Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation Arts and Crafts Strategy
Empowering Cultural Expression Through Strategic Development
Conach Consulting worked with the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation to design a comprehensive Arts and Crafts Strategy aimed at revitalizing Indigenous creative expression and generating economic opportunity for Qalipu members. The project included an in-depth consultation process across the Nation’s nine wards and delivered actionable recommendations to address barriers such as access to materials, business training, branding, and market reach. Central to the strategy was the proposed Mala designation—a culturally grounded seal of authenticity symbolizing origin and identity—which would unify Qalipu-branded craft products under a recognized standard of cultural legitimacy and quality.
Building Capacity, Connection, and Commercial Potential
The strategy outlined a phased five-year implementation plan emphasizing training, infrastructure development, and institutional support, including the hiring of an Arts and Crafts Development Specialist, a mobile and physical retail strategy, and the creation of a dedicated procurement program. It also proposed an online marketplace, quality assurance audits, and mentorship networks to scale up craft production in both traditional and contemporary forms. This initiative demonstrates Conach Consulting’s ability to integrate cultural preservation with economic development, and showcases our expertise in facilitating Indigenous-led, community-based planning for sustainable growth in the creative economy.
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