Indigenous-owned firms Unite in nation-to-nation energy -partnership

Key Takeaways:

• Sasuchan Development Corporation and Backwoods Energy Services—economic arms of the Takla Nation and Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, respectively—have formed a strategic partnership to promote Indigenous-led economic growth and self-determination.
• The alliance is focused on creating long-term employment, capacity building, and sustainable energy sector opportunities that align with Indigenous values and community priorities.
• Both companies emphasized that this collaboration is not just a business venture, but a demonstration of Indigenous leadership, unity across regions, and a model for future inter-Nation cooperation in the Canadian energy and services sectors.

The Whole Story:

Two Indigenous-owned businesses from Western Canada are joining forces in a new partnership aimed at strengthening economic self-determination and creating long-term prosperity for their communities.

Sasuchan Development Corporation, the economic arm of B.C.’s Takla Nation, announced Monday a formal alliance with Backwoods Energy Services, an Alberta-based company wholly owned by the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation.

The agreement brings together two Nation-owned enterprises with a shared focus on Indigenous-led growth, capacity-building and sustainable business development in the energy sector.

“This partnership is about more than just business—it’s about Indigenous-led leadership, collaboration, and building economic strength on the Nation’s terms,” said Michael Robert, CEO of Sasuchan Development Corporation. “Together with Backwoods, we are demonstrating the strength of Nation-to-Nation connections and the possibilities that emerge when we share knowledge and move forward with unity.”

Backwoods Energy Services is a prominent provider of energy and environmental services across Western Canada. CEO Dario Gnoato says the partnership reflects a broader commitment to long-term community impact.

“These collaborations go beyond joint operations,” Gnoato said. “They represent a commitment to capacity building, shared learning, and mutual success. By combining our strengths, we can deliver more innovative and efficient solutions while ensuring that the economic benefits go directly to Indigenous families and communities.”

Both organizations say the alliance will help expand employment opportunities, increase Indigenous representation in the energy sector, and foster development that respects and reflects the values of their respective Nations.

“We are proud to stand alongside Backwoods Energy Services in this important work,” Robert added.

Sasuchan Development Corporation leads economic initiatives for the Takla Nation with a focus on sustainability and cultural alignment. Backwoods Energy Services, owned by the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, is known for providing high-quality services while advancing Indigenous workforce participation and community reinvestment.