Ian Cramer
Ian Cramer, B.Comm (Hons). Ian is CEO of First Peoples Economic Growth Fund, a not-for-profit organization with the mandate to provide lower cost financing to support Manitoba’s First Nation business community on their business plans that are economically viable.
After Ian received his Bachelor of Commerce with Honours degree from the University of Manitoba, he took over as Director of Economic Development for Southeast Resources Development Council (SERDC), a Tribal Council representing eight indigenous communities located in southeastern Manitoba, where he led a number of initiatives, including the creation of the South Beach Casino located on the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation.
After 21 years with SERDC, in 2004, Ian became the Senior Business Advisor for the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs where he continued working on economic development issues including Gaming, Natural Resources and Energy. Working with the Grand Chief and the Manitoba Chiefs Committee on Gaming and Economic Development, he successfully negotiated an arrangement and the creation of First Peoples Economic Growth Fund, and a framework for a new Casino in Southern Manitoba.
Over his career Ian has contributed to many Boards and Committees including the federal government’s Access to Capital Task Force, Vision Quest Conferences Inc (founding member), and the University of Manitoba’s Asper School of Business for the Indigenous Business Education Program.