Indigenous Entrepreneur in Residence

Melville School of Business invites applications from established or emerging Indigenous Entrepreneurs, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit for one position as Indigenous Entrepreneur in Residence. This residency will support the individual by providing a platform to enhance leadership and mentorship skills, providing networking opportunities with university faculty, staff and students in addition to external partners, increasing their visibility and recognition within academic and business communities, and by providing access to university resources including professional expertise from within the Melville School of Business.

The resident will be able to divide their time between their own projects and contributing to Melville School of Business. In their application, candidates are encouraged to detail how they envision engaging with the Melville School of Business (faculty, students, and staff) and the broader KPU community. The Indigenous Entrepreneur in Residence position will be for a period of one year beginning in April 2026. There will be some funding available for KPU‑specific events and general support.

Applications should include:

• A curriculum vitae.
• A cover letter or video that includes your statement of interest, a proposal for what projects you envision pursuing, a description of the type of events you would like to plan and how you see these contributing to the Melville School of Business and KPU.
• A statement clearly indicating your availability to be present on KPU campuses (primarily Surrey or Richmond) from April 2026 to end of February 2027.
• A letter of support or documentation regarding your connections to Indigenous community and/or an Indigenous organization, as well as lived experience.
• The names of two references.

KPU is committed to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada Calls to Actions, Universities Canada Principles on Indigenous Education, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and to supporting Indigenous Entrepreneurs and their representation and visibility within KPU and its broader communities. This program will foster community engagement and will have a positive impact on both the entrepreneur and the KPU community through sharing, dialogue, and intercultural communication.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position is intended to be of mutual benefit to both the individual in the role and the Melville School of Business. What this looks like will be determined collaboratively depending on the individual’s goals and experience. Following are some ideas of what may be included:

• Melville Engagement: participate in Melville School of Business events, workshops, seminars, engage with departments and faculty, audit classes of interest or provide guest lectures in areas of experience. This may include involvement in a Student Pitch Competition and advising faculty on the inclusion of indigenous content in their courses.
• Community Engagement: Assist the Melville School of Business in building strong relationships with local Indigenous communities, organizations and leaders to promote collaboration and support entrepreneurial initiatives.
• Mentorship and Guidance: Consult with faculty and students. This can be a two-way mentorship, both providing and receiving advice on business planning, funding, and growth strategies. Meeting regularly with the Associate Dean and/or Dean of the Melville School of Business. Providing a reflective report on their experience at the conclusion of the residency.

QUALIFICATIONS

Relevant community-based and/or professional experience rooted in Indigenous communities, knowledge and traditions. Track record of entrepreneurial experience, established or emerging. Enthusiasm for engaging with entrepreneurs of various levels of experience. Willingness to participate in events. Enthusiasm for consulting with faculty and students.

Salary Information

Anticipated hourly pay rate: $45