Des Nedhe and BGIS form partnership in Ela Hultsi Facilities Management

Des Nedhe Group is excited to announce its partnership with BGIS, creating Ela Hultsi Facilities Management, a Canada-wide and Indigenous owned services company. This new venture unites the extensive facility management expertise of BGIS, a leader in the global real estate management sector, with the rich heritage and entrepreneurial drive of Des Nedhe Group, proudly founded by the English River First Nation.

Since its establishment in 1991, Des Nedhe Group has transformed from a Community enterprise into a leading example of Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic development in Canada. This alliance with BGIS, a foremost name in Canada’s facilities management landscape, marks a significant step in aligning our shared values and visions. Our goal is to promote sustainable employment and business opportunities within Indigenous Communities throughout the country.

Ela Hultsi Facilities Management, inspired by the Dene phrase meaning “let’s build for the future”, aims to weave Indigenous traditions and modern sustainability practices into significant construction and facilities management projects. As an Indigenous business recognized by the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, Ela Hultsi leverages BGIS’s global presence and Des Nedhe’s profound connection to Indigenous Communities to set a new industry standard that honours cultural integrity, environmental responsibility, and innovative economic growth.

Gord Hicks, CEO of BGIS, has expressed his support for this collaboration, stating, “Partnering with Des Nedhe Group in forming Ela Hultsi represents a pivotal movement towards transforming the building management and construction landscape. It complements our dedication to sustainability and social responsibility. We look forward to the innovative opportunities this partnership will introduce.”

Sean Willy, President and CEO of Des Nedhe Group, reflects on the partnership with enthusiasm: “This collaboration is a powerful endorsement of the capabilities of Indigenous-led businesses to revolutionize industries. Ela Hultsi stands as more than a business venture; it is a cultural conduit that merges the best aspects of both organizations, ensuring our growth is inclusive and advantageous for all parties involved.”

Tamara Goddard, President of Ela Hultsi, added “Ela Hultsi is perfectly positioned to provide facilities management services and products from coast-to-coast-to-coast. With the bench strength of BGIS and Des Nedhe’s Indigenous roots, we can service all sizes of customers and ensure that our work is carried out with a grass roots commitment to sustainability and Indigenous inclusion.”

The rollout of Ela Hultsi Facilities Management is in full swing, with multiple significant projects already in progress. These initiatives are poised to demonstrate our commitment to pioneering sustainable solutions that respect and further the goals of Indigenous communities.