Speakers

Derek Epp is Chief of Tzeachten First Nation and a nationally recognized leader in Indigenous economic development.

Derek has led transformative initiatives in governance, infrastructure, and finance, including securing over $4 billion in capital through the First Nations Finance Authority, where he serves as Chair. Under his leadership, Tzeachten successfully expanded its land base through the Additions to Reserve process – completed in record time – while advocating for policy reform to support Indigenous land and taxation jurisdiction. Derek was also part of the transaction committee and subsequent Stonlasec8 Board member, who negotiated the 12.5% equity ownership of the Enbridge Westcoast natural gas pipeline.

Derek is a driving force behind national institutions such as the First Nations Tax Commission, First Nations Finance Authority, and Lands Advisory Board, helping First Nations across Canada build strong, self-determining economies. His contributions have earned him international and national honors, including the Freedom of the City of London and King Charles III’s Coronation Medal.

With deep expertise in strategic planning, financial literacy, and intergovernmental relations, Derek brings a bold and solution-oriented voice to the future of Indigenous economic empowerment.