Five Mi’kmaw communities in Nova Scotia have made a significant move into the gaming industry with their recent acquisition of four casinos in Alberta. The communities—Millbrook, Paqtnkek, We’koqoma’q, Glooscap, and Annapolis Valley—have purchased Pure Canadian Gaming, a company that operates casinos in Edmonton, Calgary, and Lethbridge. This newly formed partnership, called Indigenous Gaming Partners (IGP), seeks to generate financial independence for the Mi’kmaw communities by expanding into the lucrative casino industry.
The Deal and Its Implications
Michael Peters, chair of IGP and a member of the Glooscap First Nation, emphasized that while the communities have operated smaller gaming initiatives, such as video lottery terminals, this purchase is a major leap into the larger casino sector. Peters expressed that this deal represents an important step in diversifying the communities’ income sources. “We’re trying to not only expand by diversifying into new industries but also geographically,” he stated.
The acquisition allows the Mi’kmaw communities to tap into the Alberta market, which differs significantly from their home market in Nova Scotia. This move offers a chance to diversify their sources of revenue, contributing to greater financial resilience. Indigenous communities benefit from what is known as “own source revenue”—income generated from business ventures, natural resources, and other initiatives outside of federal funding agreements.
The Mi’kmaw communities plan to reinvest the revenue back into essential services within their regions, such as housing, healthcare, and social programs. This will be a key focus for the group, as they look to create lasting benefits for their people.
Expanding Beyond Alberta
While IGP has no immediate plans to build casinos in Nova Scotia, the group’s leadership has expressed interest in future growth opportunities across Canada. Peters mentioned that the Mi’kmaw communities have been exploring other business ventures, including shipyards, seafood companies, and energy projects like wind farms and hydrogen initiatives.
Other Mi’kmaw communities in Nova Scotia are also pursuing business deals and acquisitions, with a particular focus on securing investments in sectors that provide economic stability and long-term benefits. Peters indicated that this approach signals a broader movement within the Mi’kmaw communities toward securing financial independence and self-sufficiency.
Economic Reconciliation and Financial Independence
For Millbrook Chief Bob Gloade, the deal represents a clear step toward economic reconciliation. He noted that the communities’ involvement in this gaming venture would lead to greater self-sufficiency and financial stability. “Our community, all our communities are going to be the direct beneficiaries of it,” said Gloade. The financial impact is expected to become apparent within a year, as each of the five Mi’kmaw bands holds an equal share in the venture.
By acquiring these four casinos, the Mi’kmaw communities are positioning themselves for greater financial autonomy. This strategic move marks a pivotal moment in their ongoing efforts to achieve economic self-reliance and foster growth within their communities.
