We create and manage businesses that strengthen sovereignty, provide lasting employment, and support community priorities.
Guided by our Board of Directors, we invest in businesses and initiatives that generate wealth, jobs, and stability for future generations.
Abegweit Development Inc. is a newly established entity created to lead the economic development and equity investment strategy of the Abegweit First Nation. As a cornerstone of the Nation’s broader vision for economic sovereignty, the corporation is responsible for the strategic investment in, ownership of, and management of subsidiary businesses and economic initiatives.
The primary objectives of Abegweit Development Inc. are to build community wealth, foster financial independence, and strengthen economic sovereignty. Through the creation and oversight of diverse business ventures, the organization seeks to generate sustainable employment opportunities and provide long-term financial support for community priorities and initiatives.
Fully supported by Abegweit Chief and Council, Abegweit Development Inc. plays a central role in their economic development strategy and sovereign wealth planning.
As a key instrument for the Nation’s participation in the broader Canadian economy, the corporation will serve as the primary vehicle for equity investments,
private-sector partnerships, and socio-economic advancement. This initiative is designed to reduce the Band’s reliance on federal transfer payments and external funding, paving the way toward greater self-sufficiency and long-term economic resilience.
CEO
Tyler Gould is a proud member of Abegweit First Nation and a purpose-driven leader dedicated to building sustainable, community-focused initiatives that create meaningful impact. With an MBA from Laurentian University and a BBA from the University of Prince Edward Island, Tyler began his professional career in consulting and advisory, working with MacPherson Roche Smith and Grant Thornton on a wide variety of client-centered projects. Shortly thereafter, he supported the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of PEI in business development and social enterprise initiatives.
In 2020, Tyler returned home to his community as Director of Economic Development at Abegweit First Nation, where he has led transformational initiatives including the construction of the Abegweit Connects business center, major transportation and infrastructure projects, and a net-zero, multi-use community recreation facility currently in progress. Most recently, he helped found Abegweit Development Inc. to advance economic self-sufficiency and generate sustainable revenue, serving as Acting CEO before being formally appointed CEO by the Board in 2025.
Beyond his work with Abegweit First Nation, Tyler contributes to Indigenous and regional economic development as Vice-Chair of the Indigenous Tourism Association of PEI, Co-Chair of ISC’s Atlantic Economic Development Advisory Committee, and as an appointed member of the PEI Rural Communities Council. He also teaches Indigenous Tourism at Mount Saint Vincent University and is a member of the Indigenous Leadership Circle, reflecting his commitment to fostering leadership, economic growth, and cultural sustainability in Indigenous communities.
Tyler’s personal philosophy is simple: true sovereignty is rooted in strong, self-sustaining local economies — a principle the Mi’kmaq have practiced for thousands of years and that can now be strengthened through modern, innovative approaches, including strategic engagement with corporate Canada. This belief guides how he leads, collaborates, and builds with others.
Project Manager
Bio pending
Abegweit Development Inc. serves as the economic arm of Abegweit First Nation. It is governed by a blended Board of Directors, with representation from independent members and Band leadership, and is accountable to the Abegweit First Nation Chief and Council as well as the broader community. The Board provides strategic advice and oversight to the staff of Abegweit Development Inc., in alignment with the mandate set by community leadership to manage economic development initiatives and equity investments.
We manage assets, develop new businesses, and create partnerships designed to support both present needs and long term growth. Current initiatives include:
Supporting the Band in managing projects – including capital, operational, and strategic initiatives
Managing and optimizing existing economic assets and businesses
Exploring strategic investment and business acquisition opportunities
Building mutually beneficial corporate partnerships to generate revenue and employment
Supporting Chief and Council in advancing Abegweit’s broader economic development strategy
Our work is made possible through collaboration with Innovation PEI, ACOA, and the leadership of Abegweit First Nation.
