Curve Lake First Nation
Curve Lake First Nation:
Economic Development Strategic Plan
KLB Consulting, in partnership with White Otter Consulting, had the honour of supporting Curve Lake First Nation in the development of a forward-looking, community-driven Economic Development Strategy. As a non-Indigenous firm, KLB approached this work with a deep respect for Indigenous knowledge systems, protocols, and ways of being. Partnering with White Otter Consulting, an Indigenous-led firm with deep community relationships, ensured the process was culturally grounded, guided by community protocols, and built on trust.
The engagement process was intentionally designed to move beyond traditional consultation practices. Together, we co-created a range of tailored engagement approaches that reflected the values and preferences of Curve Lake First Nation. This included kitchen table conversations with Elders, land-based activities with youth, business roundtables, hands-on workshops with community staff, and working sessions with leadership. Each method was designed to honour oral traditions, collective reflection, and the importance of community voice in decision-making.
The resulting strategy is a living roadmap rooted in Anishinaabe values of self-determination, sustainability, and respect for the land. It outlines a 5 to 10 year vision that advances priorities in cultural tourism, entrepreneurship, employment and training, land stewardship, and governance. Rather than a one-size-fits-all plan, it reflects the unique context, culture, and goals of Curve Lake First Nation. The collaboration between KLB and White Otter highlighted the value of meaningful, reciprocal relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous firms in supporting Nation-led economic development and long-term community well-being.
Key Components:
Background research on local economic conditions, trends, and policy context
Community engagement through Elder talks, youth land-based sessions, business roundtables, and staff workshops
Outreach to regional partners, funders, and institutions for alignment and support
Biweekly check-ins with Curve Lake’s project team for ongoing collaboration
Iterative drafting with community feedback shaping strategy content
Final deliverables including a 5-10 year strategy, implementation roadmap, and monitoring tools
Contact
Leisha Newton, Manager, Economic Development & Tourism, Curve Lake First Nation
Phone: 705-657-3222 x302 | Email: EconomicDevelopment@curvelake.ca
Core Sections of the Final Plan
Background Research
Community Consultations: What We Heard Summaries
Implementation Roadmap
Monitoring Tools