Deloitte in the Edmonton Journal
Read how Deloitte Canada is building trust with Indigenous communities.
Deloitte in the Edmonton Journal
Institutions must build trust to lead with purpose
The Edmonton Journal article: “Institutions must build trust to lead with purpose”, explores the fragile state of trust between Indigenous communities and corporate Canada, emphasizing that trust is not established quickly but is earned over time through ethical leadership, transparency, and genuine commitment. According to the 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer, only 53% of Canadians trust businesses, and this gap is even wider among Indigenous Peoples due to historical exclusion and broken promises.
Some organizations are responding proactively to this trust deficit. Deloitte Canada has taken significant steps by implementing and expanding its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), initially launched in 2020 in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action No. 92. Deloitte’s RAP aims to set a new standard for corporate engagement with Indigenous Peoples, focusing on building authentic relationships and mutual respect.
Deloitte’s RAP is structured around four pillars: inclusion, education, employment, and economic empowerment. These pillars guide the firm’s commitments and accountability in advancing reconciliation. In 2024, Deloitte renewed its RAP, introducing 15 refreshed commitments that are more deeply integrated into the firm’s business strategy and operations. The guiding principles include joint accountability, inclusive leadership, transparent measurement and reporting of progress.
Key initiatives highlighted in this article include the Nation Building Advisory practice, which supports First Nations in their path toward sovereignty, and the launch of R8dius, an Indigenous majority-owned professional services and technology firm. Created in partnership with Kitsaki Management, a leading First Nation economic development corporation, R8dius aims to deliver technology services while ensuring Indigenous control and benefits. A key focus has been creating STEM career opportunities for Indigenous Peoples, with a target of 70% Indigenous representation on project teams.
Additionally, Deloitte supported the establishment of the Métis Edmonton Child Care Centre, which plans to add 450 new childcare spaces in Alberta, fostering early connections to Métis heritage.
Throughout the article, Deloitte leaders stress the importance of humility, transparency, and a long-term perspective in reconciliation efforts. They emphasize that trust is built over generations and requires ongoing commitment, aligning with Indigenous teachings about considering the impact of actions on future generations. Deloitte’s goal is to become a trusted institution deeply rooted in the values and worldviews of Indigenous communities, earning respect through sustained and meaningful engagement.