About Us
Dedicated to empowering Indigenous communities through sustainable development, collaboration, and leadership.
BURNS LAKE NATIVE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (BLNDC)
Founded on June 21, 1974, the Burns Lake Native Development Corporation (BLNDC) emerged as a vital organization dedicated to the economic and social advancement of the First Nations communities in the Burns Lake region. The corporation was established through the collaborative efforts of the Chiefs of several local First Nations: Lake Babine Band, Omineca Band, Cheslatta Band, Burns Lake Band, and BCANSI (Off Reserve), with the goal of fostering development and creating opportunities for their communities.
OUR EVOLUTION
The first official meeting of BLNDC took place on July 2, 1974, under the chairmanship of Mr. David K. Fraser. Over the decades, BLNDC has grown and evolved alongside its member nations. In 1984, the Omineca Band was divided into the Nee Tahi Buhn and Broman Lake Bands, further expanding the corporation’s reach. In 2000, the Skin Tyee Band separated from Nee Tahi Buhn Band, and in 2004, a new Shareholder Agreement was established to include these newly formed nations.
Today, BLNDC represents the following nations: Lake Babine Nation, Cheslatta Carrier Nation, Wet’suwet’en First Nation, Nee Tahi Buhn Indian Band, Skin Tyee First Nation, Ts’il Kaz Koh First Nation, and Off Reserve. Each nation’s Chief continues to serve as a Shareholder, while their delegates form the Board of Directors, ensuring that the corporation remains deeply connected to the needs and aspirations of the communities it serves.
OUR LEADERSHIP
As of November 7, 2023, BLNDC’s leadership includes Chiefs and Directors from each member nation.
The corporation is led by:
OUR TEAM
The day-to-day operations of BLNDC are managed by a dedicated team of professionals committed to the corporation’s mission:
LOOKING FORWARD
As BLNDC celebrates over 50 years of operations, we remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting the economic development and prosperity of our member nations. Our continued success is fueled by our unwavering dedication to our communities and the strong leadership of our Chiefs and Directors.