Community Update: Chief and Council Confirm Future of OKIB Group of Companies

Read the full PDF release here.

Chief and Council have approved the continued operation of the Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies (OKIBGC).

The decision follows a comprehensive review of the Group of Companies, including its governance, financial performance, legal considerations, current operations, and future economic development opportunities.

Based on the findings of that review, Chief and Council determined that the Group of Companies will continue serving as the Okanagan Indian Band’s economic development entity while implementing measures to strengthen governance, reporting, communication, and accountability.

As part of Council’s direction, the recruitment process for a new permanent Board of Directors will now begin. The current Interim Board will remain in place during the transition to ensure continuity and oversight until a permanent Board has been appointed.

Information regarding the Board recruitment process, including director qualifications, eligibility requirements, and application instructions, has been posted on the OKIB Group of Companies website (okibgc.ca). Individuals with experience in business, governance, finance, law, economic development, and other related fields are encouraged to consider applying.

The OKIB Group of Companies continues to play an important role in pursuing economic development opportunities that create long-term benefits for the Band and its Members. Current and future initiatives include work related to forestry, land development, utilities, construction, strategic partnerships, and other ventures that support economic growth, employment opportunities, and own-source revenue for the Band.

OKIB Group of Companies Community Open House

Chief and Council recognize the importance of keeping Members informed and providing opportunities to learn more about the work being undertaken on behalf of the Band.

Community Members are invited to attend the OKIB Group of Companies Community Open House on Thursday, October 1.

The Open House will provide Members with an opportunity to meet Group of Companies staff, learn more about current and upcoming projects, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of the role the Group of Companies plays in supporting economic development for the Okanagan Indian Band.

Additional details, including the time and location of the Open House, as well as information on how to apply for the Board of Directors, will be shared in the coming weeks through the OKIB Group of Companies website and other Band communication channels.

Chief and Council thank Members for their interest, patience, and engagement throughout the review process and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and building a strong economic future for the Okanagan Indian Band.

Background

• In November 2024, the Chief and Council of the day passed a Band Council Resolution directing the dissolution of the Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies.

• In November 2025, the current Chief and Council rescinded that resolution and appointed an Interim Board of Directors to undertake a comprehensive review of the Group of Companies before making a final decision regarding its future. As part of that mandate, the Interim Board was directed to review the organization’s governance, financial performance, legal considerations, operations, and future economic development opportunities and report its findings and recommendations back to Chief and Council.

• Following several months of review, the Interim Board presented its report to Chief and Council. After considering the Board’s findings and recommendations, Chief and Council approved the recommendation to continue operating the Okanagan Indian Band Group of Companies under its existing corporate structure while implementing measures to strengthen governance, reporting, and accountability.