Our Project Approach
Omekanahkay also uses revenue to undertake its own infrastructure development projects to build long-term equity for its owner First Nations. The further Omekanahkay advances these development projects, the more it can rely on equity and the less it will need to rely on generated revenue to support future development projects.
Omekanahkay also uses revenue to undertake its own infrastructure development projects to build long-term equity for its owner First Nations. The further Omekanahkay advances these development projects, the more it can rely on equity and the less it will need to rely on generated revenue to support future development projects.
Wataynikaneyap Project
The Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project is a licensed transmission company owned by 22 First Nation communities in partnership with FortisOntario.
Wataynikaneyap means “line that brings light” in Anishiniiniimowin, named by the Elders who provided guidance to the partners. The company’s vision is to provide reliable and affordable power to residents, businesses, and industry in the region, realizing opportunities for First Nations. First Nations wish to own, control, and benefit from development in their traditional homelands.
Omekanahkay was initially founded largely to take advantage of opportunities to perform subcontracts for the Wataynikaneyap Project, which have included:
- Management, operations, and maintenance of remote camps and facilities
- Remote camp services including cleaning, janitorial, food, catering and other services
- Right-of-way clearing, piling, and burning
- Crushing, screening, and aggregate supply
- Construction helicopter services
- Road construction, maintenance, and repair (including winter roads)
- Freight and fuel hauling and logistics
- Indigenous training, capacity building, and employment
- Transmission line foundation installations
- Camp security services
- Administrative support for First Nations land leases
Development Initiatives
Village Corner - Vermillion Bay, Ontario
In 2022, Omekanahkay purchased a property in Vermillion Bay with 20 acres of land and an existing building on the corner of Highway 17 and Highway 105. The property is known as “Village Corner” to locals.
In Spring 2023, Omekanahkay completed minor updates to the Village Corner building and began leasing it to the Clarks (Clarks Baits). Shortly after, Omekanahkay leased a small tract of unused land on the property for self-storage.
Meanwhile, Omekanahkay is working through site permitting and environmental assessments in order to further develop the property. Omekanahkay is pursuing development of a fuel station on the property and is currently developing feasibility studies and business plans. Omekanahkay continues to investigate other opportunities for further development of the property.
Future Developments
Omekanahkay is always open to other future opportunities for development. Omekanahkay continues to investigate other ways to develop the Village Corner property as well as investigate other properties, businesses, and other investments. Ideas for future development opportunities include:
- Hotel/motel
- Residential buildings and apartments
- Hangars and/or private airstrip
- Fuel supply/distribution
- Restaurant/fast food
- Supply/distribution of oils/lubricants
- Casino/gaming
- Medical accommodations
- Equity/ownership in existing businesses
