Edmonton - ATB Financial has achieved bronze certification as part of the Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations (PAIR) program from the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB). This highly regarded accreditation signals an important step forward in ATB’s Indigenous Relations strategy as it demonstrates that the company is delivering on its commitment of advancing Truth and Reconciliation as it relates to Call to Action #92 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

“We deeply respect and value the relationships we’ve built with Indigenous leaders, business professionals, and the broader community,” said Curtis Stange, President & CEO of ATB Financial. "Being certified at the bronze level means that ATB Financial stands out among thousands of Canadian businesses for the work we’ve done - and the work we’re committed to doing - as partners in this journey."

PAIR certified companies are leading corporate stewards that have proven results for sustainable Indigenous relations. PAIR Bronze companies are beginning their journey through the development of strategies that prioritize collaboration with Indigenous Peoples, communities, and businesses, with the aim of fostering growth, inclusivity, and mutually-beneficial relationships.

“Participating in PAIR has provided ATB with a framework in terms of moving forward in a purposeful way to support the Indigenous economy,” said Patrick Twinn, Director, Indigenous Relations, ATB Financial. "Receiving this recognition reflects the efforts we have taken over the past seven years to advance economic self-determination for Indigenous Peoples in Alberta.

ATB’s Indigenous Relations strategy is focused on the following:

• Creating an integrative, enterprise-wide approach to foster meaningful relationships, supported by leadership, community engagement and community support.
• Leveraging its influence to bridge the gap for equitable access to capital, provide client solutions and meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples, communities and organizations.
• Advancing a truth-based approach through education and experiences, which integrate Indigenous cultural worldviews into ATB’s workplace and support Reconciliation.
• Positively impacting the Indigenous economy through an increase in representation of Indigenous suppliers in ATB’s procurement processes.
  To be the top employer for Indigenous Peoples, with a workforce that is representative of the Indigenous communities that we serve.

ATB remains committed to continuous community engagement with Indigenous Peoples, communities, and organizations to ensure its strategy prioritizes the voices of Rights holders in Alberta as it works toward advancing Truth and Reconciliation internally and within the broader community.