THE ART OF CANNING FOR CULTURAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP

NIRIQATIGINNGA: Towards a Framework for Northern Food Systems Innovation

Establishing Niriqatiginnga

The Art of Canning and Food Product Development for Cultural Entrepreneurship

Niriqatiginnga: The Art of Canning for Cultural Entrepreneurship introduces the art of canning, food preservation and product development to urban Indigenous youth in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Combining canning and hands-on skills development, participants learn to create and market a food product, while exploring opportunities for cultural entrepreneurship in the agri-food sector. The project explores sustainable food systems through traditional knowledge exchange for cultural preservation, food literacy and economic reconciliation.

In December 2023, this component of Niriqatiginnga was approved for funding from the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Program – Indigenous Agriculture and Food Systems program with Manitoba Agriculture. 

About the Project

An Introduction to Food Sector Entrepreneurship

This developmental, experimental pilot project project aims for impacts across key agriculture and agri-food sectors, particularly local food production, food processing, value-added production and new product creation. It works to build relationships with harvesters, food processors, producers, and distributors, while exploring ways to streamline getting those products into the community. 

Approaches to cross-cultural and traditional knowledge exchange, similar to a ‘train the trainer’ approach are intended to support advancing economic reconciliation through food-sector skills development, entrepreneurial capacity building, early career exposure and opportunities and growth within these sectors.

Skills Development and Empowerment

The project’s immersive workshops will equip Indigenous youth with practical canning, food preservation and introductory food industry skills. This empowerment not only preserves cultural practices but contributes to the local food production sector. By reviving traditional methods, participants enhance local food sources, aligning with sustainable agriculture practices and bolstering the local food production sector.

Entrepreneurial Capacity Building

Beyond transferable skills acquisition, participants will be introduced to concepts for cultural and food sector entrepreneurship. This capacity is intended to directly impact the agri-food sector by nurturing emerging entrepreneurs to design, create, market and sell new and value-added products. This training and early career exposure link between producers and consumers, with the goal of fostering a more resilient local food processing and distribution sector.

Sustainable Impacts and Outcomes

Transferable skills in cultural/food-sector entrepreneurship and enhanced capacity for participation in enhancing local food systems will yield broader benefits. Participants launching micro-ventures with support from established businesses nurtures self-reliance impacting local food production, processing and value-added sectors. Economic reconciliation is advanced by integrating traditional knowledge and agri-sector training. Pilot tests feasibility for future delivery.

Knowledge Exchange for Sectoral Development

Exploring Cluster-Based Approaches

Innovation Clusters can be defined as inter-connected organizations, projects and institutions working in a common industry. They involve the creation of collaborative and dynamic relationships between various players around common goals, innovative ideas, knowledge sharing, public and private investment. Clusters also foster collaborative environments around common frameworks designed to promote synergy and innovation. 

Two important examples of organizations, models and approaches we want to study are:

Arctic Foods Innovation Cluster

The Arctic Foods Innovation Cluster (AFIC) is a project that aims to pull together relevant people in the Arctic foods value chain for a cluster-based approach to food production and regional economic development. On this same front, we are also excited to learn about the UArctic Thematic Network on Northern Food Security.

Manitoba Food Development Centre

Manitoba Agriculture’s Food Development Centre (FDC) provides product commercialization, technical and research assistance for agri-food businesses. It provides a services focus on plant and animal protein products and ingredients to support the Manitoba Protein Advantage (MPA).

Exploring career pathways and Food Product Development

Our project, as an experimental pilot, stems from a desire to revive and celebrate the traditional practice of canning and food preservation. 

We view canning as not merely a method to extend shelf life; but holding cultural significance for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. Our aim is to impart these skills and empower youth to create and market their food products. 

Through hands-on canning workshops, oral history storytelling and community building, participants will learn about preserving fruits and possibly meats using traditional methods. These workshops serve as platforms for cultural exchange and relationship building, as participants will also share stories and insights related to their heritage. 

Guided by experienced mentors and food industry entrepreneurs, participants will acquire practical expertise and explore innovative approaches to food preservation. We envision an engaging process wherein participants interact closely with mentors and experts. A range of tools and materials will be provided, such as canning jars, utensils, canners, and labels. Expert facilitators will lead the workshops, ensuring that participants develop a comprehensive understanding of the art of canning and food product development. 

This project will also serve as a vehicle for building relationships needed for introducing and exploring potential pathways and opportunities for careers in the agri-food sector.

Savor the flavor of entrepreneurship and innovation while supporting Indigenous and Inuit youth in the food sector. Our initiative isn't just about selling jams and chocolates; it's a culinary journey that fosters skill development and empowers young minds to thrive in the competitive food industry. From farm to table, our program provides hands-on training in food production, quality control, and sustainable sourcing practices. Through workshops and mentorship, youth learn the ins and outs of food processing, packaging, and distribution, gaining valuable experience in every aspect of the food supply chain. By harnessing their creativity and cultural heritage, these aspiring entrepreneurs are not only creating delicious products but also building resilient businesses that contribute to community development and economic growth. With each purchase, you're not just indulging in gourmet treats; you're investing in the future of Indigenous and Inuit entrepreneurship in the thriving food sector. Join us in celebrating diversity, innovation, and culinary excellence.
Embark on a journey of skill development and empowerment while indulging in the finest culinary delights crafted by Indigenous and Inuit youth. Our initiative is more than just a fundraiser; it's a gateway to unlocking the potential of young minds and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Through the creation and sale of artisanal foods such as our exquisite jams and Winnipeg's finest chocolates, youth gain hands-on experience in culinary arts, marketing, and business management. These immersive skill-building experiences not only equip them with practical knowledge but also instill confidence and resilience as they navigate the world of entrepreneurship. Furthermore, by championing Indigenous and Inuit cultural heritage through their creations, youth cultivate a sense of pride and identity, strengthening community bonds and preserving tradition for generations to come. With every purchase, you're not just savoring delicious treats; you're investing in the skills development and future success of Indigenous and Inuit youth. Join us in shaping tomorrow's leaders one jar of jam at a time.

Advancing Economic Reconciliation

Next Steps

After the completion of this prototype/pilot canning workshop series, our project aims to extend into several significant next steps, all designed to ensure a sustained and enduring impact that can be replicated and delivered so that it will continue to benefit participants and their communities.

With this project as a prototype, we will improve and explore its potential as a replicable model for future delivery. This will include incorporating a series of in-person events and events to enhance social connectedness, while exploring deeper into food production and manufacturing. Based on these experiences, we are better able to ensure participants are well-equipped with introductory knowledge to produce high-quality products. Niriqatiginnga will build on this work by coving topics such as food safety regulations, sustainable business practices and scalability in future sessions, where participants can learn to make informed decisions and adapt to evolving market demands.

Niriqatiginnga is committed to providing ongoing mentorship to program participants. The project team understands that the journey of a arts, culture or food sector entrepreneur doesn’t end with one workshop or program. To facilitate this, we’ll explore establishing a longer-term mentorship program connecting youth, artists and aspiring food sector workers with experienced mentors.

These mentors will provide valuable insights into product development, effective marketing strategies, and the intricacies of managing a successful business. Through regular check-ins and targeted workshops, participants will have the opportunity to address challenges and refine their entrepreneurial skills. We recognize the importance of continuous learning in this journey.

Special thank you to our partners and supporters