Businesses
Swan River First Nation (SRFN) Overview
Swan River First Nation is committed to a holistic, community-based approach to economic development that balances social well-being, cultural revitalization and environmental stewardship. In May 2024, SRFN formalized its Economic Development Strategy (EDS) to guide all current and future initiatives against a clear long-term vision:
“To develop sustainable economic opportunities that contribute to social development, respect culture and tradition and advance the long-term aspirations of SRFN for self-reliance.”
The EDS establishes fixed guidelines—strengthening SRFN culture & sovereignty, respecting the environment, and achieving long-term growth—alongside shorter-term priorities such as community job creation, skills training and increasing own-source revenues. Through SMART objectives and regular monitoring and evaluation, SRFN ensures that each business venture generates economic returns, uplifts members, and preserves the Nation’s values.
The Swan River Group of Companies
To operationalize its strategy, SRFN has structured its commercial enterprises under cohesive governance. Together, these entities leverage band-owned assets, protect community interests, and pursue growth opportunities both on- and off-reserve.
Wapsewsipi Enterprises
Established as SRFN’s Construction Corp, Wapsewsipi:
- Provides management expertise and a legal contracting vehicle
- Installs and maintains community infrastructure
- Facilitates employment and training pathways for members
- Is ree clearing and ROW maintenance
Creeland Resources Inc.
Creeland Resources Inc. is SRFN’s resource-development subsidiary, incorporated under the Alberta Business Corporations Act to pursue mineral and energy opportunities in SRFN’s traditional territory and beyond. Its governance is defined by a Unanimous Shareholders’ Agreement and detailed by-laws that set out director qualifications, share restructuring, and security-holding provisions.
Kanaskiy Waste Services
Recognizing waste management as both a community need and economic opportunity, SRFN launched Kanaskiy to deliver waste management services, and regional waste-recycling solutions. This arm meets SRFN’s environmental priorities and is positioned to expand services to neighbouring communities. Kanaskiy maintains industrial and First Nation clients through a large portion of Treaty 8 territory, including in and around Slave Lake, High Prairie, Valleyview, Swan Hills, and Fox Creek.
SRFN Grocery and Liquor Stores
As a wholly-owned retail arm of the Swan River Group, our Grocery & Liquor Store serves as a one-stop community hub—offering fresh, locally sourced produce, pantry staples and everyday essentials alongside a carefully curated selection of beer, wine and spirits. Governed by Swan River Business Corporation, it creates jobs and training opportunities for SRFN members, reinvesting profits into cultural programming and community services.
Swan River Land Holdings Corporation
Swan River Land Holdings Corporation is the Nation’s dedicated real estate arm, stewarding SRFN’s land assets to drive sustainable community growth. Land Holdings Corp manages the full spectrum of real estate services, from residential housing developments and mixed-use commercial properties to strategic land acquisitions and site preparation. Profits generated are reinvested into housing initiatives, cultural infrastructure, and community-driven development projects to ensure that every land use decision reflects SRFN’s environmental stewardship and cultural values.
Future Direction
These companies operate within SRFN’s unified governance framework, aligning each venture with the Nation’s cultural values, environmental guidelines and economic objectives. As SRFN continues to pursue new opportunities, this integrated group of companies will serve as the engine for sustainable growth, community employment and long-term prosperity.