In British Columbia, Métis entrepreneurs are creating value in every sector, from construction and consulting to health services and hospitality. Yet too often, these businesses are hidden from view. That’s where the Métis Business Directory comes in.
Developed by the Métis Financial Corporation of BC (MFC), the directory is a powerful public resource that verifies Métis-owned businesses, boosts visibility, and promotes collaboration. It’s more than a simple listing. It’s a platform designed to connect, strengthen, and grow the Métis business community.
This blog explores the directory’s purpose, how it works, and why it plays such a vital role in economic empowerment.
What Is the Métis Business Directory?
The Métis Business Directory is a publicly accessible online platform managed by MFC. It showcases businesses owned by Métis citizens in British Columbia.
The directory:
- Confirms Métis ownership
- Allows buyers and community members to find businesses by category or region
- Makes it easy for Métis entrepreneurs to promote their services
- Strengthens procurement readiness by creating visibility
The tool’s free and open to anyone. Businesses must meet specific eligibility requirements to be listed, which adds to the credibility of the platform.
Why Visibility Matters
Many Indigenous businesses operate below the radar, even within their own communities. They may not be recognized for their Indigenous ownership, or they may be overlooked during procurement or partnership opportunities.
The directory helps solve this challenge by:
- Verifying Indigenous identity and business legitimacy
- Giving Métis businesses a place to be discovered
- Encouraging inter-business referrals and partnerships
- Supporting community recognition and representation
Every listing is a step toward building a more inclusive and equitable economic landscape.
Verified Métis Ownership
MFC verifies each business that applies to be listed. To qualify, the business must be at least 51 percent Métis owned and based in the province. This level of confirmation is essential for procurement and other opportunities where proof of Indigenous ownership is required.
Listings help establish trust with buyers, funders, and potential collaborators. When people know your business is recognized as truly Métis-owned and operated, they are more likely to reach out.
Who Should Use the Directory?
The directory serves several different audiences:
Métis Entrepreneurs
Business owners can list their services, share contact details, and increase their exposure to both clients and fellow business owners. It is a tool that supports growth by helping entrepreneurs be seen and contacted.
Procurement Professionals
Government agencies, corporations, and other buyers committed to Indigenous procurement can search the directory to find qualified vendors. The platform makes it easier to meet diversity goals and support Indigenous economic inclusion.
Community Members
Métis citizens and allies who want to support Indigenous businesses can use the directory to shop local, refer businesses to others, and invest in community success.
How to Register Your Business
The process of getting listed is simple and designed to be accessible.
- Confirm eligibility
You must be a Métis Citizen (MNBC, MNA, MNO, MNS or MMF) who owns at least 51 percent of the business, and your business must be registered in BC. - Gather documentation
You will need to provide your citizenship identification, business registration, and general business contact information. - Visit the directory
Go to metisbusinessdirectorybc.ca and follow the submission process. - Wait for approval
MFC will review your application and publish your listing if it meets the requirements.
There is no fee to register or maintain your listing.
Categories Featured in the Directory
Métis entrepreneurs contribute to every part of the economy. The directory includes businesses in industries such as:
- Construction and general contracting
- Marketing and communications
- Education and training
- Cultural products and art
- Business consulting
- Food and beverage services
- Retail and e-commerce
- Health and wellness
- Environmental and natural resources
No business is too small. Sole proprietors and self-employed professionals are welcome.
What Are the Benefits of Being Listed?
Increased Exposure
Many entrepreneurs rely on word-of-mouth or social media. The directory adds another layer of visibility by making your business searchable by service area and sector.
Access to Opportunities
Buyers who want to work with Indigenous businesses often start their search with verified directories. Being listed increases your chances of being contacted for contracts, collaborations, or supplier relationships.
Enhanced Credibility
The MFC name carries weight in the Métis and Indigenous business landscape. Being listed demonstrates that your business meets identity and legitimacy criteria.
Community Connection
The platform is also used by fellow entrepreneurs who are looking for services or partners. This helps Métis businesses connect, collaborate, and support each other.
What If You Are Already Listed?
Even if you have a profile in the directory, it is important to keep it up to date. You can log in to make changes if you have moved, changed services, or updated your contact information.
Keeping your listing current ensures that buyers and community members can reach you and that you reflect your business accurately.
Supporting Indigenous Procurement
Public agencies and private sector buyers across Canada are prioritizing Indigenous procurement. The Government of Canada has committed to awarding at least five percent of its annual procurement contracts to Indigenous-owned businesses.
Source: Indigenous Services Canada
This policy creates more opportunity for Métis businesses, but only if they can be found. That is where the Métis Business Directory becomes essential. By listing your business, you make yourself discoverable by decision makers who want to work with Indigenous vendors.
If you want to learn how to pursue these contracts, read How Métis Entrepreneurs Can Access Procurement Opportunities.
MFC’s Broader Role
The directory is just one way MFC supports Métis business growth. The organization also offers:
- Business Financing
- Business Support Connections
These resources are designed specifically for Métis entrepreneurs in BC. Whether you are just starting out or scaling your business, MFC has supports available.
Explore What to Expect When Working with MFC for a full overview.
Building Community Through Connection
When Métis entrepreneurs are visible and supported, everyone benefits. The directory fosters connections between people, businesses, and communities. It is a platform that values authenticity, resilience, and self-determination.
Every listing tells a story. Every connection builds strength.
By participating in the directory, you contribute to something larger than your individual business. You help create a shared foundation for economic self-reliance, collaboration, and cultural pride.
Your Next Steps
If you are a Métis entrepreneur in British Columbia, take action today.
- Register your business in the directory
- Update your existing profile
- Contact MFC if you have questions or need assistance
- Explore MFC’s blog for more tips and success stories
Support others by referring clients to fellow Métis businesses and encouraging others to get listed.
Final Thoughts
The Métis Business Directory is a reflection of strength, resilience, and community. It brings together entrepreneurs, organizations, and buyers with a shared goal of building a more inclusive economy.
It is a simple step with lasting impact. Whether you are looking to grow your business, support your peers, or meet procurement goals, the directory is your place to start.
Make your business visible. Build your connections. Strengthen your community.