News release

Province Contributes to Purdy Crawford Chair in Aboriginal Business

Aboriginal Affairs (to Feb. 2021)

The province is investing in Aboriginal business studies in Nova Scotia to support job growth and development.

"The province is helping to ensure that our Aboriginal students can take full advantage of the opportunities flowing from Nova Scotia's growing economy," said Deputy Premier Corbett. "This is a unique program and I congratulate Cape Breton University, business leader Joe Shannon and, of course, Purdy Crawford for their work on an initiative that will benefit all of Nova Scotia."

Mr. Corbett, on behalf of Premier Darrell Dexter, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, announced a $500,000 investment during a celebration of the Purdy Crawford Chair in Aboriginal Business today, Sept. 6, at Cape Breton University.

The Purdy Crawford chair focuses Membertou business model research and the Unama'ki partnership. The chair, supported by the five Unama'ki communities on Cape Breton Island, pursues research to ensure the prosperity of Aboriginal communities.

The Purdy Crawford Chair in Aboriginal Business Studies is part of Cape Breton University's Shannon School of Business and is currently held by CBU vice-president Keith Brown. The university CBU is Atlantic Canada's leader in Aboriginal post-secondary education with more than 500 Aboriginal graduates.

"Government's support recognizes CBU's long-term commitment and success in preparing Aboriginal youth to take their rightful place in leading Nova Scotia," said Mr. Corbett. "The university is also helping these students' families and communities benefit from the opportunities ahead."