Ontario First Nation opens business park for Indigenous entrepreneurs

A new business park has opened at the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, offering Indigenous professionals and entrepreneurs opportunities to grow their businesses in an “inspiring” atmosphere.

The Minisi Business Park is the only First Nation on-reserve business park in the GTA and recently celebrated its soft opening.

“We have achieved a very inviting and convenient space for entrepreneurs to thrive, and felt it was good timing to remind people that MSIFN is open for business,” Chief Kelly LaRocca said. “By leasing office spaces in our Minisi Business Park, First Nation professionals can have the chance to be part of a thriving First Nation business community in the GTA.”

The availability of modern office spaces for lease for Indigenous business owners gives them a chance to establish or expand in a prime location with exclusive on-reserve tax benefits for First Nation professionals and a range of amenities, she added.

Office space from 80 sq. ft to 1,500 sq. ft. is available, with lease rates starting at $29 sq. ft., making it an affordable option for small business owners and entrepreneurs.

The business park, which boasts a 3,000 sq. ft. office building, also offers 24/7 access, high-speed internet, boardroom bookings and an onsite convenience store.

Minisi Business Park is on Island Road in Scugog, across the street from the Blue Heron Casino and minutes from the town of Port Perry. Highway 407 and Highway 401 are a short drive away.

The business park is managed by Noozhoo Nokiiyan Limited, which takes care of for-profit enterprises and investments of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation.

“We are proud to offer this unique opportunity for First Nation professionals and businesses to grow and succeed in this the state-of-the-art business park on our reserve lands,” LaRocca said. “These modern office spaces provide an ideal environment for innovation and economic development.”