Indigenous businesses and workers are expected to play a role in the planned high-speed rail project between Ontario and Quebec following a new agreement announced last week.
Alto and the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at creating economic opportunities for Indigenous communities connected to the project.
The agreement is designed to ensure Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses and workers are included in the construction and development of the rail line from the early stages.
The National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association represents 50 Indigenous financial institutions across Canada and has supported more than 53,000 Indigenous businesses.
Alto officials said Indigenous-led organizations will help guide how economic participation and business opportunities are developed along the rail corridor.
The Crown corporation also said reconciliation and Indigenous priorities are being considered throughout every stage of the project’s development.
