Mississaugas of Scugog invest in controlling interest of Sky Canoe drone company

The Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation (MSIFN) has invested in the drone company Sky Canoe which delivers essential goods to isolated northern communities.

The Noozhoo Nokiiyan Limited Partnership (NNLP) manages the MSIFN investments and for-profit ventures. Through this organization, the MSIFN purchased a controlling interest in Sky Canoe which the First Nation announced on Aug. 23.

Sky Canoe manufactures zero-emission long-range Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). Their machines are essentially radio-controlled four-rotor helicopters. However, their unique design and engineering allow them to help connect remote communities, deliver cargo more affordably, and help during emergency responses.

“The company is dedicated to creating connectivity, economic development and a sustainable cargo solution for Canada’s low-carbon economy,” said Chairman and Co-Founder Jason Dudek.

With the NNLP investment, Sky Canoe becomes an official Indigenous-owned business which allows it access to additional support, financing and contracts. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission called on the public sector to embrace Indigenous businesses and workers.

The NNLP will step into a management role overseeing Sky Canoe while the design team focuses on the development of new technologies. Both have moved into a shared headquarters on the First Nation territory. The new building is set to open in September and will be home to a showroom and a training centre.

“These developments will help create employment and education opportunities for MSIFN and other Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons in the region and eventually far beyond,” the First Nation said in an announcement.

Chief Kelly LaRocca echoed this sentiment saying, “We are proud to invest in what we understand is a sector with immense potential.”