Ulnooweg 40th Anniversary Award Show – Date Update

We would like to share an update regarding the Ulnooweg 40th Anniversary Award Show, which was originally planned for November 12–13.

The event has been rescheduled to October 15–16, 2026 to allow us the time needed to properly honour our community, our partners, and the legacy this milestone represents.

As part of this update, nominations have been reopened and will remain open until February 15th.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. We look forward to celebrating 40 years of Indigenous leadership, entrepreneurship, and community with you.

Indigenous Innovation. Community Impact. 40 Years Strong.

Join us in celebrating four decades of empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, educators, and community leaders across Atlantic Canada.

About Ulnooweg

For 40 years, Ulnooweg has been a driving force behind Indigenous-led economic development, education, and philanthropy in Atlantic Canada. Through the Ulnooweg Development Group, Ulnooweg Education Centre, and Ulnooweg Indigenous Communities Foundation, we serve First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities with tools, funding, programs, and cultural connections that inspire lasting change.

Honouring the Past, Celebrating the Present, Inspiring the Future

This November, we’re honouring the trailblazers who are shaping the future of our communities. From entrepreneurs and educators to Elders and youth leaders, this two-day event will spotlight the best of Indigenous excellence across Atlantic Canada. Join us for powerful stories, cultural celebration, and recognition.

Location & Date:

October 15–16, 2026
Membertou Trade & Convention Centre, Unama’ki (Cape Breton)

Nominations are now OPEN!

See details below.

About the Event

Ulnooweg has been supporting Indigenous communities for four decades through entrepreneurship, education, and community-driven development. This milestone event expands our traditional Entrepreneurship Awards to also honour excellence in Education and Philanthropy.

This special anniversary celebration includes:

  • Keynote Speakers & Fireside Chats
  • Expert Panels & Breakout Sessions
  • Cultural Performances & Ceremony
  • Networking Opportunities
  • Awards Gala Evening
ONLINE_3418

The Awards

Honouring Indigenous Excellence Across Generations and Sectors

As we mark Ulnooweg’s 40th anniversary, we are proud to expand our legacy of recognition by introducing new award categories that reflect our broader mission and the growing impact of our charitable sister organizations — the Ulnooweg Education Centre and the Ulnooweg Indigenous Communities Foundation.

What began as an annual celebration of Indigenous entrepreneurship has now grown into a full-circle recognition of leadership in business, education, and philanthropy. These awards celebrate the people and projects uplifting Indigenous communities across Atlantic Canada.

Award Categories

Entrepreneurial Excellence Award

For an Indigenous-owned business that demonstrates strong performance, innovation, and a commitment to community.

Indigenous Business Leadership Award (2)

Celebrating the outstanding achievements of Indigenous entrepreneurs who are driving positive change in their communities. This award will recognize two recipients: one male and one female who exemplify leadership, innovation, and community impact through their business ventures.

Educational Advancement Award (New)

Celebrates an educator, program, or learning initiative that is advancing Indigenous knowledge systems, student success, or culturally grounded education.

Community Impact Award

Recognizes an individual, foundation, or initiative making meaningful contributions through giving, partnerships, or community-driven funding models.

Youth Leadership Award

Highlights a young Indigenous changemaker (aged 15–35) who is showing exceptional promise and inspiring others in their community.

Elder Award

Honours an Elder whose lifelong teachings, advocacy, or cultural stewardship have enriched the lives of generations.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Celebrates an individual with a sustained legacy of excellence, service, and dedication to Indigenous prosperity and self-determination.

Nomination Process

Help Us Shine a Light on Indigenous Trailblazers

We invite community members, partners, and organizations to nominate outstanding individuals and initiatives. Whether you’re lifting up a youth leader, a dedicated Elder, or a behind-the-scenes educator — we want to hear their story.

Who can Nominate

  • Anyone can submit a nomination (including self-nominations in most categories).
  • Nominees must identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, or Métis) and be based in or have significant ties to Atlantic Canada.

  • Organizations or projects nominated must be Indigenous-led or Indigenous-serving.

How to Nominate

  1. Choose a Category and review the Nomination Criteria.
  2. Complete the Online Nomination Form
    Includes contact details, a nominee bio, and a description of their impact.
  3. Submit Supporting Materials (optional but encouraged)
    Upload photos, testimonials, video clips, or articles that showcase the nominee’s work.
Review Nomination Criteria
Start your nomination

NOMINATE TODAY! Nominations are still OPEN!

Let’s honour those who uplift, inspire, and lead our communities forward.

Questions or Interested in Sponsorship?

We’d love to hear from you!

If you have any questions about the nomination process, the 40th Anniversary Awards, or if you’re interested in becoming a sponsor or partner, please reach out:

General Inquiries & Nominations Support

marketing@ulnooweg.ca 

Sponsorship Opportunities
To learn more about how your organization can support this milestone celebration and align with Indigenous excellence, contact:

Andrea Durfee
adurfee@ulnooweg.ca | (902) 893-7379 Ext 103 

Together, we can uplift and honour the leaders shaping the future of our communities