Indigenous entrepreneurs are getting a helping hand to promote and grow their business.

The Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association announced on Thursday they’re opening the Suncor Community Enterprise Centre – a collaborative networking space.

The project has been in the works for several years, helped along by a donation from the oil company.

“We are now able to offer our membership a physical space where business owners (both new and well-established) can seek support and mentorship, generate new business opportunities and showcase their services in a welcoming, but less formal space conducive to both professional and social engagement,” said Jaime Harpe, NAABA’s Board Chair.

The space will feature soft seating with plans to integrate plug and play technology that will foster an innovative and collaborative work environment.

“We are proud to have had a part of this new facility, which we hope is a valuable addition to the community to enable Indigenous business development to continue,” said Shelley Powell, Suncor’s senior vice president, Base Plant.

The centre, located at 9917 Biggs Avenue, can be used by members of NAABA.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they’re asking businesses to schedule a time ahead of time to ensure physical distancing and gathering limits are met.