Data Sovereignty Training

Dear BCALMA members,

You are invited to join us for the upcoming Data Sovereignty Training, taking place December 7-8, 2026, at the Westin Bayshore Vancouver.
(note, Links to Learning is usually held during this week, but has been postponed until next year. )

To register now, please use this registration link.

About the Training: 
This two-day in-person training has been developed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of Indigenous Data Sovereignty, data governance, and data management. The program is designed to support First Nations in developing the knowledge and tools needed to strengthen their control over their data and implement Indigenous Data Sovereignty practices within their communities/workplaces. The training has been developed in partnership with Shared Value Solutions.

Training dates: December 7-8, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Location: The Westin Bayshore Vancouver, 1601 Bayshore Drive, Vancouver, BC V6G2V4

See the hotel booking information below. 

Training modules will cover

• Introduction to Indigenous Data Sovereignty
• Introduction to Data Governance and Data Management
• Frameworks and Models for Data Governance, Building a Data Governance Policy, and Building a Data Management Strategy. This training offers an opportunity to explore how data governance and management can support First Nations in exercising greater control over their information.

Upon completing the training, participants will have a stronger foundation for implementing Indigenous Data Sovereignty tools and supporting conversations with the appropriate individuals within their communities.

Who Should attend?
This training is open to First Nations staff, leadership, and community partners interested in strengthening Indigenous Data Sovereignty and governance practices. We welcome participants working in administration, communications, lands and environmental management, estates, housing, community planning, records and information management, and other related areas.

Whether you work directly with data or support programs, services, and decision-making within your Nation, this training offers an opportunity to build foundational knowledge, share experiences, and explore practical approaches to strengthening community-led data governance.

No previous experience in data governance or management is required.

We encourage you to join us for this opportunity to learn, connect with colleagues from across First Nations communities, and explore how Indigenous Data Sovereignty can strengthen governance, programs, and services within your Nation. We look forward to welcoming you to Vancouver this December!

Travel & Accommodation: Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel and accommodations.
Westin Bayshore Group Rate: starts at $269/nt + taxes and fee. Please be advised that in case of cancellation, please cancel at least 3 days prior to the arrival to avoid 1 night cancellation charge.

Please use the BCALMA group reservation link to access the negotiated hotel rate.
Hotel Reservation Link: Data Sovereignty Event Hotel Reservation     Book by November 13, 2026

BCALMA Member Travel Sponsorship:
BCALMA members are eligible for travel sponsorship of up to $1,500 per First Nation. More than one participant from a First Nation may register; however, the maximum travel sponsorship available is $1,500 per First Nation. Additional participants may be subject to a registration fee. Not a BCALMA member? First Nations interested in joining BCALMA can contact [email protected] for membership information. Annual membership is $300 per First Nation.

Questions?
For registration, travel sponsorship, accommodation, or other questions, contact [email protected].