ULNOOWEG

15 ULNOOWEG AT 40: BUILDING THE FUTURE, ROOTED IN TRADITION MARCH 2026 « The Canadian Business Journal 14 work side by side, teaching youth both cultural traditions and STEM disciplines such as forest ecology, climate science, and water systems. The result is a program where traditional knowledge and modern science strengthen one another. The Next Wave of Growth Looking ahead, Ulnooweg is focused on emerging sectors that promise long-term, community-led growth. Clean energy and resource development stand out as key frontiers. Through the Major Resource & Energy Development Fund, Ulnooweg supports Indigenous equity participation in wind and solar projects — helping communities build intergenerational wealth and a stronger voice in Indigenous-controlled capital,” Googoo explains. “Private investment, trust-based partnerships, and demonstrated capacity are key to shifting perceptions of risk.” Ulnooweg’s ecosystem — which includes its development group, education centre, and foundation — enables the organization to deliver impact across multiple fronts. Together, they incubate new initiatives, foster entrepreneurship, and support emerging Indigenous institutions. A recent example illustrates this holistic model: Ulnooweg helped a regional marine operator purchase a vessel to support coast guard work — providing financing, workforce training connections, and infrastructure upgrades, including at the St. John dock. “That kind of full-circle support grows businesses, strengthens skills, and creates long-term jobs,” Googoo says. STEM and Land-Based Learning The onset of the pandemic tested Ulnooweg’s adaptability, but it also accelerated innovation. The Science & Innovation Program received renewed federal support, enabling the delivery of more than 600 laptops to remote communities and a shift to flexible, remote learning models. In 2021, Ulnooweg took another bold step by acquiring Windhorse Farm, a 200-acre property that serves as a land-based learning and healing centre. There, Elders and educators Carol Marie Paul played an important early role in the development of Ulnooweg, serving as the organization’s first secretary and bookkeeper. Coming from Eskasoni, she supported the foundational administrative and financial work that helped Ulnooweg establish itself as a trusted Indigenous-led institution in Atlantic Canada. As a proud member of the Eskasoni community, her contributions reflect the dedication of the people who built Ulnooweg from the ground up, strengthening opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities. Although not widely profiled publicly, her early involvement remains part of the organization’s acknowledged history and long-term success. Photograph of Carol Marie Paul (circa mid-1980s)