Vancity's support feeds the appetite for local food and Indigenous culture

“Vancity saw our potential. Its philosophy includes the human factor more than any other financial organization.” -- Remi Caudron, business partner at Salmon n' Bannock.

In 2010, Remi Caudron and Inez Cook launched Salmon n’ Bannock to introduce more people to Aboriginal cuisine. The restaurant presents an Aboriginal experience that also includes First Nations art and music.

Remi and Inez had personally funded the business and needed financing for it to grow. In 2011, Salmon n’ Bannock secured a $21,000 microloan with Vancity. Vancity has also helped the restaurant to grow through promotional campaigns and by hiring the restaurant to cater a major international event.

In addition to financing, Vancity has supported Salmon n’ Bannock in several ways. “One of the best ways we can support our members is by doing business with them,” says Stewart. Accordingly, Salmon n’ Bannock catered a banquet when Vancity hosted the Global Alliance for Banking on Values international conference. During this conference, Vancity’s CEO announced that their loan application had been accepted.

Salmon n’ Bannock hopes to expand across Canada, featuring regional flavours and traditions.