ABOUT FCNQ-ILAGIISAQ
History of the Federation
The first "Eskimo" cooperative in Canada was formed by the Inuit of Kangiqsualujjuaq (George River) in 1959.
They obtained a loan of $12,500 from the federal government which was used to buy fishing equipment. Within two years, cooperatives were operating in Kuujjuaq (Fort Chimo), Kangirsuk (Payne Bay), Puvirnituq (Povungnituk), Port Burwell in the Northwest Territories and Kuujjuarapik (Great Whale River).
La Fédération des coopératives du Nouveau-Québec was incorporated on May 20th, 1967 and four weeks later on June 15th, the organizational meeting was held in Lévis, Québec.
This meeting brought together Inuit and Cree delegates from five communities. At the end of six weeks’ discussion, they had worked out the by-laws of the Federation and established the objectives under which the Federation has operated since that time.
Since 1967, cooperatives have been established in all the Inuit communities of Nunavik, and the cooperative movement has been the most important force in involving the local people in the developments which have occurred.
Mission Statement
Our Values & Vision
As a co-op movement, we empower our members to take an active role in their own development through sustainable social and economic initiatives.
- Promoting and protecting the cooperative model
- Maintaining financial strength and sustainability
- Continuously improving our services to build a stronger co-op movement — now and for the future
Collaboration
We achieve more collectively than we ever could alone.
Integrity & Responsibility
We lead with honesty, accountability, and sound management at every level.
Commitment to Community