The energy in Thompson Rivers University’s (TRU) Grand Hall was unmistakable on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, as Indigenous-owned businesses filled the space to build stronger connections with buyers at the second annual Indigenous Vendors Showcase. Held in collaboration with Sc.wén̓wen Economic Development Corporation, the City of Kamloops and TRU, BCLC helps organize the annual showcase as one of its many initiatives to support Indigenous reconciliation.
“Purchasing and procurement are really great opportunities to bring reconciliation to life through economic opportunities and business connections,” said Jenny Miles, Social and Sustainable Procurement Manager, BCLC.
Miles explained that the showcase moved to TRU this year after outgrowing the space at BCLC’s headquarter office the first year. This year, 38 Indigenous-owned businesses were in attendance, and the working group opened it up to a wider range of business types.
TRU’s Grand Hall had a constant echo of conversation and laughter during the event. Multiple tables showcased brightly coloured artwork from vendors like AKS Artistic Design and Strong Spirit, while Warband Graphics Inc.’s booth displayed racks of custom printed apparel and merchandise. Civil construction, technology solutions, business consulting companies and more were also in attendance to display information about their services as purchasers circulated to engage with exhibitors in a face-to-face setting.
“Business cards are great, websites are amazing, but when you actually meet the person that is doing the work, and is passionate about the work they’re doing, I think you just create a different connection,” said Stephanie Tate, Economic Development Strategies, Sc.wén̓wen Economic Development Corporation.
The working group is confident that the event will continue to thrive and offer an opportunity for private and public corporations from the region to attend and learn what Indigenous-owned businesses have to offer.
“We know that Indigenous vendors play such an important role in our local economy, and this showcase helps breakdown those barriers and create process and understanding. The event creates meaningful opportunities to connect,” said Raymond Sison, Procurement and Inventory Manager, City of Kamloops.
Carrie Leonard, Owner and CEO of Sun Ridge Contracting Ltd. returned for the second consecutive year.
“I will always come back. I think it’s an opportunity for people to change their lives or for you to take an opportunity to change somebody else’s life,” Leonard said.
Read more about BCLC’s commitment to establish and maintain good relations with Indigenous Peoples at corporate.bclc.com/who-we-are/indigenous-relations.
