Become Swákwel Approved
(604) 440-8448
(778) 839-9803
Approved Partner of Swákwel
Build stronger bids.
Partner with Indigenous-owned.
What Is the: Approved Partner of Swákwel Program?
APS is a contractor-focused solution to strengthen participation in Indigenous economic development. Swákwel, officially endorsed by the Squamish Nation presents the Approved Partner of Swákwel (APS) program. It positions contractors as trusted participants in Nation led projects and broader government initiatives that mandate Indigenous engagement. We created APS to give contractors real tools to compete in government and Indigenous-led projects — while building long-term economic partnerships.
Why Contractors Choose APS
Nation-Endorsed Credibility
Backed by the Squamish Nation and designed to reflect real community priorities.
Win More Contracts
Strengthens your Indigenous participation score in RFPs and government bids.
No cost
Less restructuring. Just partnership.
As an Approved Partner of Swákwel
You’ll Receive
A formal APS document showcasing your commitment to Indigenous partnership
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A reference letter outlining your alignment with community goals
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Custom language + visuals for your Indigenous Participation Plans (IPPs) and CSR reporting
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Recognition across our marketing, PR, and social channels
• Indigenous participation plan info checkist
• CSR Statement
• Impact Statements
• Indigenous business compliance & Tips
Why APS is Essential for Forward-Thinking Contractors
The Squamish Nation is rapidly becoming one of the most influential landowners and developers in the Vancouver region, actively reinvesting profits into future development and land acquisition.
The future of construction and development in Metro Vancouver is deeply tied to Indigenous leadership and no one is better positioned than Swákwel to help you access it. The Squamish Nation, alongside MST Development, is not only shaping the skyline but reshaping the economy of the region. With more than $5 billion in projects over the next decade, high-density housing developments like Senáḵw which is 6,000 units. These Nations hold hundreds of hectares of prime real estate across Metro Vancouver, these Nations are the largest landowners and developers in the Lower Mainland.
APS connects you directly to this opportunity
As Nations continue to expand their real estate portfolios and government funds flow into Indigenous housing and infrastructure, the need for reliable, trusted, and verified partners has never been greater.
This is more than compliance, it's a competitive advantage.
You gain the inside track on generational projects that will define Metro Vancouver.
Discover if You’re Business Qualifies to Become APS Certified
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Apply - Fill out the short form below
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Review - We’ll contact you to confirm fit and alignment
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Certify - Get your APS documents + partner recognition
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Win - Use them in your bids, reports, and public messaging