Training for enterprise and ownership in British Columbia's First Nation shellfish aquaculture initiatives

A successful training program for British Columbia's First Nation communities must address core issues such as: 1) delivering training in 'real' conditions, involving pilot-scale farms, on-farm internships, and mentoring 2) developing a curriculum offering opportunities for advancement, and 3) nurturing internal management and entrepreneurship capacity. The program must also address larger technical, economic, and social issues such as: 1) obtaining community buy-in and ownership of the initiative, 2) coordinating training with enterprise development, 3) providing post-training technical and advisory support, and 4) accessing markets and attracting investment. A coordinated and comprehensive development strategy is needed if BC's Aboriginal training program is to be of lasting value.