosperity, create jobs, and reclaim control over land and the economy.

A Foundation for Economic Self-Determination

For Treaty One leadership and observers across Canada, Oodena Gas & Convenience is a powerful example of what Indigenous governance and self‑determination can achieve, building a sustainable community-led economy.

The ICC extends our heartfelt congratulations to Treaty One nations for their incredible accomplishment. This milestone is a powerful testament to Indigenous leadership and the importance of economic sovereignty. We celebrate this achievement and look forward to supporting continued growth and prosperity.