One Bowl

Positioning an Indigenous-led manufacturing and housing solution as a national infrastructure project through federal and provincial political transitions.

Overview

One Bowl, an Indigenous-governed solution for housing, manufacturing, and workforce development, sought to strengthen its presence in Ottawa and establish itself as a national-scale initiative.

To do this, One Bowl needed to build foundational legitimacy, navigate complex multi-departmental funding environments, and establish relationships across several federal and provincial channels. Following the change in federal government in mid-2025, the organization also faced the challenge of rapidly rebuilding political relationships and re-aligning its narrative with new mandate priorities.

Our strategy positioned One Bowl as a nation-building project — not a funding applicant — grounded in Indigenous ownership and capable of addressing remote housing shortages, skilled trades development, and regional economic growth at the same time.

The Outcome

All outcomes below are rewritten to be accurate, non-confidential, and aligned with Homeward’s brand’s voice.

    • National Profile Elevated: One Bowl moved from a promising Northern Ontario initiative to a credible, nationally recognized Indigenous-led solution with growing parliamentary and departmental interest.
    • Federal Visibility Strengthened: The organization gained federal champions and meaningful visibility through strategic communications, including published thought leadership and increased presence in policy conversations.
    • Validated Capital Roadmap: One Bowl developed a clear, government-aligned capital strategy that was vetted with and supported by key federal departments.

  • Continuity Through Political Transition: Following the 2025 transition, One Bowl successfully rebuilt federal relationships and aligned its narrative to new government priorities, restoring strategic momentum.
  • Provincial Momentum Secured: Over $600,000 in Skills Development Fund support was obtained, validating One Bowl as a scalable economic development partner in Northern Ontario.

The Solution

We brought clarity and calm to a complex environment. Our work required navigating multi-jurisdictional funding pathways and shifting political landscapes — a process made possible through principal-led partnership built on trust and respect.

Impact

  • National Credibility: One Bowl gained legitimacy at the national level, with political champions and stronger long-term policy traction.
  • Rebuilt Federal Presence: Rapid relationship rebuilding after the 2025 election restored strong strategic momentum heading into 2026.
  • Clear Pathways to Success: The organization now has multiple, tangible avenues for capital investment and federal partnership opportunities — including Budget 2026 alignment, FedNor pathways, provincial co-investment, and Indigenous-led procurement opportunities.
  • Long-Term Policy Influence: One Bowl is positioned for a leadership role in shaping the next phase of Indigenous-led housing and economic development.

 

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