Michelle Toner, LINKEDIN
Toner leaves behind legacy of growth, advocacy and support for Indigenous entrepreneurs
FORT McMURRAY, AB. — The Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Business Association (NAABA) has announced that Executive Director Michelle Toner will be stepping down from her role, effective August 8, 2025.
Toner has led the organization through a period of significant growth, marked by new initiatives, expanded advocacy, and strengthened support for Indigenous businesses. Under her leadership, NAABA launched the Shared Services Program, a multi-year initiative backed by $1.178 million in government funding to provide Indigenous entrepreneurs with practical tools and resources.
She also helped increase the visibility of Indigenous business stories through the Faces of Entrepreneurship video series, produced in partnership with the Government of Alberta, Suncor, and Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo Economic Development & Tourism.
Toner played a key role in expanding NAABA’s community presence through events such as the annual golf tournament, which over the past five years has attracted more than 1,400 participants and generated $1.109 million in gross revenue. She also helped establish Indigenous Business Week and oversaw the opening of NAABA’s new office building.
In partnership with the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, Toner helped lead the development of an Indigenous Procurement Policy aimed at increasing inclusive economic opportunities. Her efforts also extended to municipal and provincial advocacy, ensuring Indigenous business perspectives were heard in policy discussions.
NAABA will host a farewell event for Toner at its Fort McMurray office on July 23 from 3 to 5 p.m. to thank her for her contributions. The board praised her work in laying a strong foundation for the organization’s continued success.
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