Economic Development

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The development of a sustainable economy for Kapawe’no First Nation and the entrepreneurship capacity of members is a very key goal for the department.

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• Strengthening the economic base of the Kapawe’no First Nation is an important function. Tourism is one example where economic growth is emerging. The Narrows Cultural Resort, found on the northern shore of Lesser Slave Lake, is being developed into an adventure and cultural tourism resort. Situated on a 500-acre site, the Resort’s amenities include underground electrical power, a kitchen and dining hall, dormitories, laundry and shower facilities, and portable docks. The Narrows hosted the successful Treaty 6, 7 and 8 Seventh Generation Elders’ Gathering held in August 2001;

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• The Kapown Centre continues to be the largest employer on the reserve. It is the first on-reserve alcohol treatment centre in Northern Alberta and serves the entire Lesser Slave Lake region. This 30-bed rehabilitation and residential facility for men and women provides a comprehensive alcoholism and chemical dependency treatment program in an environment in which native and non-native clients over 16 years of age are guided toward the goal of sobriety and a constructive lifestyle;

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• The band is responsible for delivery of a variety of programs to its members. The Kapawe’no First Nation Administration Office provides valuable employment and is the base of operations for the administration of programs and services delivered on the reserve;

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• Most sources of employment for band members are found off-reserve;

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• Hunting, trapping and fishing continue to be important to the way of life for the Kapawe’no people; and

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• Other employment sources include the Summer Youth Programs and Human Resource Development Projects.