First business opens as part of largest First-Nation-led economic development projects in Canadian history
Posted July 25, 2025 5:06 pm.
Last Updated July 26, 2025 10:40 am.
One of the largest First-Nation-led economic development projects in Canadian history has reached a major milestone, as Treat One has officially opened Oodena Gas & Convenience, the very first business to open on this 68-hectare site.
With the ribbon cut and gas pumps ready, Oodena Gas & Convenience has opened its doors, with a one-of-a-kind design and a staff that is 96 per cent Indigenous.
“This is very significant for Winnipeg, for Manitobans, and for Canadians,” said Chief Gordon Bluesky, Treaty One.
“The number one thing I will love as I get older is coming by here and watching the rebirth of our people and coming back to what we once were and working toward being self-sustaining, wealthy, and healthy people again.”
The 68-acre parcel, once the site of Kapyong military base, was officially transferred to Treaty One is 2019 after years of negotiations with the federal government.
“What’s being done here is being seen not only in Manitoba, across Canada, but internationally too,” said Ian Bushie, the Minister of Indigenous Economic Development.
National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak added, “It is an inspiration for all First Nations across this country to pursue their own governance model, from returning lands and returning economic development opportunities.”
Now reimaged as Naawi-Oodena or centre of the heart, the gas station is just the beginning, with future plans for housing, education, retail, healthcare, and more.
“You got our gas bar, you’ll have our retail space opening a strip mall shortly within the next year or two, and across the street, you have our 260-unit apartment complex breaking ground as well,” said Chief Bluesky.
The City of Winnipeg is also fully on board, with commitments to not only supporting the Treaty One land but also developing the surrounding area.
“When I am talking about this development, I am not just talking about this gas bar, all of these lands being developed and the vision being realized, need Kenaston Boulevard to be upgraded and these projects to go ahead,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham.
