Remarkable acquisition: Four First Nations become majority owners of the Hilton Québec
In January 2025, the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach, the Cree Nation, the Wendat Nation, and the Mi'gmaq of Gespe'gewa'gi joined forces to announce the acquisition of a majority of the Hilton Québec hotel, located in the heart of Québec City. Through the limited partnership Atenro, the four Nations joined forces to complete this landmark transaction, which marks a significant step forward in off-reserve Indigenous economic development.
"Atenro means ‘ being friends' in the Wendat language, reflecting the values of friendship and partnership between the Nations involved. "
The project came about when the InnVest hotel group, then the main shareholder of the Hilton Québec, decided to sell up to 51% of the hotel's shares. InnVest was looking for a long-term partner that shared its vision of sustainable investment and had expressed interest in collaborating with an Indigenous group.
As Louise Nattawappio, Chief of the Naskapi Nation, pointed out, "this acquisition is a concrete example of how First Nations can play a key role in Quebec's economic development while preserving and promoting their unique cultural heritage." This shared feeling by the other signing chiefs "embodies an inspiring message for younger generations, showing that collaboration, ambition, and a common vision can lead to concrete successes that promote financial independence," said Pierre Picard, Grand Chief of the Wendat Nation.
Official photo of Louise Nattawappio, Chief of the Naskapi Nation.
"I was also often told that it was important for the four First Nations to send out the message: look, we are uniting and we have big ambitions," said Christopher Coggan, project manager at Atmacinta Inc., the firm that supported the four First Nations in the transaction.
By becoming majority shareholders, the Nations hope to showcase the cultural richness and traditions of First Nations to visitors. While maintaining the Hilton brand image, the prestigious hotel in downtown Quebec City will gradually incorporate Indigenous elements into its design, art, and cuisine.
"The four groups, InnVest and Hilton definitely want to add an Indigenous touch to the hotel! There are even call-outs to all the different communities to see if any artists are interested in providing artwork for the property," said Christopher Coggan.
From left to right: Pierre Picard, Grand Chief of the Wendat Nation, Mandy Gull-Masty, in her former role as Grand Chief of Eeyou Istchee, Fred Vicaire, President and CEO of Mi'gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation, and James Wolfe, Vice President, Asset Management.
The four groups involved hope that this project, carried out under the Atenro company, will encourage similar initiatives by highlighting the potential of Indigenous partnerships in the hotel and tourism sectors. This achievement is part of a greater effort to promote Indigenous economic development and diversify investment opportunities, based on financial sovereignty, inter-community collaboration, and the promotion of entrepreneurial skills.
The economic benefits generated will be reinvested by the Nations' communitiesinvolved to support new projects and meet their needs, for the benefit of their respective populations.
Indigenous Services Canada is proud to have supported this project through its Community Opportunity Readiness Program.
*Editor's note: Please note that at the time of the transaction, Ms. Mandy Gull-Masty held the position of Grand Chief of Eeyou Istchee. Since May 13, 2025, she held the position of Minister of Indigenous Services.
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