ABB forms first Canada-based, Indigenous, channel-partner collaboration with LaFlesche

ABB reported March 21 that it’s formed its first Indigenous channel-partner collaboration with LaFlesche, an indigenous‑owned, advanced manufacturing, machining and rapid prototyping firm based in the Kahnawà:ke community in Quebec. The partnership will complement LaFlesche’s products, while strengthening ABB’s network of authorized third-party vendors.

The two companies report their collaboration expands access to ABB’s automation, electrification and digitalization solutions for several sectors, such as infrastructure and manufacturing. It will also support Indigenous communities’ economic participation in critical infrastructure, and help build resilient, local-for-local supply chains. This partnership is also expected to help ABB’s customers reduce dependence on offshore supply chains.

“At LaFlesche, we’ve spent years earning the trust of some of Canada’s most important clients in critical operations by delivering precision, reliability and results when it matters most,” says Thawennontie Thomas, president of LaFlesche. “Partnering with ABB gives our clients access to globally proven automation and electrification technology, backed by a team that understands the operational realities of their environments. This is not just a business partnership. It’s a commitment to building Indigenous capacity at the highest levels of Canada’s critical infrastructure, and ensure that Indigenous businesses aren’t bystanders in that work, but trusted partners in it.”

ABB and LaFlesche add that Canada's indigenous-industry policy focuses on economic reconciliation. It seeks to increase Indigenous participation in the Canada’s economy via a federal procurement target, which supports Indigenous-owned businesses and fosters partnerships in multiple sectors.

“By partnering with an Indigenous‑owned channel partner that brings strong technical capability and credibility in critical industries, we’re expanding our ability to serve customers, while supporting inclusive economic growth,” adds Ben Venter, VP of ABB’s Energy Industries division. “This collaboration with LaFlesche reflects ABB’s commitment to building resilient supply chains and trusted partnerships that deliver value for our customers and communities alike. It is also about meaningful education and skills development, and Indigenous participation across the full lifecycle of Canada’s infrastructure.”