The Indigenous economy is rooted in collaboration and reciprocity. These values go back to ancient times of traditional trade between nations. This entrepreneurial spirit is passed on through generations, and nourished within the social fabric of families and communities.
Cassius Gentle from the Skownan First Nations in Treaty 2 Territory knows this all too well. His company Red Eagle Promotions collaborates with 10 Indigenous artists from across Canada to create his wide assortment of products for consumers as well as community and corporate events.
Gentle is highly dedicated to promoting Indigenous artists and their respective works. Red Eagle’s mission is to establish meaningful relationships with their artists, featuring all of them in their annual catalogue sent out across Canada.
Gentle promotes his company on the Shop First Nations business directory. He recently shared with us how coming from a very entrepreneurial family has inspired his own business journey and the satisfaction he gains from supporting Indigenous artists.
What is the reason you started your business? What did you do before starting this business?
I worked for my family business 'Native Reflections' and some of the products I worked with inspired me to create my own product line.
Is your business online? Physical locations? Where can people buy your products? Please list all places customers can buy your products/services.
The business is only online – for now! www.redeaglepromotions.com
Tell us a major win for your business/ big accomplishment.
I am very proud to be partnered with 10 extremely talented Indigenous artists across Canada. Without their support these products would not be possible, therefore I encourage you to support Indigenous artists when you can.
Tell us about some roadblocks or challenges you have encountered during establishing your business.
COVID-19 has been an obvious challenge for everyone involved with creating their own business. As of right now, the one difficulty I had to face was a massive increase in shipping costs to receive our products.
Tell us about some future dreams for your business.
I would love to own and operate an in store location as well as partner with and promote Indigenous artists on a national-scale.
How do you advertise for your business?
Currently with Instagram and Facebook and now with Shop First Nations
What influence does Indigenous culture have on your business?
Art in general has had a huge impression on me, my personal favourite is landscape paintings and Woodlands style which was popularized by Norval Morrisseau.
How has your family played a part in your business?
My brother owns a bookstore called www.Goodminds.com on Mohawk territory in Ontario – He has been very supportive with carrying our products and helping achieve success.
