From Community to Commerce: Lessons in Leadership with Onion Lake Cree Nation

It's Time for Success: The Business Insights Podcast

In this episode of It’s Time for Success: The Business Insights Podcast, Sharon sits down with Kyle Dillon, CEO of Onion Lake Cree Nation, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities of Indigenous entrepreneurship and leadership. Kyle shares how he helped restructure the Nation’s operations into a C-suite model, bringing stronger communication, oversight, and collaboration across governance, economic development, community services, and infrastructure.

Listeners will hear how Onion Lake is investing in self-sufficiency through Nation-owned companies, trade development, and entrepreneurial support. Kyle also talks about the importance of trust in long-term partnerships, the role of culture and Cree language revitalization, and the opportunities for entrepreneurs to step outside their comfort zones. From addressing systemic barriers under the Indian Act to fostering local trades and supporting the next generation, this conversation highlights the intersection of community, culture, and economic growth.

About Kyle Dillon

Kyle Dillon is the Chief Executive Officer of Onion Lake Cree Nation, a community of over 7,400 band members located on the Alberta-Saskatchewan border. Reporting directly to Chief and Council, Kyle leads a C-suite team overseeing governance, economic services, community services, and infrastructure. With a background in organizational leadership and a vision for sustainable growth, he has spearheaded initiatives to modernize infrastructure, expand Nation-owned businesses, and support Indigenous entrepreneurship through the Onion Lake Community Development Center.

A strong advocate for trust, collaboration, and cultural revitalization, Kyle emphasizes balancing modern governance with traditional values. His work focuses on building a self-sufficient Nation, fostering trades and business ownership within the community, and ensuring that future generations are equipped with both entrepreneurial opportunities and a strong cultural foundation.

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Onion Lake Community Development Center (CDC) – Entrepreneur support and training
• Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation (SIEF) – Financing for Indigenous entrepreneurs

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Contact Sharon DeKoning | It's Time Promotions:

• Website: itpromo.ca
• LinkedIn: Sharon DeKoning
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Contact Kyle Dillon | Onion Lake First Nation:

• Linkedin: Kyle Dillon