Building on our previous blog, which outlined the 

2025 landscape for Indigenous communities in Canada and the U.S

, this follow-up dives deeper into the current legislations and economic developments, unpacking what recent changes—like 

 to help them adapt and succeed. It also sheds light on critical social shifts, and emerging opportunities for Indigenous peoples across the regions.

We’ve organized the content into two parts for a digestable read! 

Timeline of Key Dates: Tariffs & Political Events

*Trade war still currently active and continuing

🇨🇦 🇺🇸 What the Canada-U.S. Tariffs Mean

These tariffs are reshaping trade and daily life in Canada. Learn how they’re influencing business operations, consumer prices, and social outcomes- with trusted resources to guide you through the changes.

We unpack the core insights that you need to know.

Navigating the impact of tariffs means being aware of the main factors to look out for with the evolving landscape, which are the following:

Businesses: How to Strategize against Canada-U.S. Tariffs

Tariffs between Canada and the U.S. are reshaping pricing and supply chains—especially for small and medium-sized businesses. Here’s how to stay resilient and plan ahead.

Businesses are weighing up whether to absorb tariffs (like the 25% upcharge) or pass them onto customers.

 or renegotiating terms with U.S. buyers.

and evaluate demand and supply across product lines.

 to sustained cost shocks and may need added support mechanisms.

Tariffs can be a great way to diversify markets and reduce dependency.

 to Canadian or other international suppliers where possible.

—Canada has deals with over 50 countries (we provide more details in our resources below).

Reinforce operations and consumer connections at home.

 where possible—by using local ingredients and Canadian supply chains.

(e.g., there may be fewer dining-out purchases moving forward).

 suited to cost-conscious domestic demand—such as bundled products or smaller pack sizes.

 when purchasing in USD—especially as the CAD fluctuates.

- with small storefront posters - highlight if you're woman, or Indigenous-owned, and include founder images.

🏗️ Rethink Supply Chain and Logistics

A flexible supply chain can soften the impact of tariffs.

 and explore warehouse placement—like opening in the U.S. via third-party logistics (avoids double tariffing).

 or single-source imports. The De Minimis duty-free has been removed for China, so their cost for low value goods imports has increased. This impacts supply chains across North America, especially for Canadian companies that rely on their overseas commerce.

🧾 Reassess Contracts, Terms & Business Models

Use this critical moment to renegotiate and refocus.

 clarify shipping terms, shared cost clauses, and payment flexibility.

 or early payment discounts (e.g., 5% savings on cash deals).

—such as services, subscriptions, or value-added offerings.

Reduce inefficiency through automation and smart finance practices.

 to optimize workflows, warehousing, and cash flow.

 like letting go of employees—optimize first, and get them trained on using AI tools.

No tariffs currently exist on digital goods

, but stay informed as regulations evolve.

women remain less likely to adopt AI, but the gap is closing. Design onboarding and automation rollouts to be inclusive and accessible.

There's also opportunity in financing for women in tech

, particularly in Canadian tech hubs (detailed in our resources below) —a great time to unlock innovation-based investment.

🤝 Collaborate and Communicate Proactively

Work with your ecosystem to build shared solutions.

 or partnerships for warehousing, distribution, or sourcing to cut overhead.

Tariff planning isn’t just about the next quarter—it’s about future-proofing.

Diversify your supplier and customer base

: use disruption as a launchpad for innovation and strength.

 ("cash cows") while testing new growth areas.

Prices will likely rise across sectors, and small businesses often feel it first. But with the right strategy—

—you can navigate the storm and come out stronger.

Business Sectors Most Likely to Experience Changes

As tariff measures take hold, certain industries are more vulnerable to cost pressures and supply chain disruptions, particularly in the sectors below:

Small-medium businesses/enterprises (SMBs/SMEs)

2025 Landscape Revisited: What’s Happening Now for Indigenous Communities, Canada and the U.S.

, a gathering focused on advancing Indigenous prosperity and bringing together business and community leaders was held on May 14-15, 2025 at the Grey Eagle Resort & Casino, 

The dynamic event explored meaningful approaches to advancing Indigenous prosperity—ranging from networking opportunities and roundtable discussions with Nation leaders on building connections and partnerships that support cultural revitalization and reconciliation, to keynote panels featuring trailblazers sharing insights on fostering financial prosperity and innovative solutions for Indigenous communities.

The conference featured powerful voices from 

 Chiefs, as well as senior leaders from forward-thinking organizations like the 

Chief Roy Whitney of Tsuut’ina Nation takes to the stage

Our Partner Manager, Tyler Youngchief shared what one of the highlights was for him, speaking to the impacts of employment access platform, 

 and the founder, Bobbie Racette on uplifting underrepresented communities:

"It was really inspiring listening to the Indigenous women entrepreneurs and their lived experiences; creating their own businesses from a downturn in their lives, and helping others. 

Bobbie (of Virtual Gurus) came from the oil and gas industry and couldn't get a job during tough economic times, so she made her own! Creating opportunities for people to find employment that may otherwise find it more difficult, whether they're Indigenous or need special assistance - that really echoed with me." 

- Tyler Youngchief, Partner Manager at OneFeather

 has brought together the very best of Indigenous and non-Indigenous business & community leaders to respectfully explore how to advance Indigenous prosperity.

With over 24 impactful panels and sessions, multiple networking functions, over 200 nations represented, and 400+ businesses participating, this must visit gathering is the place to learn and connect.

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