Membership

Call for Board Members

If you are enthusiastic for business and share a deep dedication to fostering Indigenous businesses and economic growth in Northern Ontario, the NADF Board eagerly awaits your input!

Guiding the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund (NADF) is a committed Board of Directors, comprised of seasoned professionals offering diverse insights and expertise in business and economic development. With strong ties to the communities they serve, this dynamic team brings a rich blend of experience in economic strategy, financial management, legal matters, and cultural awareness. Unified by a shared vision of Indigenous prosperity, the board collaborates diligently to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs and propel economic advancement across the region.

Established in 1984, NADF stands as a non-profit Indigenous Financial Institution (IFI), steadfastly dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and championing Indigenous business and economic progress in Northern Ontario. The NADF Board consists of business leaders, professionals, and community representatives, all driven by a collective commitment to realize the organization's Mission and Vision.

Our Mission

To advance the well-being of Indigenous People in Northern Ontario through business and economic development.

Our Vision

Indigenous Prosperity

Board Member Roles & Responsibilities

Board Members shall attend the Annual General Meeting and have the right to exercise one (1) vote for any business transacted at the meeting, including electing directors, approving fiscal year-end financial statements, appointing the auditor for the ensuing year, and electing the Chair and Vice Chair.

Board Members are also eligible to be nominated as a candidate for Director elections. If elected as a Director, a Board Member shall serve as a Director for a 3-year term and may serve for a maximum of four (4) successive terms. Members may also be appointed to fill a vacancy on the Board of Directors and shall complete the remainder of that term.

The affairs of the Corporation are governed by its Board of Directors (“the Board”). The Board is comprised of nine (9) Board Members who are responsible and accountable for ensuring that the Corporation achieves the objects as stated in the Letters Patent. The Board, as a trustee, is responsible to act on behalf of the residents of Ontario, to develop explicit governing policies, and ensure executive performance.

The Board shall maintain its focus on long-term outcomes and provide strategic leadership to the Corporation. The Board shall meet regularly at least five (5) times per year (4 quarterly meetings and 1 annual general meeting), with at least two (2) of the meetings being in person. The Board will also convene at various times throughout the year to make decisions on loan requests of more than $250,000 that are high risk.

The Board is expected to responsibly represent NADF to their respective communities and to advocate for NADF's mission, programs, and services as appropriate.

Desired Qualifications and Skills

have relevant education and/or work experience related to finance, business and/or economic development;
have current knowledge of the challenges and opportunities for business and economic development in Northern Ontario First Nations, including remote First Nations;
ability to analyze information, problem-solve, and make decisions;
strategic thinker and leader;
strong communication skills;
ability to commit to the time commitment required;
willing to prepare for and attend board and committee meetings; and
previous board experience is an asset.

To be considered for Membership, applicants must also meet the following criteria:

You:

have not personally filed for bankruptcy.
do not have a criminal record.
have not been declared incapable under the laws of a Canadian province or territory, or by a court in a jurisdiction outside Canada.
are at least 18 years old.
do not hold a political position.

Preference shall be given to individuals who demonstrate a genuine interest in advancing the well-being of Indigenous People in Northern Ontario through business and economic development.

How to Apply

Submit the following:

Cover letter summarizing desired qualifications and skills.
Detailed resume outlining desired qualifications and skills.
Three (3) work-related references

How to Submit:

By Email: member@nadf.org

By Mail or In-Person: Please mark “Confidential”

NADF
Attn: NADF Board of Directors
100 Little Lake Road, Suite 101
Fort William First Nation, ON
P7J 1J4

Deadline to Apply: Friday, August 2, 2024 (4:00 PM EDT)

Questions? Email member@nadf.org