Small Business Award winner spotlight: Muskwa Productions

At the forefront of communications and storytelling, Muskwa Productions is transforming how Indigenous narratives are shared and understood. Founded by Nicole Robertson, the company combines expertise in media relations, marketing and cross-cultural communication to deliver impactful and tailored strategies. Dedicated to amplifying Indigenous voices, Muskwa Productions crafts empowering stories that build awareness and foster understanding through a creative and culturally informed lens.

During the Calgary Chamber of Commerce Small Business Week Gala, the community celebrated outstanding entrepreneurs shaping Calgary’s economic landscape. Among the notable honorees was Muskwa Productions, receiving the ATB Indigenous Entrepreneurship Award. Nicole captivated attendees with her heartfelt reflection on the journey behind her award-winning business.

Amplifying Indigenous voices through media

Founded in 2001, Muskwa Productions emerged from Nicole’s vision to address a crucial gap in the media landscape, the need to share accurate and empowering stories of Indigenous communities.

“At the time, stories about us were told through stereotypical lenses,” says Nicole. “Indigenous people had little opportunity to tell their stories in a way that would reach mainstream media and correct misconceptions. That is what inspired me to create Muskwa Productions.”

Over two decades, Nicole has cultivated Muskwa Productions into a platform that combines Indigenous lived experience with professional storytelling expertise, reflecting on the values her company brings to every project.

“We approach every collaboration through an Indigenous lens, one that is accurate, detailed and informed by cultural knowledge. It is about more than just representation; it is about ensuring that stories are told with respect and authenticity.”

Nicole’s background speaks to her deep connection with Indigenous culture and her commitment to bridging communities. With Cree and Scottish heritage, she grew up in her mother’s Cree community and has since worked extensively at the national level, including with the Assembly of First Nations and the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business. These experiences have informed her work and grounded her in the importance of justice, truth and cultural preservation.

“Curiosity and truth-seeking have always driven me. From an early age, I saw injustices and questioned why our stories were not being told. That is where my passion for storytelling began” she says.

Being recognized for strength and resilience

Receiving the ATB Indigenous Entrepreneurship Award marks a significant milestone for Muskwa Productions.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled,” she says. “This award represents more than recognition; it reflects a community’s embrace of our work. Over the years, I have connected with so many incredible people, and this acknowledgment strengthens my resolve to continue telling meaningful stories.”

Muskwa Productions takes its name from the Cree word for bear, honouring Nicole’s maternal family name. Bears symbolize strength and resilience, qualities that resonate deeply with the company’s mission.

“Our Indigenous worldview teaches us to honour our ancestors. Everything we do is about creating intergenerational wealth, knowledge and resilience—spiritually, mentally, physically and emotionally.”

Nicole’s perspective on economic history adds another layer to her company’s narrative. During her acceptance speech, she highlighted her family’s connection to Canada’s fur trade.

“My grandfather was a trapper and fur trader who contributed to the economic foundation of this country,” she says. “When I wore a fox fur at the gala, it was not just an accessory; it was a symbol of our family’s legacy and a reminder of the resilience of Indigenous economies.”

Looking ahead to the future

Beyond storytelling, Nicole sees Muskwa Productions as a catalyst for economic growth within Indigenous communities.

“Indigenous business is growing faster than non-Indigenous business in Canada, especially because of Indigenous women entrepreneurs. However, systemic barriers like the Indian Act still limit access to capital for businesses on reserves. That is why organizations like the National Aboriginal Capital Corporation Association and the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation are vital to fostering growth.”

Nicole also highlighted the importance of sustainability in business. Living close to nature has shaped her perspective on how businesses can operate responsibly.

“Whether it is water conservation or reducing production waste, we need to be better stewards of the land,” she says. “The Indigenous Screen Office, for instance, is exploring ways for the film industry to adopt sustainable practices. It is about aligning economic success with environmental responsibility.”

Looking ahead, Nicole’s vision for Muskwa Productions is expansive. She expressed a desire to collaborate with Indigenous communities globally, particularly Pacific Islanders and the Maori of New Zealand.

“There is so much potential for cross-cultural storytelling. I have always been inspired by Indigenous tourism and would love to explore opportunities that connect us through shared histories and values.”

The Calgary Chamber of Commerce congratulates Muskwa Productions on their well-deserved recognition. Nicole’s unwavering commitment to truth, resilience and community exemplifies the best of Calgary’s entrepreneurial spirit. As Muskwa Productions continues to grow, its impact will undoubtedly inspire generations to come.

To learn more about Muskwa Productions, visit Indigenous People Media | Muskwa Productions. See the full list of winners from the 41st Calgary Small Business Awards.

Small Business Week is proudly presented by our Small Business Pillar Partner, Rogers Business. To learn more, visit calgarychamber.com/small-business.