Celebrate 40 Years of Ulnooweg
November 16-17, 2026 @ Halifax Convention Centre
Two days of learning, celebration, and community.
Join us as we celebrate 40 years of Ulnooweg and the people, partnerships, and communities that have shaped our journey. Together, we’ll honour our history, celebrate today’s achievements, and look ahead to the future.
Our Story
Forty years ago, Indigenous leaders gathered at Liscombe Lodge with a shared vision of creating opportunities and strengthening Indigenous communities through economic development.
Over the past four decades, that vision has grown. Today, the Ulnooweg family of organizations works alongside Indigenous communities across Atlantic Canada by supporting entrepreneurship and business development, advancing education and youth opportunities, and fostering philanthropy that invests in Indigenous-led priorities.
Our work is rooted in relationships, guided by community, and strengthened through partnership. While our programs and services have evolved, our commitment remains the same: creating opportunities that empower Indigenous people and communities to thrive.
This November, we invite you to gather with us as we celebrate 40 years of progress and explore the possibilities that lie ahead.
About the Event
For 40 years, Ulnooweg has worked alongside Indigenous communities by creating opportunities through economic development, education, and philanthropy.
Day One: Programs, Partnerships & Progress
The first day will feature presentations, panel discussions, and conversations showcasing the work happening across the Ulnooweg family of organizations and with our many community and organizational partners.
Together, we’ll explore innovative approaches to economic development, education, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, community development, and collaboration. We’ll share ideas, celebrate successes, and discuss opportunities that will help shape the next generation of Indigenous leadership and community development.
The day concludes with the Ulnooweg 40th Anniversary Awards Gala, where we’ll recognize individuals whose leadership, dedication, and contributions continue to strengthen Indigenous communities across Atlantic Canada.
Day Two: Community Gathering
Honouring Our Roots. Shaping Our Future.
On the second day, we’ll come together to reflect on the vision of those who gathered at Liscombe Lodge 40 years ago.
Through storytelling, dialogue, and shared experiences, we’ll celebrate how far we’ve come while exploring the opportunities and priorities that will guide us into the future.
As we reflect on our shared history, we’ll also look ahead, continuing the conversations that will shape the next chapter of Ulnooweg and the communities we serve.
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
Help Shape the Conversation
Do you have a story, initiative, or idea that could inspire others?
We’re looking for presentations that share practical knowledge, innovative approaches, community success stories, research, and experiences that contribute to stronger Indigenous communities.
Whether you’re representing an organization, a business, a community, or sharing your own lived experience, we encourage you to submit a proposal.
Reach out to us at marketing@ulnooweg.ca
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